Macovei Cosmin Alexandru – On Clarity and Courage in Building Visual Brands

Discover the journey of Macovei Cosmin Alexandru, founder of CM Design, who transforms ideas into powerful visual identities through strategy, clarity, and creativity.

Macovei Cosmin Alexandru believes that a strong brand begins with a well-told visual story. For over 11 years, he has been transforming ideas into coherent and relevant visual identities, where aesthetics and strategy go hand in hand. Founder of CM Design and Zoominds, he has collaborated with brands across various industries, from local businesses just starting out to international companies, building clear, functional, and easily recognizable visual systems. His strategy is rooted in clarity, functionality, and a deep respect for the creative process, which he sees as an essential partnership between client and designer, where every detail matters and every visual decision is anchored in business objectives.

C&B: How would you describe yourself in a single sentence, in a way that makes people who don’t know you yet curious?
Macovei Cosmin Alexandru: Macovei Cosmin is a graphic designer who uses his creativity, technique, and strategic thinking to build visual identities that not only look good but also communicate clearly and persuasively—and most importantly, drive sales.

C&B: If we were to look at the narrative thread of your career or business, what were the key moments that defined you?
Macovei Cosmin Alexandru: Looking back, I believe my professional story was built on three major moments. The first was the decision not to treat design as a side activity, but as a profession with all its responsibilities. The second key stage was when I started working with new brands that weren’t yet on the market, had no visual strategy, and I had to learn how to build one from start to finish. The third defining moment was when I began refusing projects that didn’t align with my values. It was a difficult step, but it helped me shape my style and attract the right collaborations.

C&B: What has been the most difficult moment in your journey so far, and how did you overcome it?
Macovei Cosmin Alexandru: The most difficult moment was a period of burnout when I felt like I was doing too many things and yet completing nothing. I was accepting far too many projects, without a clear strategy and often without the energy to finish them, which brought me close to losing touch with the passion that made me choose this profession in the first place. I overcame this block by taking a break and asking myself the right questions, which helped me reorganize my activity, better define my services, and rediscover my motivation.

C&B: Is there a dream or ambition that has always guided you, no matter the obstacles?
Macovei Cosmin Alexandru: From the very beginning, I’ve had the desire to build something unique and long-lasting—something that will stand strong even years from now. I was guided by the idea that design is not about trends or temporary “wow” effects, but about structure, consistency, and meaning. My dream has been, and still is, to be a point of reference in the visual branding industry—not necessarily through notoriety, but through the real impact I leave on my clients’ projects.

C&B: How did you look at the beginning of your journey, and how do you feel you have transformed since then?
Macovei Cosmin Alexandru: At the beginning, I was enthusiastic, with a heavy dose of perfectionism and a burning desire to prove myself. I lacked concrete tools and self-confidence, but I had curiosity and the willingness to learn. Today, I am more balanced. I know that a good project is not only about aesthetics but also about communication, functionality, and adaptability. The most important transformation has been in my mindset: I no longer see design as a standalone artistic activity, but as a collaborative process, based on a deep understanding of clients’ and audiences’ needs.

C&B: If we were to meet your team or collaborators, what do you think they would say about you?
Macovei Cosmin Alexandru: I think they would say that I am organized, ambitious, serious, and very detail-oriented. I sometimes ask a lot of questions, but they are essential for clarifying direction (I’ve created several complex questionnaires for this purpose). I am the kind of person who doesn’t stop until I find a coherent solution.

C&B: What is the most important decision you’ve made that changed your trajectory?
Macovei Cosmin Alexandru: To publicly assume who I am and what I offer. This was a decision that came after years of working “in the shadows,” without putting my name forward. When I chose to communicate clearly, build a transparent portfolio, and promote myself, it was a moment of professional ownership and maturity.

C&B: How did you build your leadership style or the way you make decisions? Was it a natural process or something you learned?
Macovei Cosmin Alexandru: I learned along the way. My style was shaped by projects, people, and failures. At first, I made impulsive decisions—sometimes too emotional or too fast. Over time, I learned to analyze, to listen, and then to make the important calls. Now, I balance reason and instinct: I listen, filter, analyze, and take responsibility. I always strive to find the best solutions for clients. Each client has taught me something new, and each project has helped me improve my services. It’s a flexible style, but with clear principles.

C&B: What do you think differentiates your business or professional approach from the rest of the industry?
Macovei Cosmin Alexandru: I believe the difference lies in how I relate to the client: as a partner, not just a “beneficiary.” I don’t just deliver a logo or a poster—I build a direction, ask strategic questions, and design a system of visual communication. This means that sometimes projects take longer, but they have long-term impact.

C&B: What does a typical day look like for you now, and which moments bring you the most satisfaction?
Macovei Cosmin Alexandru: A typical day starts with a good coffee and a careful review of briefs and client feedback. I usually dedicate mornings to creative work, when my energy is highest and my mind is clear. After lunch, I focus on the technical side: adjustments, preparing files, color tests, mockups, and so on. The day ends with a moment of reflection on progress and with sketching spontaneous ideas for future projects. The greatest satisfaction: seeing clients resonate with the brands I create. I love hearing: “This is exactly what I wanted!”

C&B: What values or principles guide you in your work, and how do you apply them daily?
Macovei Cosmin Alexandru: I work with three constant pillars: clarity, consistency, and respect. Clarity helps me communicate simply, without ambiguity, in briefs, proposals, and deliverables. Consistency gives me rhythm—in style, deadlines, and ethics. Respect is shown towards the client, the work, and myself. I don’t accept compromises that could harm my professional direction.

C&B: How did you come up with the idea to start this business, and why did you choose this name?
Macovei Cosmin Alexandru: CM Design grew naturally, as projects became more numerous and substantial. The name was a decision of ownership: instead of choosing a “creative,” abstract name, I decided to use the initials of my own name—because what I sell is my expertise, vision, and style. It’s a statement of transparency, but also a commitment: everything I deliver carries my signature.

C&B: If you were to share a message with people who want to follow your example, what would it be?
Macovei Cosmin Alexandru: Never stop learning, and don’t wait until you feel “ready” to start. Begin, practice, make mistakes, and learn from feedback. Ask questions, stay curious, but also take ownership. And above all: design is not just about beauty. Design is functional, strategic, and clear. Don’t be afraid to take risks—creativity needs courage. Be the kind of professional who builds things that last and that help, not just impress.

The story of Macovei Cosmin Alexandru is proof that a strong brand is built on clarity, consistency, and courage. Through every project, he shows that design is not just about aesthetics but a strategic process that delivers real value to clients and creates identities that stand the test of time.