ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the changes in the status of directors of defense enterprises and on shifts in their relationship to the state in the context of the transition to a market economy. Russia's success or failure in its transition to the market depends mainly on changes in the status of many social actors in the current socio-economic networks. Enterprise directors are one of the main actors during this transition period. To give one example, the state has virtually neglected its duty to carry out much needed restructuring in the defense industry, a procedure that cannot be conducted 'at grassroots level'. Directors of defense enterprises have been powerful actors in the Russian economy during the post-Soviet period. A 'multi-role' phenomenon has emerged within the framework of the position of directors. This phenomenon includes five different executive roles, from hired manager to official and unofficial proprietor.
