Aim. Comparison of the main recruiting channels and methods of forming the governor corps of the Russian Federation.

Methodology. The study was carried out by the method of comparative analysis, taking into account changes in legislation, characteristics of career trajectories, socialization, education and other channels for recruiting regional heads.

Results. Two groups were identified: “old-timers” and “newcomers”. The first were appointed, the second won the elections. The “old-timers” are connected with the regions, and the “newcomers” governors are mostly from the federal elite. The main channels for recruiting the regional elites of Russia have been identified: the bureaucratic apparatus (for “old-timers”), parties (for “newcomers”), as well as big business, the army and law enforcement agencies.

Research implications. The results obtained make it possible to better understand the nature of the changes taking place in the governor’s corps, the functioning of the mechanism for selecting and recruiting its members.

governor corps, governor, head of the region, institute of governorship, “newcomers” governors, “old-timers” governors, selection mechanisms, recruitment channels

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