Is Leonid Mikhelson Jewish?

Leonid Mikhelson is a prominent Russian billionaire businessman, best known as the CEO and major shareholder of Novatek, a leading natural gas producer in Russia.

Leonid Mikhelson was born on August 11, 1955, in Kaspiysk, Dagestan, Russia. He graduated from the Samara Institute of Civil Engineering in 1977, specializing in Industrial Civil Engineering.

Leonid Mikhelson is known to keep his personal life private. He is married and has a daughter. He is also an avid art collector and supports various cultural initiatives.

Leonid Mikhelson began his career as a foreman at a construction and assembly company. He later became the CEO of Novatek and played a crucial role in its growth to become one of Russia's largest natural gas producers. He has also been involved in various other ventures, including the petrochemical company Sibur.

Leonid Mikhelson has been instrumental in expanding Novatek's operations and increasing its market share in the global natural gas industry. Under his leadership, Novatek launched the Yamal LNG project, a significant milestone for the company.

Leonid Mikhelson has largely managed to stay out of the public eye regarding scandals. However, like many Russian oligarchs, his business practices and wealth accumulation have been subjects of scrutiny in international media.

Leonid Mikhelson is a well-known patron of the arts. He founded the V-A-C Foundation, which supports contemporary art and cultural projects in Russia and internationally. The foundation has hosted numerous exhibitions and cultural events.