What I'm primarily responsible for is products. Everything is developed with my personal involvement. Second is client communication. Everything to do with product and consumer is my primary focus. I also deal with everything which relates to investment and partnership. Distribution, finance, administration, I don't do.

In this quote, Roustam Tariko, the founder of Russian Standard vodka, outlines his clear approach to running his business. He emphasizes that his primary responsibility lies in the development of products, stating that he is personally involved in every aspect of product creation. This reflects his hands-on leadership style and his commitment to ensuring that the products meet the standards he envisions for his brand. Innovation and quality control are clearly central to his role in the company.

Another key aspect of Tariko's quote is his focus on client communication. He acknowledges that maintaining strong relationships with customers is essential to the success of his business. By prioritizing interactions that connect the product to the consumer, he ensures that the brand stays aligned with market demands and remains relevant in a competitive industry. Tariko's focus on this area suggests a customer-first approach to business.

However, Tariko makes it clear that he does not involve himself in areas like distribution, finance, or administration. This distinction highlights his understanding of his strengths and areas of focus. By concentrating on the aspects of the business that he is most passionate about—product development and client communication—he is able to delegate other tasks to professionals with expertise in those fields.

Overall, Tariko’s quote reflects his strategic approach to leadership, where he takes a hands-on role in product and client-related matters while allowing others to handle more operational aspects. His method underscores the importance of focusing on what drives a business forward while relying on a capable team for other critical functions.