The name Yandex originated from a concept conceived by Ilya Segalovich, who derived the term from the phrase Yet Another iNDEX. As a foundational figure in Russian technology, he served as the company’s chief technology officer and director from 2000 until his death in 2013, shaping the development of one of the country's most significant search engines.
Early Education and Professional Beginnings
Born in 1964 in Nizhny Novgorod, Segalovich attended the National School of Physics and Math between 1977 and 1981. He continued his academic training at the Russian State Geological Prospecting University from 1981 to 1986, where he obtained a degree in geophysics. His early career in information retrieval began in 1990 at the Arkadia Company, where he led a software team. This role preceded his tenure at CompTek International, where he managed the retrieval systems department from 1993 until 2000.
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In 2000, Segalovich transitioned from CompTek to co-found Yandex alongside his longtime schoolmate, Arkady Volozh. Throughout his leadership as CTO, the firm established its position as a dominant search platform. The company's financial profile evolved over time; by the time of its initial public offering, Segalovich held a stake that saw his wealth fluctuate in market estimations. While 2011 Forbes rankings once placed his net worth at $600 million, subsequent internal reports clarified his holding at 2.9 percent of the company, valued at $233 million.
Philanthropic Engagement and Final Years
Beyond his corporate duties, Segalovich was a primary supporter of Maria's Children Art Rehabilitation Center, an organization dedicated to orphans and children with special needs. He notably utilized proceeds from his Yandex stake, including $20.5 million generated during the IPO, to fund charitable efforts. In July 2013, reports confirmed his death following complications from stomach cancer. He passed away in London at the age of 49 and was later interred at the Troyekurovskoye cemetery.
Fast facts
- Born: 1964, Nizhny Novgorod
- Died: 2013, London
- Education: Russian State Geological Prospecting University
- Role: Co-founder and CTO of Yandex
- Professional start: Arkadia Company, 1990
- Final stake in Yandex: 2.5 percent
- Burial location: Troyekurovskoye cemetery
Questions readers ask
What does the name Yandex stand for?
The name is derived from the phrase Yet Another iNDEX.
What was the cause of Ilya Segalovich's death?
He died in 2013 due to complications from stomach cancer.
Achievements
- Educated at Russian State Geological Prospecting University and National School of Physics and Math
- Worked as entrepreneur, chief technology officer and programmer
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