Construction Management No. 155, an entity Mikhail Balakin directed starting in 1990, became the foundation for a sprawling business empire that ultimately encompassed over 80 industrial and construction firms. Born in 1961 in Serpukhov, Balakin moved from operational roles in civil engineering to the upper echelons of both Russian commerce and municipal government during a period of significant urban transformation.
Professional Foundations and Rise
Balakin pursued his education at the Kuibyshev Moscow State University of Civil Engineering, specializing in heat and gas supply and ventilation. Following his graduation, he progressed through the ranks from master to chief engineer over eight years. In 1993, he secured his position as co-owner and general director of the firm known as SU-155 as it transitioned into a publicly traded company.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Municipal Administration and Urban Development
Between 2000 and 2005, Balakin served in the Moscow mayor’s office. His responsibilities included the construction of municipal projects and the renovation of substandard housing. During his tenure, the city saw the remodeling of prominent sites including the MGU Library, the Square of Europe near the Kiyevsky railway station, the Moscow International House of Music, and the new stage for the Bolshoi Theatre. He left this government role in 2005 to return to the chairmanship of the SU-155 Group.
Commercial Scale and Political Involvement
Under his leadership, SU-155 experienced notable growth, with 2013 revenues reaching 114.2 billion roubles. Balakin also participated in the financial sector as a shareholder of NS Bank until divesting in April 2013. His political career included an election to the Moscow City Duma in 2014, representing the 38th constituency after receiving 46% of the vote. In 2018, he campaigned for the office of Mayor of Moscow, ultimately securing 42,192 votes.
Recognition and Awards
Balakin received various state and religious honors for his contributions to the Russian construction industry and public life. These include the Order of Honour and the title of Honored Builder of the Russian Federation. Furthermore, he has been recognized by the Russian Orthodox Church, receiving the Order of Holy Prince Daniel of Moscow 3rd class, the Order of St. Seraphim of Sarov, and a Russian Federation Presidential Certificate of Honour.
Fast facts
- Born: 1961, Serpukhov
- Education: Moscow State University of Civil Engineering
- Major Company: SU-155
- Political Party: Liberal Democratic Party
- Awards: Order of Honour, Honored Builder of the Russian Federation
- Languages: Russian
Questions readers ask
Did Mikhail Balakin hold positions in the Moscow government?
Yes, he worked in the Moscow mayor’s office from 2000 to 2005 managing municipal construction and housing renovation projects.
What was his role in the SU-155 company?
He served as the director, then co-owner and general director, and eventually became the chairman of the group.
Achievements
- Order of Honour
- Order of Holy Prince Daniel of Moscow 3rd class
- Order of St. Seraphim of Sarov
- Educated at Moscow State University of Civil Engineering
.jpg)