Irene Manou

Irene Manou (Class of 2025)
CEO, Enassis Shipping Ltd

I believe TRIUM is not just a program — it’s a crucial milestone for any leader. It was one of the best experiences and most valuable journeys.

Irene Manou is the CEO of Enassis Shipping Ltd., a privately owned shipping company with operations in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. A second-generation entrepreneur, Irene transitioned into international logistics to build a company capable of operating across volatile global markets. Under her leadership, Enassis Shipping, Ltd. has grown steadily with a future-facing strategy that includes potential IPO readiness and expansion into the energy sector.

Irene recently spoke with TRIUM about how her mother exemplified female leadership in a male-dominated field and taught her that success is not gendered, how TRIUM sharpened her ability to assess geopolitical risk and tactical and strategic thinking, and her future ambitions for Enassis Shipping, Ltd.

What was your motivation for pursuing a Global EMBA? Why did you choose TRIUM among other global programs?

My motivation for pursuing the TRIUM Global EMBA was driven by my ambition to strengthen my skills and knowledge to support my business growth. As my business activities increasingly crossed borders, I knew that gaining a deeper understanding of global markets, leadership strategies, and advanced business practices was essential to achieving my goals and ambition into possibly entering the stock market and listing the company.

I chose TRIUM because it was personally recommended to me by a highly respected business leader whose opinion I deeply trust. After researching the program, I realized it perfectly matched what I was looking for: a truly global curriculum, a strong focus on international business, and the unique collaboration of three world-renowned institutions — NYU Stern, LSE, and HEC Paris. I did not consider other programs—once I discovered TRIUM, I knew it was the right choice for me.

You began working at 18 in a family business led by a female entrepreneur. How did having such a strong female role model shape your views on leadership and success?

I began working at 18 in my family’s business, although it was a completely different industry from the one I would eventually pursue, the experience was transformative. Having a strong female entrepreneur as a role model showed me early on that success isn’t about gender — it’s about execution, hard work, and resilience. Watching her run a business gave me natural confidence and taught me that leadership has no limits. Being raised around strong female leadership meant I always had guidance, support, and an example of how to navigate challenges with strength and determination. It gave me the belief that anything is possible with focus and effort.

Growing up around two generations of powerful women in business provided not only inspiration but also invaluable guidance. Their example gave me a deep sense of confidence — the kind that stays with you and empowers you to take risks, trust your instincts, and keep pushing forward even in challenging times. I believe that young girls who grow up with strong female role models, especially in business, gain an early advantage: they learn that there are no limits to what they can achieve.

Now your company is female led and you are interested in growing to include a training program for women. What is your best piece of advice for women entering male-dominated fields?

My best advice for women entering male-dominated fields is to work hard, stay persistent, and never give up. Success doesn’t come overnight, and in some cultures, the challenges can be even greater. However, consistent hard work and determination eventually break down barriers. Over time, even in industries traditionally dominated by men, your expertise and resilience will earn their respect — and often, they will begin to seek you out for your knowledge and leadership and advice in their business decisions.

How did you initially become interested in the shipping industry? What was the early genesis of your career in the shipping industry?

I initially became interested in the shipping industry through my desire to work in a truly international sector. I didn’t want to be limited to a business tied to one country or one economy. As I explored global opportunities, I quickly recognized how vital shipping is to world trade and how much potential it offers. What began as curiosity turned into a passion. I started building relationships, learning the business from the ground up, and identifying areas where I could add value. The early genesis of my career in shipping was fueled by opportunity, hard work, and a determination to succeed in a global industry.

Your company has operated in many countries, including the Middle East market and the African market—including developed and emerging countries.  How has TRIUM’s global curriculum informed your knowledge, worldview, and understanding of geopolitics in way that will benefit your business?

Operating in developed and emerging markets showed me how critical a global perspective is for success. TRIUM’s curriculum deepened my understanding of geopolitics and economics and gave me practical tools to manage risk, identify opportunities, and operate more strategically across different regions — all of which directly strengthen my ability to grow my business internationally.

How are you considering energy as your company grows and evolves?

Energy is an important market we are considering as the company grows. Many of the countries we focus on are developing economies, so we recognize that the transition toward more advanced energy infrastructure will take time. However, we view energy as a critical sector for the future and are closely monitoring opportunities as these markets evolve. Our long-term strategy includes staying flexible and ready to participate in energy-related developments as demand and infrastructure in these regions expand.

Do you have stock-market ambitions for the company? What tactical marketing, business, and strategic insights did TRIUM leave you with in order to get the business in the best possible shape for its future?

Before beginning TRIUM, one of my goals was to gain more knowledge to prepare for the possibility of entering the stock market, with this goal I would need more knowledge and skills to enter strongly. After completing TRIUM’s program I have received this knowledge.

TRIUM provided me with valuable tactical and strategic insights — from understanding how to structure a business for sustainable growth, to refining marketing strategies, strengthening corporate governance, and evaluating risks at a global level. The program helped me think more critically and long-term about the steps needed to position my company for future opportunities, including a potential public offering.

What was one valuable a-ha moment you had in class or in a conversation with a peer?

I had many a-ha moments throughout my time at TRIUM. Early on, I remember Professor Robert Falkner mentioning that by the end of the journey, we would have reflected deeply. In the fast pace of daily business, I rarely had the time—or the need—to step back and do this. By the end of the program, I had done so as I was able to make time to attend and complete the program regardless of how busy I was. I took a step back and was able to view both my personal and business life from a new perspective. One particularly powerful moment came during Module 6, when we read a case study about a company director working tirelessly, balancing business and personal pressures. It felt like I was reading my own story at the start of TRIUM. By that point, however, I realized I had grown — I had developed new skills, new balance, and a new mindset that helped me evolve far beyond where I began.

Any words of perspective for someone considering venturing on the TRIUM journey?

TRIUM is truly life changing. You don’t leave the program the same person you were when you entered — your mindset shifts and you gain a 360-degree understanding of many critical topics shaping today’s world. Your thought process becomes completely polished in every possible way, both personally and professionally.

I believe TRIUM is not just a program — it’s a crucial milestone for any leader. It was one of the best experiences and most valuable journeys.

How would you describe your TRIUM experience in three words?

Transformation. Growth. Change.