Billionaire Profile
Vitaly Orlov
Global Rank
#1890

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Vitaly Orlov

CEO, Norebo Holding
RU
Real-Time Net Worth
$2.1B
As of December 2025
Age
59
Source
Fisheries
Industry
food-beverage
Citizenship
RU

Biography

Vitaly Orlov, a prominent figure in the global fisheries industry, is the CEO and co-founder of Norebo Holding, the largest vertically integrated seafood company in Russia. Born in Murmansk, Russia, in 1965, Orlov's career is rooted in his childhood in the coastal city and education at the Murmansk Higher Marine Engineering School. He initially gained experience in the seafood trading sector before establishing Ocean Trawlers in 1997 with partners. His business acumen propelled him to the forefront of the Russian fishing industry, with Norebo now catching approximately 400,000 tons of cod, haddock, and pollock annually. Orlov's estimated net worth is $2.1 billion, reflecting his significant achievements in the food and beverage industry. His focus on sustainability and corporate governance has set him apart in the sector, with a commitment to providing employment and training opportunities.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Vitaly Orlov's journey began in Murmansk, a city deeply connected to the sea. His background in the fishing industry stretches back to his childhood and college days under the USSR. He graduated from the Murmansk Higher Marine Engineering School with a Master of Science in Engineering. During his time in school, he spent a year at sea, gaining invaluable experience that would shape his future endeavors.

Rise to Success

After graduating in 1991, Orlov entered a rapidly changing Russia. He saw the potential for a world-class fishing industry and founded Ocean Trawlers in 1997 with Swedish businessman Magnus Roth. In 2007, Orlov and Roth founded Norebo as a purely Russian enterprise. Norebo grew to become the largest vertically integrated seafood company in Russia. Over the years, Norebo has invested significantly in acquiring fishing companies and now catches a substantial amount of fish annually in the Norwegian Sea, Barents Sea, and the Far East.

Key Business Strategies

Norebo's success is attributed to its vertically integrated structure, owning its vessels, directly employing crews, and processing fish at sea or at its facility in Murmansk. This approach allows for greater control over quality, efficiency, and sustainability. Orlov focused on professionalism and high standards, making Norebo a leading supplier to major food companies like Birds Eye and McDonald's. He prioritized transparency and traceability, earning the trust of customers and consumers. In early 2023, Orlov transferred control over Norebo Europe, a wholesale unit based in London, to his son Nikita.

Philanthropy

Beyond business, Orlov has been involved in philanthropic initiatives.

Career Milestones

1997

Founded Ocean Trawlers

Co-founded Ocean Trawlers with Magnus Roth.

2007

Founded Norebo Holding

Co-founded Norebo Holding, a vertically integrated seafood company.

2023

Transferred Control of Norebo Europe

Transferred control of the wholesale unit Norebo Europe to his son Nikita.

Controversies & Challenges

2018

Shareholder Dispute

Was involved in a dispute with former business partner Alexander Tugushev over shareholding in Norebo, leading to legal battles in London.