In this conversation with Mădălina Cîinaru, Head of the Bucharest Office and coordinator of the British-Romanian Chamber of Commerce (BRCC) operations in both Romania and the UK, we explore the evolving dynamics of UK–Romania business relations, the impact of global trade trends, and BRCC’s mission to support bilateral economic development. With over 16 years of leadership experience across international trade, stakeholder engagement, and public-private governance, Mădălina shares her perspective on building ecosystems that empower innovation, connect capital, and drive long-term strategic partnerships.
“With strong roots in both the UK and Romania, and international reach through the BCC network present in 75+ international markets, the BRCC is more than a Chamber — we are the heart of a dynamic business community shaping the future of international collaboration,” says Mădălina.
As a strategic and impact-driven executive, Mădălina brings deep expertise in government relations, advocacy, and stakeholder strategy. Her experience mentoring founders and scaling tech ventures in programs such as InnovX’s European Accelerator for mid-sized companies has added a digital-forward lens to the Chamber’s work. “We’re not just opening doors — we’re building bridges between talent, capital, and opportunity,” she explains.
Mădălina Cîinaru, Head of the Bucharest Office at the British-Romanian Chamber of Commerce, leads UK–Romania operations and coordinates a growing cross-border team. With 16+ years of experience in international trade, stakeholder engagement, and public-private partnerships, she positions the Chamber as a connector, enabler, and advocate for businesses. Under her leadership, BRCC has expanded its focus into tech, sustainability, and investment readiness — mentoring founders and unlocking new market opportunities. Rooted in the UK and Romania, with global reach across 75+ markets, BRCC is a dynamic network shaping the future of business.
- Nine O’Clock: What is the BRCC’s perspective on current trade tariffs between the United Kingdom and the United States?
Mădălina Cîinaru: While UK–US trade tariffs fall outside our direct bilateral remit, we closely monitor their broader impact, particularly on UK–EU commercial dynamics. Trade frictions between major global partners can influence investor confidence, disrupt supply chains, and shape long-term strategic decisions across markets.
As a Chamber committed to supporting cross-border business, the BRCC ensures that Romanian and British companies are equipped to navigate such complexities with agility and foresight. We maintain regular consultations with the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) and other key stakeholders to assess emerging challenges in the region and to represent our members’ interests with a unified voice.
- Nine O’Clock: What role does the British Romanian Chamber of Commerce play in strengthening commercial relations between Romania and the UK, especially in the post-Brexit context?
Mădălina Cîinaru: BRCC is a trusted connector, enabler, and advocate in the post-Brexit landscape. Until now, we’ve scaled up our efforts to guide Romanian businesses through the UK’s new regulatory frameworks while promoting Romania’s competitiveness as a hub for British investment. Bilateral trade has shown remarkable resilience, reaching £9.9 billion by Q4 2024, with a year-on-year increase of 5.1%. That growth reflects the strength of our network and the ambition of the companies we support.
- Nine O’Clock: How does BRCC support Romanian entrepreneurs who want to enter the UK market or attract investment from British companies?
Mădălina Cîinaru: Our work is highly tailored — from providing practical guidance on UK market entry, taxation, and legal frameworks, to offering direct introductions to British institutional and corporate stakeholders. Through targeted business missions, forums, and matchmaking, we create a real platform for Romanian founders to tell their story, raise capital, and expand their global footprint. . Our partnerships with accelerators such as InnovX have been instrumental in preparing tech startups for global expansion.
Most recently, we led a delegation of 10 Romanian mid-sized companies to London for two intensive days of networking and business development, with the support of the British Embassy in Romania and the Romanian Embassy in the UK. This is just one example of the hands-on initiatives we champion to help businesses grow beyond borders.
- Nine O’Clock: In which sectors do you see the greatest potential for collaboration between Romanian and British companies?
Mădălina Cîinaru: Romania’s tech sector — especially cybersecurity, AI, and software services — continues to attract British interest. So do green energy, infrastructure, and advanced manufacturing. The UK remains a strong partner for knowledge transfer, capital investment, and ESG leadership, making this a high-value bilateral relationship for future industries.
- Nine O’Clock: What are the most common challenges BRCC members face when doing international business, and how does the Chamber assist them in overcoming those hurdles?
Mădălina Cîinaru: I would say that Cross-border operations always come with challenges: shifting regulatory environments, talent mobility, and access to financing. BRCC mitigates these by offering curated insights, strategic partnerships, and access to government and institutional advisors. Our members also benefit from being part of the BCC global network of 51 UK Chambers and 75+ international markets — a unique asset in today’s complex global economy.
- Nine O’Clock: Are there any new partnerships or initiatives planned for 2025 to further boost Romanian-British economic relations?
Mădălina Cîinaru Absolutely. As one of the most dynamic bilateral Chambers, we remain committed to driving forward-looking initiatives that keep us ahead of the curve.
In 2025, we’re launching a regional business forum in Liverpool and Manchester to broaden the conversation beyond London and highlight the potential of Romanian companies across the UK’s key economic hubs. We are also expanding our sector-specific clusters, with a strong focus on green transition, tech innovation, and supply chain security, aligning with strategic priorities shared by both countries.
Additionally, we are in advanced discussions with the local Embassies and partners to co-organize an economic forum in Moldova later this year, offering our members a new platform for regional engagement and cross-border opportunities.
- Nine O’Clock: How is BRCC involved in promoting sustainability and innovation among its member companies?
Mădălina Cîinaru: Sustainability is at the heart of our 2025 agenda. We’re working closely with companies on ESG reporting, climate action, and responsible business conduct, with upcoming workshops like “Climate in the Boardroom”. On the innovation side, our focus remains on digital transformation and supporting the scale-up journey of tech founders — from pitch strategy to capital raising and investor matchmaking.
- Nine O’Clock: What would be your message to Romanian businesses that are not yet BRCC members but are considering international expansion or strategic partnerships with UK-based companies?
Mădălina Cîinaru: If you’re serious about scaling internationally, the BRCC is your platform. We offer more than visibility — we give you access to a trusted, bilingual network of decision-makers across both public and private sectors. In my view, membership is a commitment to growth, credibility, and cross-border success.
- Nine O’Clock: How do you view the recent membership of Nine O’Clock in BRCC? What value can such a media partnership bring to the Chamber’s mission?
Mădălina Cîinaru: We’re really proud to welcome Nine O’Clock as a strategic media partner. Quality journalism plays a vital role in amplifying voices, sharing insights, and mobilizing business communities. This partnership will allow us to communicate better, inform wider audiences, and support initiatives that bring real impact to both economies.
- Nine O’Clock: How can our community get involved in celebrating UK–Romania ties this summer?
Mădălina Cîinaru:This summer, we invite our community to be part of one of the BRCC’s flagship events — the BRCC Garden Party-Downton Abbey edition taking place on July 10 near Bucharest.
Set in an elegant private residence, this exclusive evening brings together leaders from across business, diplomacy, and government. It’s the perfect opportunity to build strategic connections, explore UK–Romania business opportunities, and celebrate our shared values in a relaxed yet high-impact setting.
Whether you’re looking to scale internationally or expand your professional network, this event is the place to be for meaningful engagement and collaboration.
We warmly invite our community to our Downton Abbey Garden Soirée on July 10 — a signature event hosted at a private residence near Bucharest. It’s an elegant evening of cross-sector networking, diplomatic presence, and meaningful dialogue. Whether you’ve been part of our community for years or are just joining us, it’s the ideal setting to experience the BRCC spirit of connection, collaboration, and shared ambition.
Nine O’Clock: Thank you for these answers and for taking the time to participate to this interview!
Andreea Drăgan joined Nine O’Clock in April 2023 as a Editor. She graduated the Faculty of Journalism and Communication Science in 2023 and holds a degree in communications sciences. She obtained the Cambridge Assessment English: First Certificate in English (FCE) diploma in December 2018 with a B2 Level. In August she was promoted to Editor of Nine O’Clock Newspaper after many interviews and articles written by her. Andreea Drăgan, journalist at Nine O’Clock, specializing in Capital Markets and listed companies on the Bucharest Stock Exchange, has been nominated for the “Excellence in Capital Market Journalism in 2023 and 2024” award at the prestigious BVB Awards, organized by the Bucharest Stock Exchange. Get in touch with her: andreea.dragan@nineoclock.ro
Additional details here: https://brcconline.eu/brcc-downton-abbey-garden-soiree
