Oleg Belozerov Secures Five More Years as Russian Railways CEO After Record Growth

Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin has reappointed Oleg Belozerov as CEO and Chairman of Russian Railways (RZD) for another five-year term. The decision follows a year of strong financial performance, with the company reporting record figures in revenue, passenger numbers, and freight traffic.

Belozerov, who has led RZD since 2015, brings decades of experience in transport and infrastructure to the role. His reappointment comes as the company continues to expand its operations across Russia.

Belozerov's career in public and corporate transport spans over two decades. Before joining RZD, he served as head of the Federal Road Agency (Rosavtodor) from 2004 to 2009. He later became Deputy Transport Minister, a position he held until 2015. A graduate of St. Petersburg University of Economics and Finance, he has long been involved in shaping Russia's transport policies.

Under his leadership, RZD achieved significant growth in 2025. Total revenue climbed by 9.5%, reaching 3.1 trillion rubles ($33.5 billion). The company's net profit stood at 14.1 billion rubles ($152 million), while total assets rose by 6.4%, exceeding 11 trillion rubles ($119 billion). Passenger traffic also hit a milestone, surpassing 1.3 billion riders—the highest since 2006. Freight operations saw similar success, with volumes reaching 2.48 trillion ton-kilometres. The Eastern Operating Domain recorded its best-ever performance in freight traffic. Despite these gains, RZD announced cost-cutting measures in March. The company plans to reduce its administrative workforce by 15%, affecting around 6,000 employees. The move aims to streamline operations amid ongoing expansion.

Belozerov's reappointment extends his tenure at RZD until at least 2031. The company's latest financial results highlight its dominance in Russia's rail sector, with record-breaking passenger and freight figures. Meanwhile, the planned staff reductions suggest a focus on efficiency as the company moves forward.