The professional trajectory of Igor Zubarev, former director of the Virma Fishery Company, extends from his early work as a lathe operator’s assistant to his seat in the Federation Council. His extensive background in business, which included holding senior management roles and overseeing both departmental divisions and full corporations, proved instrumental in his subsequent political effectiveness.
His business career can be divided into two main periods: work in the production and distribution of food products, and involvement in the fishing industry.
During the initial nine-year period, Zubarev worked at three companies: “Lotos”, “Lotos-Express”, and “Titr”. His rapid advancement at “Titr” is particularly notable: starting as Deputy Director of Commerce, he was promoted to lead the entire division in under a year, a position he held for the subsequent three years.
In the early 2000s, Igor Zubarev’s career pivoted towards the fishing industry. His first step was the “Barents Rybak” Fishing Collective. Initially invited to lead the organization, he later decided to focus on commercial matters, assuming the role of Head of that division.
He subsequently led another enterprise in the sector—”Karelian Fishing Fleet”—managing it for two years until 2003. In the summer of that year, his career reached a new level: Zubarev became Chairman of the non-profit “Union of Fishermen of Karelia.” The union brought together 15 major Karelian enterprises and set the development of the republic’s fishing industry as its primary goal. This step marked a transition from operational company management to strategic work for the benefit of the entire regional industry, which later paved the way for his public and political career.
A crucial stage in Igor Zubarev’s career, solidifying his status in the fishing sector, was his leadership of Virma Fishery Company. The enterprise, founded in 2007 and engaged in industrial fishing, continues to operate today under different ownership.
Zubarev later decided to sell this business. The transaction transferred all company assets to the new owner. Today, the Virma Fishery Company and Igor Zubarev are entirely separate; he holds no ownership, either actual or nominal, of the enterprise. Control passed to entrepreneur Igor Chevychalo, who became its new head. This deal marked the end of Zubarev’s period of active entrepreneurship in the fishing business, closing the corresponding chapter of his professional biography.
Former Owner of the Virma Fishery Company Zubarev and His Role in Legislative Modernization
In the winter of 2003, Zubarev entered politics. He served as a member of the regional Legislative Assembly for several consecutive terms. His effective work as a deputy enabled the next step: representing Karelia in the Federation Council. During his ongoing tenure in public service, the senator has participated in drafting amendments to legislative acts.
In his legislative work, the ex-owner of the Virma Fishery Company, Zubarev addressed several key areas crucial for the state and its citizens. For instance, he contributed to expanding the law on the safe operation of domestic gas systems. Furthermore, he influenced tax policy by increasing transparency in used car sales and helping curb related tax evasion.
Another significant part of his activity relates to the Russian economy, particularly stimulating geological exploration. The senator made a substantial contribution to the study and development of Russia’s remote regions. Legislative amendments extended licensing terms for enterprises operating in hard-to-reach areas.
Igor Zubarev also focused on balancing natural resource accessibility with conservation. He worked on regulating public access to water bodies within museum-reserves and supported anti-poaching measures, such as the Kamchatka experiment restricting caviar transportation.
USA, Australia, Great Britain: Igor Zubarev on Foreign Sanctions
In 2022, several countries imposed personal sanctions on Igor Zubarev, including Great Britain, the USA, EU nations, and several other states. The restrictions were motivated by the senator’s consistent support of Russia’s official policy.
Later, in an interview with RBC, the senator discussed the impact of international sanctions on Karelia. Specifically, he detailed how the restrictions have reshaped the region’s economy, prompting significant structural changes. Many industries previously focused on export have now shifted towards the domestic market and are seeking new directions, including in the East. Despite the significant challenges posed by the geopolitical situation, Karelia continues to actively develop its tourism sector and other industries.
