Retired logistics general takes helm of Ukrainian defense conglomerate

Ukrainian Defense Industry (Ukroboronprom), the state-owned defense conglomerate, has appointed retired General Oleh Huliak as its new Chief Executive Officer, the company’s press service announced on 21 October.

Ukroboronprom is a joint-stock company that unites 130+ state-owned multi-profile enterprises across various sectors of Ukraine’s defense industry. Following Russia’s 2022 full-scale invasion of Ukraine, had to relocate some of its production abroad, and has tightly partnered with multiple Western firms – such as Rheinmetall – to enhance domestic military production and meet battlefield demands amid the ongoing war.

The appointment reportedly follows an extensive search and evaluation process conducted by Odgers Berndtson, an international executive search firm. More than 20 candidates were considered for the position, with three finalists making it to the shortlist. The supervisory board conducted final interviews with these candidates, ultimately selecting Huliak for the role.

David Lomjaria, chairman of the Ukroboronprom supervisory board, emphasized the importance of Huliak’s military background, stating,

“It is extremely important for us that the largest state defense company is headed by a person who has experience working in the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine and as head of the logistics direction of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.”

Huliak’s military career spans over three decades, beginning in 1993. He served in various positions, including deputy commander of a reconnaissance company in an airmobile division, and participated in the Russian-Ukrainian war before the full-scale invasion. From 2021 to 2024, Huliak held the position of Commander of the Logistics Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

Prior to his appointment as CEO, Huliak had been working as an advisor on military cooperation to the general director of Ukroboronprom since 1 July 2024. Before being confirmed as the permanent CEO on 21 October 2024, he initially assumed the role of acting general director on 4 September 2024, replacing Herman Smetanin who took over the Ministry of Strategic Industries.

The selection process for the new CEO reportedly involved representatives from the US, UK, and German embassies in the final interviews with shortlisted candidates.

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