Billionaire Profile
Rustem Sulteev
Global Rank
#1904

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Rustem Sulteev

CEO, TAIF Group
RU
Real-Time Net Worth
$2B
As of December 2025
Age
71
Source
Refinery, chemicals
Industry
energy
Citizenship
RU

Biography

Rustem Sulteev is a prominent Russian businessman and billionaire known for his significant contributions to the energy and petrochemical industries. Born in Kazan, Russia, in 1954, Sulteev holds a Master of Science in Engineering from the Kazan Institute of Civil Engineering. His career began in construction, transitioning to civil engineering before entering the business world. Sulteev is the co-owner of the TAIF Group, a major regional holding company with assets in oil, gas, and petrochemicals, and he is a shareholder of PJSC SIBUR Holding and Avers Bank. His net worth is estimated at $2.0 billion as of 2024, reflecting his significant influence in the Russian business landscape. Sulteev's involvement in sectors that generate revenue for the Russian government has led to scrutiny and sanctions.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life and Education

Rustem Sulteev was born in Kazan, Tatarstan, Russia, in 1954. He graduated from the Kazan Institute of Civil Engineering in 1976 with a bachelor's degree. He later obtained a Master of Science in Engineering from the same institution.

Rise to Success

Sulteev began his career as a construction foreman, transitioning into civil engineering in 1983. He held various positions, including construction and maintenance for the Department of Bread and Baking Industry, Deputy General Director for the construction of the second Bakery Plant in Kazan, and Deputy Head of the Directorate for Centrogaz. In 1992, he became the Deputy General Director of the Kazan Foreign Trade Research and Production Association, serving until 1995. In 1995, he was appointed First Deputy General Director of the TAIF Group.

Key Business Strategies

Sulteev is the co-owner of the TAIF Group, a major player in the oil, gas, and petrochemical sectors. TAIF Group became a shareholder in most of its companies during Russia's privatization in the mid-1990s. Sulteev's strategic vision and leadership have driven the company's growth and success. In 2021, TAIF merged with petrochemical company Sibur. He also co-owns Kazan's Avers bank.

Philanthropy

Rustem Sulteev is known for his commitment to family and his passion for philanthropy. He actively supports various charitable initiatives and cultural projects in Kazan and beyond.

Career Milestones

1976

Graduated

Graduated from the Kazan Institute of Civil Engineering with a bachelor's degree.

1983

Civil Engineer

Transitioned into civil engineering.

1995

First Deputy General Director

Appointed First Deputy General Director of TAIF Group.

Controversies & Challenges

2010

Detention

Briefly detained on suspicion of embezzlement, but later released without charge.

2016

Panama Papers

Named in the Panama Papers for using offshore companies to invest in properties.

2023

Sanctions

Sanctioned by the European Union due to involvement in sectors that generate revenue for the Russian government.