Interview of the week – Modpack System – Romania


this week we speak with

Valentin Malaescu,
CEO, Modpack Group, Romania


THE "WHO-WHERE-WHAT" CHALLENGE

After graduating from high school, Valentin’s initial job was at a needle factory where he constructed excavators. After15 years working in a quality department at various multinational companies he joined a global automotive corporation, and had the opportunity to extensively train in Germany, adopting their practices and mastering two new languages. As a result, he successfully positioned a small Romanian business as a market frontrunner, competing against established companies with decades of history.

Tell us about Modpack System. Who owns the company?

Established in 2007 by siblings Valentin and Bogdan Malaescu, Modpack System, a company fully owned by Romanians, is currently among the top companies offering comprehensive packaging solutions, industrial relocation, logistics and multimodal transport all over the world. Motivated by the aspiration to establish a company catering to the extensive demands of clients, they made the choice to abandon their stable career in a multinational corporation and launch their own venture, recognizing an untapped market niche in Romania.

Tell us a few words about your personal experience, your expertise and the company's business in general.

Over the years, we’ve developed a deep understanding of the complexities involved in transporting and handling oversized loads, as well as navigating regulatory environments and infrastructure challenges. At Modpack System, we specialize in tailored solutions for heavylift projects, combining innovative engineering with robust logistical planning. Our team is dedicated to ensuring that every project is executed safely, efficiently, and on schedule. We pride ourselves on our collaborative approach and our commitment to customer satisfaction, which helps us build lasting partnerships in the industry.

Where are your offices located?

Through the years, we successfully grew our presence worldwide, originating in Ploiesti, Prahova, and recently expanding to the United States, EU and the United Kingdom. Our offices are located in various locations, including Romania and overseas. The main office is in Ploiesti which serves as the central hub for operations and project management. We also have additional offices in Cluj and Bucharest (as support for INDUSTRIAL RELOCATION, FOR 3D design-electric & mechanic dismantling & installation) allowing us to provide localized support and expertise. We have expanded since 2018 to Liverpool, Uk, and recently opened an office in Huston, USA. This strategic positioning helps us coordinate projects efficiently and respond promptly to client needs.

Tell us about projects that you have handled recently.

One of our major projects is the Experienced Gigafactory Set-up. Modpack is in tune with the electric vehicle (EV) revolution. Our experienced experts offer unmatched skills, making sure your gigafactory is not only functioning but also set up for success. Modpack's knowledge influences streamlined processes from conceptualization to execution. Modpack is dedicated to ensuring that you are at the forefront of the renewable energy storage revolution with the help of gigafactories.

Our specialists focus on seamlessly integrating advanced technologies to enhance the efficiency and dependability of energy storage solutions. Rely on Modpack to establish your gigafactory, conquering hurdles in renewable energy storage with accuracy and creativity. Modpack isn’t just a solution; it’s your partner in pioneering excellence.

Which are the main industries served in Romania and which one seems to be your focus point?

I think every industry plays a vital role and Modpack System aims for the highest possible outcome. Our company operates in a wide variety of sectors including oil & gas, mining, pulp & paper, automotive, construction, power & energy, automotive, tobacco, food, military, etc.

Is Project Cargo Forwarding competitive in Romania? How do you ensure that you stand out?

Project cargo & heavy lift forwarding requires experience, commitment and flexibility in order to execute complex cargo movements. Our Project personnel who do that for so many years already, our solid record and our global network put us in the position to comfortably allege that, with Modpack System, you'll find the know-how, the flexibility, transparency and financial strength that guarantee safe and timely delivery for your heavy / project cargo.

We prioritize HSSEQ to ensure safety and quality on every project.

What parts of Heavylift project management seem to be challenging in Romania? Any advice to be shared as a precaution or as an important highlight to a potential customer?

Lifting and handling heavy structures are complex operations. We deliver tailored solutions adapted to each project configuration, from early design to final operation.  Conducting such operations requires engineering expertise, reliable equipment, careful operating, and precise placement. Relying on skilled and experienced teams and thorough risk management to ensure worker safety, structure preservation, and worksite surroundings protection is essential, especially when these operations are carried out in dense urban areas.

Complex projects may often necessitate to combine several operations, especially when adjusting the structure in its final position. This is where our expertise, specialist teams and capability to drive and manage the project in all aspects will make the difference.

What made you personally join the industry?

Engineering challenges specific to each project. Modpack stands out in the market as a provider of comprehensive services, offering complete solutions to customers and partners, including industrial relocation (such as dismantling, assembly, and commissioning assistance), industrial packaging, loading, and lashing.

What do you like the most about your business?

I like the spontaneity of this business, where each day brings new things to learn, new challenges. Each project is unique, allowing for creativity and innovation in finding the best solutions. I also value the collaborative nature of the industry, working alongside dedicated professionals and building strong relationships with clients and partners. Seeing a project come to life, especially when it involves heavy lift operations, is incredibly rewarding. It’s fulfilling to contribute to something that has such a significant impact on infrastructure and development.

Who should be approached in Modpack System for inquiries?

For more information you can contact our Global Operation Manager, Mrs. Alina Sandu, via:

  1. +4 (0)729 037 297 RO / CZ / DE
  2. +44 (0)151 318 6162 UK
  3. +1 (832) 710-1773 USA
  4. [email protected]

 

Log In

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Ridwan Ongkowidagdo

[email protected]

Ridwan Ongkowidagdo is an Indonesian shipping executive with more than 25 years of experience in maritime transportation, finance, telecommunications, and corporate management.
He currently serves as Director of PT Pelayaran Taruna Kusan Jaya, a leading Indonesian heavy freight and heavy-lift shipping company, a position he has held since 2004. Prior to joining the maritime industry, he held financial management positions in several United States-based telecommunication technology and publishing companies, including Asiatel, Interpacket Networks, and McGraw-Hill.
Ridwan earned a Doctorate in Economics (Strategic Management) from Universitas Trisakti, an MBA in Finance and International Business from Loyola Marymount University (USA), a Master of Laws (MH) specializing in Maritime Commercial Law from Universitas Jayabaya, and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Arizona (USA).
His academic and professional interests focus on strategic management, sustainability, digital transformation, and competitive advantage in the shipping industry. His doctoral research examined the impact of sustainability and digitalization management on the competitiveness of small shipping companies in Indonesia and has been published in an international peer-reviewed journal.
In addition to his corporate leadership responsibilities, he has completed professional training in maritime law and arbitration, and marine HSQE (health, safety, quality and environment) auditing.

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Clinton Eckersall

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Clinton Eckersall is an Australian logistics executive with more than 27 years of experience in international freight forwarding, project logistics, and commercial leadership across four continents. His career spans both multinational corporations and privately owned businesses, giving him a broad perspective on how organizations of different scales approach complex logistics challenges. As Director at AAW Group, a privately owned Australian Logistics Group with operations across Australia and New Zealand, Clinton is based in Brisbane and leads the company's commercial strategy and international agent and network strategy. His nine years with AAW have seen him build the business's national sales capability and oversee its growth across gateway ports and specialist project freight markets. Clinton values the connections and collaboration that come with being part of a group like The Heavy Lift Group, and understands firsthand the role that trusted networks play in enabling independent operators to take on complex, multi-disciplinary projects with confidence. He is looking forward to meeting the group in person once again.

Picture of Ragan Watson

Ragan Watson

[email protected]

Ragan is a project logistics professional with 18 years of experience in heavy lift, project cargo transport, and specialized industrial rigging. Currently serving in a business development role for Barnhart across North America, he brings deep operational expertise earned over the prior 11 years in roles as Project Manager of Special Projects and Operations Manager of Heavy Transportation at Barnhart. Across each of these positions, Ragan has helped plan and lead project teams executing some of the most complex, demanding and award-winning projects in North America, consistently pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the field.
Ragan is a committed student of his craft, continuously learning from the knowledge of peers, clients, and teammates. He holds that trustworthiness and honesty are the foundation of any successful partnership.
Outside of work, Ragan spends his time helping raise his young family with his wife, Michelle. Ragan is also active playing music in a local band, long distance running and cooking.

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Janesh Gulati

[email protected]

Janesh Gulati has contributed extensively to the Project Logistics industry over a distinguished career spanning more than 42 years, serving in leadership roles, including CEO at J.M. Baxi & Co., and currently the Managing Director at Total Movements. During his tenure as CEO of J.M. Baxi’s Project Logistics vertical, he played a pivotal role in expanding the business and strengthening its position within the industry.
He has successful execution of a large number of Projects especially including many Super Thermal Coal Based Power Projects, Hydro Power Projects, Many Oil Refinery Projects & several complex Multimodal Transportation to his credit. He enjoys the confidence of a large number of EPC, Heavy Engineering customers for providing reliable and high quality logistics solutions.
He has played a key role in the Indian Project Logistics Industry over the past 4 decades and enjoys a stellar reputation in the industry.
He brings in his expertise in areas of Heavy Lift Transport, Multimodal Logistics, Organization Building, Financial Strategy, Procurement Strategy & Overall Business Strategy.

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Grant Bell

[email protected]

Grant joined NMT in 2005 and, after 12 years abroad in senior chartering roles based in China and Singapore, returned in 2020 to help lead operations globally. Now a Partner and Director, he drives execution and growth across Australia and key Asia-Pacific markets. Known for his systems thinking and hands-on style, Grant is passionate about building capable teams and delivering practical, no-nonsense solutions. He’s also a firm believer in keeping things simple, staying grounded, and sharing a laugh along the way.

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Morris Mburu

[email protected]

Morris Mburu, FICS, is an accomplished logistics, transport, and shipping executive with over 30 years of leadership experience across the East African market. As the Managing Director and founder of Export Consolidation Services (K) Ltd, he successfully grew the company from a startup into a major regional logistics operation employing over 100 staff and operating a fleet of more than 50 heavy commercial vehicles across multiple African countries.
Morris is recognized for his expertise in strategic planning, operational management, business development, and stakeholder engagement. Throughout his career, he has built strong partnerships across the shipping and logistics sector while leading organizations through major industry changes and challenges.
He holds an MBA in Shipping and Logistics from Middlesex University, UK, and is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers (FICS), with extensive knowledge in shipping, port management, logistics, and multimodal transport.

Picture of Murilo Caldana

Murilo Caldana

[email protected]

Murilo Caldana is a Brazilian project logistics executive with more than 25 years of experience in heavy lift, project cargo, and complex industrial logistics across Latin America, with his strongest background in Brazil. His experience in Mexico, where he lived and worked for over three years, not only opened the doors to a new language, but also provided deep exposure to the complexity, diversity, and business dynamics of Latin America as a whole.
As Project Director at FOX Brasil Project Logistics, he has led and supported major projects in sectors such as energy, mining, infrastructure, pulp & paper, and industrial plants across the region.
A long-standing member of The Heavy Lift Group, Murilo combines practical field experience with strategic market insight, bringing a strong perspective on Latin America’s opportunities, challenges, and the importance of collaboration in delivering complex global projects.

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Iris Muellejans

[email protected]

Iris Katrin Muellejans is Managing Partner Director of Rolf Riedl GmbH, an international freight forwarding company, which she has led for over 22 years after taking over the family business. She specializes in heavy lift and project logistics, with extensive experience across the power and energy sector, managing projects from initial feasibility studies through to full on-site execution. Her expertise spans overland, air, and ocean logistics, alongside rigging and foundation installation. Known for her hands-on approach, Iris combines strategic leadership with practical execution in delivering complex global transport solutions.

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John Doe

[email protected]

Colin is a seasoned veteran in the project logistics sector, having spent over 30 years in the industry. As of 2024, he was appointed Co-Vice President, Director of Project Logistics Global at Rhenus Logistics, where he oversees Rhenus Project offices across the Americas, India, China, and the Middle East & Africa (MEA). Based in New York, Colin has been with the company for over 30 years, originally starting at KOG Transport in 1995 before it was acquired by Rhenus Logistics in 2015.
In addition to his leadership role, Colin emphasizes teamwork, mentoring the younger generation, and maintaining strong, long-term relationships with clients. He is known to strongly believe in customer-centric service and collaborative, tailor-made logistics solutions.

Picture of Christian Buss

Christian Buss

[email protected]

Christian Buss is Head of Chartering at Briese Chartering GmbH & Co. KG, based in Leer, Germany. He brings nearly two decades of experience in the multipurpose and project cargo shipping sector, having previously held senior roles at EMS Chartering and BBC Chartering. Throughout his career, he has developed deep expertise in global chartering markets, commercial strategy, and complex cargo solutions.

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Jaap Gebraad

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Jaap Gebraad has worked for about 10 years as Board Secretary and Senior Project Manager of the "Bureau Innovation Research & Development" of the Foundation STC Group. He was also the Daily Secretary of the European Association EDINNA (Education in Inland Navigation). From 2018 to March 2022, Jaap was Director Research and Development Affairs at SEA Europe and Executive-Director of the Waterborne Technology Platform. Jaap holds a Bachelor's Degree in Logistics and Economics of the University of Applied Sciences (HES) in Rotterdam.

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George Tzogopoulos

[email protected]

Dr George N. Tzogopoulos (Ph.D. Loughborough University, UK, 2009), expert in media and international relations as well as Chinese affairs, is member of Centre international de formation européenne (CIFE) core faculty. At CIFE, he directs the modules on 'conflict and cooperation in the international system' and 'international energy governance and conflict'. George is the author of three books: US Foreign Policy in the European Media: Framing the Rise and Fall of Neoconservatism (IB TAURIS), The Greek Crisis in the Media: Stereotyping in the International Press (Ashgate) and The Miracle of China: The New Symbiosis with the World (Springer). George is also Non-Resident Fellow at the Begin-Sadat Center for Strategic Studies (BESA), Senior Fellow at the Hellenic Foundation for European and Foreign Policy (ELIAMEP), Research Associate at the European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR), and part-time Lecturer at the Democritus University of Thrace.

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Panos Patsadas

[email protected]

Panos Patsadas is holding of a BSC in Applied Mathematics, a master’s degree in International Trade and Transport, and is also a certified Life Coach, alongside his career in Shipping. Over the last 20 years, Panos has held various managerial and leadership positions in the Breakbulk, Heavylift, Gas and Petrochemicals industries, working for Large Shipowners and Energy Majors. This has helped him develop a deep understanding of the Energy Supply chain challenges, both at Infrastructural level, as well as at the logistics and the downstream side of it. In his current role as Global Chartering Manager for Trans Global Projects, he is part of a small team that serves 6 international offices with their chartering requirements, as well as oversees the tonnage procurement for large EPC projects.

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