Kisescu Bogdan: The Show Architect Turning Challenges into Experiences

Interview with Kisescu Bogdan, Managing Partner at Five’s International, about leadership, memorable events, resilience, and innovation in a constantly evolving industry.

Kisescu Bogdan, Managing Partner at Five’s International, is a show architect with over 25 years of experience in the events industry, where, together with his team, he transforms ideas into memorable experiences through scenographic solutions – video, sound, lights – delivered with creativity, rigor, and a constant focus on quality and results.

C&B: How would you describe yourself in a single sentence to make those who don’t know you yet curious?
Kisescu Bogdan: You need a lot of passion to get through sleepless nights, outdoor events at +45°C or -25°C, and countless unforeseen situations that inevitably arise. Add to that a constant desire to learn, to better understand every step, and to grow with each challenge.

C&B: If we were to follow a narrative thread of your career or business, what were the key defining moments?
Kisescu Bogdan: The first major moment was in my third year of university when I got a job at the advertising agency D’Arcy. It was a revelation: I realized how drawn I was to events, advertising, understanding a brand, and the carefully prepared spontaneity behind the scenes. Later, together with two friends, I founded Men In Black, an independent BTL agency. That’s where I truly discovered entrepreneurship – with all its difficulties and beauty. Another defining moment was accepting the role of Managing Partner at Five’s International during a critical period for the company, which we managed to overcome successfully.

C&B: What has been the most difficult moment in your journey and how did you overcome it?
Kisescu Bogdan: Without a doubt, the pandemic was the toughest professional period. Knowing you’re not allowed to operate, with the team looking to you for solutions, and needing to completely reinvent your activity – it was a test of resilience. We found solutions, adapted, and looking back now, we smile with confidence.

C&B: Is there a dream or ambition that has always guided you, no matter the obstacles?
Kisescu Bogdan: Yes – the desire to do things better. Sometimes that means simpler, sometimes more creative, sometimes just different. And every obstacle was a new “challenge accepted” moment for me.

C&B: How did you look at the beginning of your journey, and how do you feel you’ve changed over time?
Kisescu Bogdan: At the beginning, I was guided by a beautiful recklessness, typical of youth. Over time, that recklessness turned into experience – but I’ve tried to preserve the enthusiasm and curiosity from back then.

C&B: If we met your team or collaborators, what do you think they would say about you?
Kisescu Bogdan: I hope they’d say good things 😊. I’d like to be seen as a true professional, but I know everyone is a sum of perceptions, and the truth is somewhere in between. If I managed even once to be truly helpful to someone in the team or network, then I’m content.

C&B: What is the most important decision you’ve made that changed your trajectory?
Kisescu Bogdan: I applied to the Faculty of Tourism, convinced that would define my career. It just so happened that I got a temporary job in advertising… and never looked back. I fell in love with the field and never regretted the choice. Tourism remained just a personal passion.

C&B: How did you build your leadership style or decision-making approach?
Kisescu Bogdan: I believe leadership is a combination of authenticity and continuous learning. You can learn a lot, but if the style doesn’t fit you, it won’t work. And the other way around – relying only on instinct without structure isn’t enough. It’s also important to know when to be a colleague, when to be a mentor, and when to be the decision-maker. It’s a conscious alternation.

C&B: What do you think differentiates your business or professional approach from others in the industry?
Kisescu Bogdan: We focus on better understanding the client and anticipating issues before they arise. We aim for partnerships, not just service delivery. Of course, we keep an eye on what the industry is doing, but we concentrate on what we can do better – and we constantly learn from every project. I also believe an existing client is always more valuable than any pitch won.

C&B: What does a typical day look like for you now, and which moments bring you the greatest satisfaction?
Kisescu Bogdan: The most beautiful thing in my job is that there are no “typical” days. Each day comes with a different context, a different challenge, a different team. And that’s exactly what brings me the most satisfaction.

C&B: What values or principles guide you in what you do and how do you apply them daily?
Kisescu Bogdan: Responsibility, perseverance, attention to detail, and focusing on what really matters. I try to apply these in both major decisions and everyday interactions.

C&B: How did the idea of opening this business and choosing this name come to you?
Kisescu Bogdan: I joined the company later, so I didn’t contribute to the name or founding. But I took over leadership during a critical moment and contributed to strengthening and growing the company into what it is today.

C&B: If you could send a message to those who follow your example, what would it be?
Kisescu Bogdan: Do things with passion and find your own path – not a pre-written formula, but one built step by step, based on who you truly are.

Kisescu Bogdan stands as a strong example of leadership and creativity, showing that success comes from perseverance and a constant desire to innovate.