Igor Fishelev is a prominent Russian entrepreneur, celebrated for his pioneering efforts in the metalworking equipment industry and his commitment to driving technological advancements in industrial sectors. With a career that spans decades, Fishelev has made a significant mark on Russia’s machinery landscape, transitioning from founding Unimatic to spearheading initiatives in cutting-edge high-tech fields.
Born in 1963, Igor Fishelev graduated from the Faculty of Physics at Ural State University, before continuing his studies at the Institute of Metal Physics of the Russian Academy of Sciences. His academic background in physics and metallurgy laid a solid foundation for his future ventures. In 1991, Fishelev co-founded Link Public Company, one of the pioneering publicly traded joint-stock companies in Sverdlovsk (now Yekaterinburg). Serving as Vice President, he was instrumental in shaping the company’s investment strategies and foreign trade activities, which played a key role in the company’s early success.
In 1994, Fishelev joined Mitsui & Co. Ltd., a major Japanese multinational conglomerate, where he worked at the company's office in Yekaterinburg. By 1995, he was appointed head of the office, managing various international trade operations, including export of Russian natural resources and import of industrial machinery. His time at Mitsui not only deepened his understanding of global trade but also expanded his international network, laying the groundwork for his future entrepreneurial ventures.
In 2000, Fishelev founded Unimatic (originally named Stankoproject), a company that swiftly became a leader in the Russian metalworking equipment supply and service sector. Through strategic collaborations with renowned global brands like Mori Seiki and EMCO, Unimatic quickly established itself, providing advanced machinery to over 300 companies across Russia and the CIS. Fishelev’s visionary leadership was critical to the company’s rapid growth. In 2015, Unimatic entered a joint venture with the Austrian company EMCO, forming EMSO-Rus, which enhanced production capabilities and solidified the company’s market position. In 2018, Fishelev passed the reins of Unimatic to his son, Oleg
Through his work with Unimatic and other high-tech initiatives, Igor Fishelev has left an indelible legacy in both the metalworking industry and the broader technological landscape. His business acumen, paired with his deep industry knowledge, continues to shape his contributions to the Russian economy and beyond.
1. Cultivate a Growth Mindset
A growth mindset — the belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication and hard work — is crucial for any entrepreneur. Entrepreneurs with a growth mindset don’t see challenges as obstacles but as opportunities for growth. They understand that every experience, whether positive or negative, teaches them something valuable.
This mindset encourages constant learning, adaptation, and improvement. It’s not about being perfect from the start; it’s about being willing to grow and evolve as you go. Whether it’s reading a book, attending seminars, or simply learning from others, always be open to new ideas and feedback.
2. Build a Strong Network
One of the most valuable resources an entrepreneur can have is a strong network of contacts. Building relationships with people in your industry and related fields is crucial for gaining insights, advice, and opportunities.
I’ve always believed in the power of surrounding yourself with the right people. Your network should include mentors, peers, and even competitors who can challenge you to think differently and help you grow. The right network not only offers business opportunities but also provides emotional support during tough times.
3. Learn to Adapt Quickly
In the fast-paced world of entrepreneurship, change is inevitable. Markets, technologies, customer preferences, and regulations can shift overnight, and those who thrive are the ones who can adapt quickly.
As an entrepreneur, I’ve had to pivot multiple times, sometimes completely shifting the direction of my business. Adaptability means being flexible with your approach, learning to spot new opportunities, and staying open-minded. Being able to pivot when needed is often what separates successful businesses from those that stagnate.
Conclusion
The psychology of success isn’t just about having the right tools or resources — it’s about having the right mindset. Cultivating an entrepreneurial mindset requires commitment to personal growth, resilience in the face of setbacks, and the ability to see challenges as opportunities. By taking responsibility for your decisions, embracing risk, and focusing on long-term growth, you can build a mindset that will help you succeed in any business endeavor.
Remember, success in entrepreneurship is as much about your inner attitude as it is about your external strategies. When you learn to think like an entrepreneur, you’ll unlock your potential to achieve great things — not just in business, but in life.