Almaz Alsenov is an entrepreneur, philanthropist, and former professional judoka. His journey from athlete to businessman exemplifies a blend of discipline and acumen, influencing his leadership style and philanthropic efforts.
He founded Harvest Group SA, a global agricultural distribution company, specialising in food sustainability. As CEO, he has excelled in managing supply chains through personalised logistics, financial services, and strategic partnerships with reputable growers and logistics providers.
Almaz's judo career includes significant achievements. He holds a 5th Dan Black Belt and was a member of the Kazakhstan National Judo Team from 1997 to 2004, winning multiple national championships. His international accolades feature a bronze medal at the 2000 Asian Junior Championships and a gold medal at the Under-21 International Masters in Bremen, Germany.
The principles of judo—adaptability, efficiency, and respect—are integral to Almaz’s business philosophy. He emphasises that both judo and commodity trading require this mindset, which has been pivotal in navigating...Almaz Alsenov is an entrepreneur, philanthropist, and former professional judoka. His journey from athlete to businessman exemplifies a blend of discipline and acumen, influencing his leadership style and philanthropic efforts.
He founded Harvest Group SA, a global agricultural distribution company, specialising in food sustainability. As CEO, he has excelled in managing supply chains through personalised logistics, financial services, and strategic partnerships with reputable growers and logistics providers.
Almaz's judo career includes significant achievements. He holds a 5th Dan Black Belt and was a member of the Kazakhstan National Judo Team from 1997 to 2004, winning multiple national championships. His international accolades feature a bronze medal at the 2000 Asian Junior Championships and a gold medal at the Under-21 International Masters in Bremen, Germany.
The principles of judo—adaptability, efficiency, and respect—are integral to Almaz’s business philosophy. He emphasises that both judo and commodity trading require this mindset, which has been pivotal in navigating global trade complexities and fostering a corporate culture rooted in respect.
Transitioning to administration, Almaz served as Marketing Director and Executive Committee Member of the Judo Union of Asia, and as an Advisory Board Member of the European Judo Union. He was later appointed Adviser to the President of the International Judo Federation, solidifying his influence in the sport.
Almaz’s commitment to judo extends to philanthropy. He established the JENYS Judo Club, Kazakhstan's first professional judo club, promoting judo in the country and organising international tournaments like the "Jenys Cup." In recognition of his contributions, Almaz was awarded the Order of Kurmet in 2024.
Almaz earned a bachelor's Degree in Management and Economics from the Eurasian Humanities Institute and later, an MBA in Corporate Management at Almaty Management University.READ MOREVIEW LESS
Harvest Group SA is a Swiss management company specialising in international commodity trading. The company has rapidly expanded its operations by forming strategic partnerships with local and international leaders in the commodity sector, enhancing its global presence.
The Judo Union of Asia (JUA) oversees and advocates for judo throughout Asia, organizing significant regional competitions, creating training programs, and assisting national federations to foster the sport's development and competitive success.
Jenys Judo Club, the first professional judo club in Kazakhstan, was established by entrepreneur and former judoka, Almaz Alsenov to honor his father, Jenys Kamenovich Alsenov. The club has achieved significant success, including winning a bronze medal at the 2023 Jenys Cup in Almaty.
Almaz currently holds the title of Commissioner for Commercial Partnerships and Promotions within the IJF. This role was created with a focus on the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
The International Judo Federation (IJF) governs and manages worldwide judo competitions, sets the rules, advocates for the educational principles of judo, and fosters the sport's growth in over 200 national federations.
The European Judo Union (EJU) oversees and coordinates judo events throughout Europe, establishes coaching and referee guidelines, advocates for judo’s educational principles, and assists national federations in advancing the sport at every level.
Harvest Group SA sponsors the International Judo Federation globally, the Swiss Judo & the Ju-Jitsu Federation, as well as Kazakhstan’s first professional judo club, Jenys.
The International Judo Federation (IJF), founded in 1951, governs global judo competitions, including the Olympics and World Championships. It promotes the sport's core values of discipline, respect, and perseverance across more than 200 national federations.
The Order of Kurmet is awarded to citizens who have made notable contributions to the economy, social sector, science, culture, and education, as well as for outstanding service in government agencies and active involvement in social initiatives.
The EY Entrepreneur Of The Year awards honours exceptional business leaders who drive innovation and contribute to economic growth. Winners are selected through a comprehensive evaluation of their influence, leadership qualities, and financial success.
