Early Life
Petro Oleksiyovych Poroshenko was born on September 26, 1965, in Bolhrad, Ukrainian SSR (now Ukraine). His father was an engineer and government official. Poroshenko studied at the Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, where he earned a degree in economics and international relations in 1989. During his studies, he was involved in business, supplying cocoa beans.
Rise to Success
Poroshenko's business career began after the fall of the Soviet Union. He founded the Ukrprominvest company, which later acquired and consolidated several confectionery factories. In 1996, he established Roshen Confectionery Corporation, which grew to become one of Eastern Europe's largest confectionery manufacturers. He also expanded his business interests into other sectors, including shipbuilding and media.
Key Business Strategies
Roshen's success can be attributed to several key strategies. These include the acquisition and modernization of existing factories, the development of a wide range of confectionery products, and strategic export initiatives across Europe, North America, and Asia. Poroshenko also focused on maintaining high-quality standards and adapting to international markets, allowing Roshen to become a major player in the global confectionery industry.
Philanthropy
Poroshenko, through the Petro Poroshenko Charity Foundation, has supported various initiatives. In the past, Roshen funded the construction and maintenance of numerous playgrounds for children across Ukraine. During his presidency and since, he and his foundation have provided significant support to the Ukrainian Armed Forces, including essential supplies and equipment.
