Page 41 - Countertrade

SECTION TWO

ENTERPRISE 13

RUSSIA

Moscow

One of the most successful of the VOS enterprises was that of Enterprise
13 based in South Eastern Moscow and run by Alexander Ovtin. It was
established in 1948, shortly after the end of the Second World War, and by
1995 had some 400 employees.

Alexander, who himself is blind, joined the enterprise as Deputy Director in
1973 becoming Director in 1980. At the same time as his elevation to
Director there was some restructuring in the enterprise resulting in job
changes and dismissals. These changes were designed to improve the

operation of the enterprise.

The staff from shop floor to Deputy director held Alexander in high regard.
He was seen as someone who truly appreciates the difficulties faced by
the employees and he sought to do everything in his power to look after
them. He was supported by a close team that had a genuine regard for
the social and welfare needs of the employees and not only an interest in
the ‘bottom line’.