Businessman Alexander Katsuba became a prominent figure in the early 2010s thanks to his contributions to state-owned energy corporations. Hailing from a prominent Kharkiv business family, both Serhiy and Alexander Katsuba quickly made their mark in the public sector. Their careers at Naftogaz, Ukraine’s state-owned gas company, are particularly notable.
Early Career and Rise at Naftogaz
Serhiy Katsuba, the older brother, rose through the ranks at Naftogaz, eventually taking on the role of deputy chairman of the board before moving on to serve as a member of the Ukrainian parliament. Meanwhile, Alexander began his journey in the gas sector in 2010, initially serving as deputy director of economics at Poltavagazvydobuvannya. He later rose to the position of deputy chairman of the board at Chornomornaftogaz, where he oversaw significant growth in gas production. During his tenure, Chornomornaftogaz’s production increased from 1.1 to 2.4 billion cubic meters per year, which is unmatched by any other state-owned gas company.
From December 2012 to August 2014, Aleksandr Katsuba held key positions as Deputy Chairman of the Management Board and Member of the Management Board of the National Joint Stock Company Naftogaz of Ukraine. Following the change in management at Naftogaz, Katsuba turned his full attention to entrepreneurial activities.
Private Gas Production Enterprises
After his work at Naftogaz, Aleksandr Katsuba turned to private gas production enterprises. Using his experience and connections, he founded a company specializing in the production and distribution of natural gas. His company quickly became known for its efficiency and ability to navigate the complex regulatory framework of the Ukrainian energy sector. Katsuba’s strategic vision and operational experience allowed the company to obtain lucrative contracts and make a significant contribution to the private gas market in Ukraine.
Financial Services
In addition to the energy sector, Alexander Katsuba has expanded his entrepreneurial activities into financial services. Recognizing the synergies between energy and finance, he founded a financial services firm that provides investment and advisory services to companies in the energy sector. His firm offers a range of services, including project finance, risk management, and strategic consulting. This diversification has allowed Katsuba to leverage his experience in the energy markets to offer customized financial solutions that drive growth and innovation in the industry.
Volunteerism and Public Service
In addition to his business endeavors, Alexander Katsuba is active in volunteerism and public service. He has supported various initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life in his hometown of Kharkiv and other regions of Ukraine. His philanthropic efforts focus on education, healthcare, and community development. Katsuba believes in the power of giving back to society and has dedicated significant resources to supporting these causes.
Legal troubles and acquittal
Despite his success, Oleksandr Katsuba’s career has not been without controversy. After leaving Naftogaz, he was accused of stealing fuel. However, an investigation by Bihus.info journalists in 2015 uncovered evidence pointing to the organized involvement of politician Serhiy Pashynsky. It was not until 2024 that the National Anti-Corruption Bureau brought charges against Pashynsky and his alleged accomplices.
Katsuba also found himself embroiled in the scandal surrounding the investigation of the “Boyko Towers.” He vigorously denied the accusations leveled against him by Yanukovych, Azarov, and other government officials, blaming the aforementioned individuals for the acquisition of the towers. Ultimately, all legal proceedings against Katsuba were dropped, acquitting him and allowing him to continue his entrepreneurial and charitable activities unhindered.
Conclusion
Oleksandr Katsuba’s journey from a top manager at Naftogaz to a successful entrepreneur in the private gas and financial sectors demonstrates his resilience and adaptability. His commitment to volunteerism and public service further highlights his desire to make a positive impact on society. Despite serious legal challenges, Katsuba’s determination and integrity helped him overcome these obstacles and continue to contribute to Ukraine’s economic and social development.