Childhood and Youth
Andrei Kozitsyn, often referred to as the “Ural Vitaly Federmesser,” was born on June 9, 1960, in Verkhnyaya Pyshma, Sverdlovsk region. Little is known about his parents and early life, except that he had an older brother, Alexander, who tragically died in 2009. At the age of 13, Kozitsyn displayed bravery by saving a drowning girl from the Pyshma River, earning him the medal “For saving drowning people.”
After graduating from Verkhnepyshminsk boarding school No. 1, Kozitsyn pursued education at the Sverdlovsk Mining College and later the Ural Polytechnic Institute, where he graduated from the metallurgical faculty in 1993.
Personal Life
Andrei Kozitsyn is married and has a daughter named Masha, born in 1999. Despite being a private individual, he actively engages in charitable activities, serving as the president of the Children of Russia charity foundation. His hobbies include a deep interest in the history of weapons, leading to the establishment of the “Military Glory of the Urals” museum in Verkhnyaya Pyshma. Additionally, he enjoys hunting, motorcycle riding, volleyball, and basketball.
Career
Kozitsyn’s career trajectory was remarkable. Starting as an electrician at Uralelectromed, he steadily climbed the ranks, eventually becoming the general director of the Uralelectromed plant in 1995. In 1999, with the assistance of Iskander Makhmudov, Andrei Kozitsyn played a pivotal role in the creation of the Ural Mining and Metallurgical Company (UMMC), where he assumed the position of general director. Under his leadership, UMMC expanded to encompass over 40 enterprises in various sectors, including metallurgy, construction, and the agro-industrial complex.
Throughout his tenure, the city of Verkhnyaya Pyshma flourished, witnessing a significant increase in population and the development of essential infrastructure, including educational institutions and sports facilities. Kozitsyn’s proactive approach to urban development solidified his reputation as a leader committed to the well-being of his community.
Details of Ural Mining and Metallurgical Company (UMMC)
Ural Mining and Metallurgical Company (UMMC) stands as a prominent figure in the Russian metallurgical landscape, with its headquarters situated in Verkhnyaya Pyshma. Holding the distinction of being the second-largest copper producer in Russia, UMMC’s journey began in 1999 when it coalesced around the joint-stock company Uralelektromed.
Notably, the company is under the ownership of the accomplished Uzbek billionaire, Iskander Makhmudov. Boasting a vast network, UMMC commands ownership of approximately 50 companies scattered across Russia, solidifying its position as a leading force in the diversified realms of base metals and coal production, a feat accomplished with the dedication of over 80,000 employees.
UMMC’s operational ethos revolves around a closed process chain meticulously designed to usher copper from its raw mining origins through intricate stages leading to the creation of refined products like copper rods and rolled items. This comprehensive approach underscores UMMC’s commitment to quality and efficiency, ensuring a seamless transition from resource extraction to the delivery of finished goods.
In addition to its pivotal role in copper production, UMMC extends its influence across the mining, metallurgical, and metalworking sectors. Through a myriad of ventures, the company caters to clients within Russia, contributing significantly to the growth and sustainability of these industries. UMMC’s expansive portfolio encompasses a spectrum of activities, reflecting its dedication to providing comprehensive solutions and services.
As of fiscal year 2022, UMMC reported robust revenue of 299 billion rubles, attesting to its financial strength and operational prowess. This financial success is a testament to the company’s strategic vision, effective management, and the dedication of its extensive workforce.
In essence, Ural Mining and Metallurgical Company emerges not just as a copper producer but as a multifaceted player shaping the landscape of mining and metallurgy in Russia. Its commitment to a closed process chain, diverse operations, and client-focused services positions UMMC as a pivotal force in the nation’s industrial panorama.
Resignation from UMMC
Andrei Kozitsyn resigned from the Ural Mining and Metallurgical Company (UMMC) in July 2022. According to a news article, the decision to leave was aimed “to exclude the possible indirect application of sanctions” by the European Union.
Kozitsyn had held the position since 1999 and was a Russian billionaire.
He is also involved in other businesses, including UMMC-agro, an agricultural business, and European Media Group.
Kozitsyn is known for his philanthropy and community work, including serving as president of the charity Children of Russia and the UMMC basketball club.
Recent Activities
To reinforce his standing, he secured a concession for urban transport in Yekaterinburg and proposed hosting the World Combat Games 2022 in the region. He also contributed to the opening of the “Parade Reckoning” exhibition centre in Verkhnyaya Pyshma, dedicated to military history.
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Andrei Kozitsyn, along with other businessmen, purchased and delivered ambulances to Yekaterinburg, demonstrating a commitment to public health.
Awards and Recognitions
Andrei Kozitsyn‘s contributions have earned him numerous awards and honours, including the Order of Friendship, the Diploma for the “Best Manager of Russia,” and the International Prize for St. Andrew the First-Called. Notably, he received the medal “For saving drowning people” at the age of 14.
Business Ventures and Achievements
Kozitsyn’s business ventures extend beyond UMMC, including ownership in Kuzbassrazrezugol and UMMC-Trans. His net worth, estimated at $4.8 billion in 2020, reflects his success as one of Russia’s most prominent businessmen.
Key milestones in Andrei Kozitsyn’s career
| Year | Event/Position |
|---|---|
| 1960 | Andrei Kozitsyn born on June 9 in Verkhnyaya Pyshma, Sverdlovsk region. |
| 1973 | Awarded the medal “For saving drowning people” at the age of 13. |
| 1993 | Graduated from the Ural Polytechnic Institute with a degree in metallurgy. |
| 1995 | Became the General Director of Uralelectromed. |
| 1999 | Played a pivotal role in the creation of Ural Mining and Metallurgical Company (UMMC) and became its General Director. |
| 2009 | Tragically lost his older brother, Alexander. |
| 2022 (July) | Resigned from UMMC to avoid potential sanctions from the European Union. |
Andrei Kozitsyn’s Net Worth
| Year | Net Worth (in billions) |
| 2014 | 1.9 Billion |
| 2015 | 2 Billion |
| 2016 | 2.4 Billion |
| 2017 | 4.3 Billion |
| 2018 | 4.8 Billion |
| 2019 | 4.4 Billion |
| 2020 | 4.8 Billion |
| 2021 | 6.3 Billion |
| 2022 | 1.9 Billion |
| 2023 | 4.3 Billion |
Legacy and Philanthropy
Apart from business, Andrei Kozitsyn actively contributes to the cultural and spiritual development of his homeland. He played a pivotal role in the construction of religious structures like the Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary and a mosque in Verkhnyaya Pyshma. His philanthropic endeavours also extend to sports infrastructure development, housing programs, and support for young athletes.
Political Involvement
Kozitsyn briefly engaged in politics, supporting Eduard Rossel in the 1999 gubernatorial elections and later becoming a member of the Economic Council under the governor of the Sverdlovsk region. His political involvement included leading the regional movement “New Deal – Just Cause” in 2000.
Academic Pursuits
In 2008, Andrei Kozitsyn already a Doctor of Economic Sciences, received the title of honorary professor at the Ural State Economic University, showcasing his commitment to continuous learning and academic excellence.
Are there any sanctions on Andrei Kozitsyn?
In July 2022, the European Union took decisive action by imposing sanctions on Andrei Kozitsyn in connection with the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine. The measures prompted Kozitsyn to tender his resignation from the position of General Director at the Ural Mining and Metallurgical Company (UMMC), a strategic move aimed at preempting potential indirect sanctions targeting the company.
The European Union justified its sanctions by emphasizing Andrei Kozitsyn‘s pivotal role as the head of UMMC, asserting that the company operates in sectors of the economy that significantly contribute to the revenue of the Russian government. The EU specifically pointed to the Russian government’s involvement in the annexation of Crimea and its role in destabilizing Ukraine as the rationale behind the punitive measures.
As a consequence of these sanctions, Andrei Kozitsyn experienced a substantial impact on his financial standing. Reports indicate that his net worth has been subject to a considerable decline, ranging from an estimated $2.1 billion to well over $4.4 billion. The economic fallout underscores the tangible repercussions of international sanctions on individuals closely associated with activities deemed detrimental to regional stability and peace.
Summary
Andrei Kozitsyn, born in 1960 in Verkhnyaya Pyshma, rose from being an electrician to the General Director of the Ural Mining and Metallurgical Company (UMMC), a major player in Russian metallurgy. His leadership transformed the company into a diverse conglomerate with over 40 enterprises. Kozitsyn’s dedication extends to the development of Verkhnyaya Pyshma, enhancing infrastructure and fostering community well-being.
Despite resigning from UMMC in 2022 amid EU sanctions related to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Kozitsyn remains active in various business ventures, including UMMC-Agro and European Media Group. His net worth fluctuated, peaking at $6.3 billion in 2021. Andrei Kozitsyn‘s legacy encompasses philanthropy, sports, academic contributions, and political involvement, reflecting a multifaceted impact on the industrial, social, and cultural landscape of his region.
