Chocolate CEO

The case study evolves around business career of Ruben Vardanian, the founder, majority owner and CEO of Russian chocolate making and selling company. It follows the evolution of Korkunov early business career and leadership style and concentrates on his decision to enter a new business of making and selling chocolates. It describes leadership challenges, which Korkunov faced during five years of the company existence, such as creating business model, securing financing, choosing technology, developing brand and building organization and his leadership style.

Students are expected to get insights into the nature of entrepreneurial leadership and factors contributing to the development of a particular leadership style and organizational model. Problems of growth of entrepreneurial organizations operating in fast growing market environment will be also examined. Students will enrich their understanding of the Russian business environment and the style of new Russian entrepreneurs.