Chirag Patel : Building the Future of Modern Construction with Phenix
Chirag Patel
Joint Managing Director
With over 32 years of experience in the construction and manufacturing domain, Chirag Patel’s journey is a testament to resilience, foresight, and relentless pursuit of excellence. His professional story began soon after completing his civil engineering studies, as he immersed himself in the family’s civil construction business established in 1951.
The company was actively involved in large-scale infrastructure projects across Gujarat, and as part of the second generation, Patel and his peers sought new avenues for innovation in construction-related products. Their pursuit led to a groundbreaking milestone in 2001, when their flagship company M&B Engineering, introduced a self-supporting roofing system sourced from a US-based company under their brand “Proflex”.
This pioneering achievement made Proflex one of the first in India to bring such advanced roofing technology to the market. Today, this system dominates with an impressive 75 percent market share and operations spanning across the country.
In 2007, Phenix Construction Technologies entered a strategic technical collaboration with VP Buildings (USA), headquartered in Memphis, to establish its first Pre-Engineered Building (PEB) manufacturing facility in Sanand, Gujarat. The plant, with a capacity of 72,000 MT per annum, has since been complemented by a newly expanded 32,000 MT facility in Tamil Nadu.
Phenix’s excellence is further reflected in its rare achievements, it is the only PEB company in India with AISC certification (for exporting to the US) and Canadian Welding Bureau accreditation, enabling exports to Canada. Today, under Chirag Patel’s leadership, Phenix proudly delivers to more than 21 countries worldwide. Watching the company evolve from a local venture to a globally recognized brand remains one of Patel’s most fulfilling experiences, a journey that continues to inspire the future of modern construction.
Tell us about the major projects you handled and the challenges associated with them.
Over the years, we have executed several landmark projects across India and over seas. Some of the most notable include large automobile manufacturing facilities, the country’s biggest Giga factory in Gujarat, and a sprawling textile plant in Madhya Pradesh covering 2,85,000 sq. m. We also delivered a complex structure with an openable roof for a major Defence PSU in West Bengal. Internationally, we supplied an 8,500 MT building for a leading petroleum conglomerate in Brazil and six rice mills in Nigeria totaling 12,000 MT for one of Africa’s largest business groups.
Each project presented unique challenges, tight schedules,
complex designs, and distinct site conditions. Export projects, in particular, involved navigating logistics and local regulations, which were often as demanding as the engineering itself. Despite these hurdles, our focus on quality, cost efficiency, and on-time delivery has resulted in 70–75 percent repeat business. The key has always been seamless coordination between our design, manufacturing, and site teams, supported by robust systems and skilled professionals.
Briefly tell us about your state-of-the-art CNC machinery and automated systems that enable you to produce a wide range of components.
We firmly believe that exceptional products stem from robust and efficient processes. Our manufacturing facilities in Sanand and Cheyyar are equipped with some of the most advanced CNC machines, automated beam welding systems, and high-precision plasma cutting equipment sourced from the USA and Europe. These technologies empower us to handle large spans, heavy structural components, and intricate detailing with remarkable accuracy and consistency.
However, technology alone doesn’t define our strength. What truly sets us apart is the seamless integration of automation with skilled human expertise. Our trained professionals ensure that every process, from fabrication to finishing, meets the highest standards of precision and quality. This combination of cutting-edge machinery and technical proficiency enables Phenix to deliver superior, reliable products that consistently meet the diverse and demanding needs of our clients across various industries.
Could you tell us about the sustainable practices you have adopted at Phenix Construction and your vision toward a sustainable future?
At Phenix, sustainability is deeply embedded in our operations. Pre-engineered buildings are inherently efficient, they use less material, generate minimal on-site waste, and can be reused or expanded, reducing environmental impact. All welding, cutting, and painting processes are conducted in controlled environments adhering to Pollution Control Board norms, ensuring cleaner production.
Both our plants are equipped with solar rooftop panels generating over 1.75 MW of power for captive use. Additionally, we focus on minimizing scrap, recycling steel, and employing energy-efficient systems across facilities. My vision is to make Phenix a benchmark in sustainable steel construction, where speed, quality, and environmental responsibility go hand in hand to create a greener future.
Describe your leadership approach. What are the guidelines or methodologies you follow as a leader?
I describe my leadership style as “hands-on empowerment.” I encourage my team to take ownership of their decisions while remaining available to guide them when necessary. My philosophy is simple: “Don’t work for me, work with me.” I emphasize collaboration over hierarchy, ensuring that every team member, whether in design, production, or project execution, feels a sense of responsibility and pride in their work.
Continuous learning is central to my approach. Even after decades in the industry, I regularly walk the shop floor, engage with engineers, visit sites, and extract insights from each project. This balance of guidance, collaboration, and learning drives both personal and organizational growth.
How do you keep yourself up-to-date with ongoing industry trends to steer your organization towards the future?
Briefly tell us about your state-of-the-art CNC machinery and automated systems that enable you to produce a wide range of components.
We firmly believe that exceptional products stem from robust and efficient processes. Our manufacturing facilities in Sanand and Cheyyar are equipped with some of the most advanced CNC machines, automated beam welding systems, and high-precision plasma cutting equipment sourced from the USA and Europe. These technologies empower us to handle large spans, heavy structural components, and intricate detailing with remarkable accuracy and consistency.
However, technology alone doesn’t define our strength. What truly sets us apart is the seamless integration of automation with skilled human expertise. Our trained professionals ensure that every process, from fabrication to finishing, meets the highest standards of precision and quality. This combination of cutting-edge machinery and technical proficiency enables Phenix to deliver superior, reliable products that consistently meet the diverse and demanding needs of our clients across various industries.
Could you tell us about the sustainable practices you have adopted at Phenix Construction and your vision toward a sustainable future?
At Phenix, sustainability is deeply embedded in our operations. Pre-engineered buildings are inherently efficient, they use less material, generate minimal on-site waste, and can be reused or expanded, reducing environmental impact. All welding, cutting, and painting processes are conducted in controlled environments adhering to Pollution Control Board norms, ensuring cleaner production.
Both our plants are equipped with solar rooftop panels generating over 1.75 MW of power for captive use. Additionally, we focus on minimizing scrap, recycling steel, and employing energy-efficient systems across facilities. My vision is to make Phenix a benchmark in sustainable steel construction, where speed, quality, and environmental responsibility go hand in hand to create a greener future.
Describe your leadership approach. What are the guidelines or methodologies you follow as a leader?
I describe my leadership style as “hands-on empowerment.” I encourage my team to take ownership of their decisions while remaining available to guide them when necessary. My philosophy is simple: “Don’t work for me, work with me.” I emphasize collaboration over hierarchy, ensuring that every team member, whether in design, production, or project execution, feels a sense of responsibility and pride in their work.
Continuous learning is central to my approach. Even after decades in the industry, I regularly walk the shop floor, engage with engineers, visit sites, and extract insights from each project. This balance of guidance, collaboration, and learning drives both personal and organizational growth.
How do you keep yourself up-to-date with ongoing industry trends to steer your organization towards the future?
The construction and manufacturing industry is evolving rapidly, with new materials, design methods, and technologies emerging constantly. To stay ahead, I maintain a curious mindset , reading extensively, attending international expos, and engaging regularly with technology partners. Beyond personal learning, we have fostered an internal culture that encourages continuous knowledge sharing.
Our engineers are motivated to explore emerging trends, experiment with advanced design tools, and present innovative ideas. I believe staying ahead is less about knowing everything and more about remaining open to learning, adapting, and integrating new solutions. This approach ensures that Phenix remains agile, forward-looking, and prepared to embrace the future of construction technology.
What is the future destination you are heading towards?
The next phase for Phenix is focused on purposeful growth. We are expanding our global footprint, enhancing export capabilities, and investing heavily in automation and digital technologies to improve efficiency and precision. Beyond scaling, our vision is to become a benchmark in sustainable and modular steel construction.
We aim to create buildings that are adaptable, reusable, and easily reconfigurable to meet evolving needs. As the world shifts toward flexible, efficient, and environmentally responsible infrastructure, Phenix aspires to lead this transformation by delivering solutions that combine innovation, sustainability, and long-term value, setting new standards for the construction and pre engineered building industry worldwide.
Based on your extensive experience in the industry, what advice would you give to aspiring leaders in the field?
My key advice is to work hard and remain grounded. While technical expertise is essential, humility is equally important. Learn from your team, listen carefully to clients, and continually refine your processes and systems. Embrace change, because the construction industry is constantly evolving, from sustainability and digitalization to AI and new technologies. The sooner you adapt, the better positioned you will be. Above all, remember that leadership is not about giving orders but about providing direction, fostering collaboration, and enabling others to grow. True leaders inspire, guide, and empower their teams to achieve collective success while continuously learning them selves.
Chirag Patel, Joint Managing Director, Phenix
Chirag Patel is the Joint Managing Director of Phenix Construction Technologies, bringing over 32 years of experience in the construction and pre-engineered building industry. Under his leadership, Phenix has grown from a family-run business in Gujarat to a global player pioneering sustainable, modular steel solutions and exporting to over 21 countries.
•Hobbies: Football, travel, and exploring emerging technologies in manufacturing.
•Favorite Cuisine: Italian cuisine though I’m Gujarati at heart, simple home style khichdi or undhiyu always wins!
•Favorite Book:The Goalby Eliyahu Goldratt, it’s about continuous improvement, some - thing I strongly believe in.
•Favorite Travel Destination: Germany fascinates me, the engineering precision there always inspires me.
•Awards & Recognition: Phenix has received multiple industry recognitions for quality, exports, and manufacturing excellence, but what matters most to me is the trust of our clients and the pride of our team.
Our engineers are motivated to explore emerging trends, experiment with advanced design tools, and present innovative ideas. I believe staying ahead is less about knowing everything and more about remaining open to learning, adapting, and integrating new solutions. This approach ensures that Phenix remains agile, forward-looking, and prepared to embrace the future of construction technology.
What is the future destination you are heading towards?
The next phase for Phenix is focused on purposeful growth. We are expanding our global footprint, enhancing export capabilities, and investing heavily in automation and digital technologies to improve efficiency and precision. Beyond scaling, our vision is to become a benchmark in sustainable and modular steel construction.
We aim to create buildings that are adaptable, reusable, and easily reconfigurable to meet evolving needs. As the world shifts toward flexible, efficient, and environmentally responsible infrastructure, Phenix aspires to lead this transformation by delivering solutions that combine innovation, sustainability, and long-term value, setting new standards for the construction and pre engineered building industry worldwide.
Based on your extensive experience in the industry, what advice would you give to aspiring leaders in the field?
My key advice is to work hard and remain grounded. While technical expertise is essential, humility is equally important. Learn from your team, listen carefully to clients, and continually refine your processes and systems. Embrace change, because the construction industry is constantly evolving, from sustainability and digitalization to AI and new technologies. The sooner you adapt, the better positioned you will be. Above all, remember that leadership is not about giving orders but about providing direction, fostering collaboration, and enabling others to grow. True leaders inspire, guide, and empower their teams to achieve collective success while continuously learning them selves.
Chirag Patel, Joint Managing Director, Phenix
Chirag Patel is the Joint Managing Director of Phenix Construction Technologies, bringing over 32 years of experience in the construction and pre-engineered building industry. Under his leadership, Phenix has grown from a family-run business in Gujarat to a global player pioneering sustainable, modular steel solutions and exporting to over 21 countries.
•Hobbies: Football, travel, and exploring emerging technologies in manufacturing.
•Favorite Cuisine: Italian cuisine though I’m Gujarati at heart, simple home style khichdi or undhiyu always wins!
•Favorite Book:The Goalby Eliyahu Goldratt, it’s about continuous improvement, some - thing I strongly believe in.
•Favorite Travel Destination: Germany fascinates me, the engineering precision there always inspires me.
•Awards & Recognition: Phenix has received multiple industry recognitions for quality, exports, and manufacturing excellence, but what matters most to me is the trust of our clients and the pride of our team.