Gabriel Patru
Creative Business Strategy | Co-Founder MKA
Leading brands prove it—storytelling still reigns in the attention economy. Yet, today’s tales are woven through platforms, tech, and a bit of chaos.
The trick? Marry creativity with algorithms. Great stories aren’t told—they’re co-created, optimized, and, ideally, shared over Wi-Fi. A new canvas, same human craving: connection.
Gabriel Patru is an accomplished Creative Business Strategist with over 18 years of experience in brand strategy, creative development, media, and digital marketing. He studied Communication at Université de Bourgogne, France, and holds a Master’s degree in Strategic Marketing, which underpins his expertise in thoughtful strategic planning and impactful business development.
Gabriel is one of the most sought-after keynote speakers on branding, marketing, and digital marketing, recognized for delivering insightful and engaging presentations that resonate with diverse audiences. He previously served as a Professor at the Faculty of Journalism and Communication Sciences, where he shared his extensive knowledge with aspiring communication professionals.
A strong advocate for sustainability, Gabriel holds a degree in Sustainability Leadership from the University of Cambridge CISL and acts as a Sustainable Brands Ambassador, promoting practices that drive long-term business and societal value.
Over his career, Gabriel has held leadership roles in some of Romania’s most prominent communication groups, including BBDO, LOWE Profero, and WPP, where he collaborated with leading national brands to deliver impactful and innovative campaigns. In the past five years, he served as Marketing Director for the international consultancy network BDO, while also providing direct consultancy to C-level executives across Romania and Europe, helping them achieve transformative business growth through creative and strategic innovation.
As the founder of Motogolan, a premium lifestyle brand, and a former President of IAB Romania, Gabriel consistently demonstrates his ability to create strategic frameworks that position brands as iconic leaders. His deep expertise in branding, marketing, and sustainability cements his reputation as a trusted advisor and thought leader.
Andrei Balan
Behavioural Strategy | Co-Founder MKA
In the attention economy, success isn’t just about vision: it’s about execution that sticks. True strategy combines creativity and data to deliver meaningful, measurable outcomes. By focusing on what matters, simplifying complexity, and aligning innovation with accountability, we craft solutions that inspire action and drive sustained growth. The future belongs to those who turn attention into action.
Andrei Bălan is a seasoned Business & Advertising Strategist, Marketing Consultant, and Data Science Expert with extensive experience working on local, regional, and global brands. Renowned for his innovative approach, he is the recipient of numerous prestigious industry awards, including a Global Grand Effie, multiple Cannes Lions, and the European Excellence Award for Best Brand Community in Europe.
As a specialist in digital marketing, B2B strategies, social media, brand development, and event strategy, Andrei combines analytical expertise with creative vision. His work spans marketing research, political consulting, and consumer insights, making him a trusted advisor for complex, high-impact projects.
Academically, Andrei holds a PhD in Anthropology and has an educational foundation in Psychology, Political Science, and Communication. He serves as a Professor of Consumer Behavior and Digital Strategy at the University of Bucharest, where he also mentors students as a Dissertation Coordinator.
Andrei’s unique ability to blend data-driven strategies with a profound understanding of human behavior allows him to map brands into cultural contexts that foster loyalty and drive sustainable growth. His work with MKA exemplifies this approach, delivering innovative solutions that connect businesses to their audiences in meaningful ways.