The aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between talent management and absorptive capacity of Russian companies. Specifically, the paper discusses the theoretical framework, which demonstrates how talent attraction, development and retention are related to absorptive capacity dimensions, namely knowledge acquisition and assimilation (referred to as potential absorptive capacity), and knowledge transformation and exploitation (referred to as realized absorptive capacity). The paper suggests a number of testable hypotheses and via multiple linear regression analyzes 60 Russian companies showing the applicability of the proposed framework. Consequently, the research proves the important role of talent management practices, specifically talent development, in developing absorptive capacity dimensions in Russian context.