We spoke with Irene Rosberg, Director of the Executive MBA in Shipping and Logistics (The Blue MBA) at Copenhagen Business School (CBS).
Shipping has long rewarded technical excellence. The strongest leaders were the ones who understood operations inside out, including chartering, vessels, compliance and performance.
But that model is no longer enough.
When we spoke with Irene Rosberg, Director of the Executive MBA in Shipping and Logistics (The Blue MBA) at Copenhagen Business School (CBS), she pointed to a clear shift:
"There has been a major move from operationally focused leadership to a more strategic and sustainability-oriented model. The role of a leader has moved from managing ships to managing complex issues.”
Today’s leaders are not just managing assets - they are navigating uncertainty.
The technical trap
Many high-performing professionals are promoted because of their technical expertise. Yet leadership requires something different.
“Their technical superiority has often been the source of their success. But that is different from the strategic and people-oriented skills required to be a successful leader.”
The transition demands a mindset shift, from solving problems yourself to empowering others, and from focusing on how things are done to understanding why they are done.
Adaptability is the real competitive advantage
With geopolitical pressures, digital transformation and sustainability demands reshaping shipping, one capability stands out.
“Adaptability is key. In an industry facing constant disruption, you can only survive if you practice adaptability.”
Adaptability is no longer optional. It is essential.
The end of command-and-control
Leadership culture is also evolving.
“There is a need to move from command-and-control to a more inclusive, collaborative and trust-based leadership.”
Employees today expect empowerment. Innovation requires diversity. Performance depends on engagement.
Leaders who still rely purely on hierarchy are increasingly misaligned with the modern maritime workplace.
Can leadership be learned?
The assumption that leaders are simply “born” still exists in parts of the industry.
Irene disagrees.
“Structured leadership training can have a measurable impact. It accelerates individual careers and improves overall organisational performance.”
Leadership capability can be strengthened, refined and expanded, and doing so benefits both the individual and the organisation.
Preparing for the next level
For mid-career professionals aiming higher, Irene’s advice is practical:
“Shift from reactive day-to-day thinking to proactive, long-term strategy. Move from focusing on how work is done to why it is done.”
That mental shift often defines who progresses into senior leadership and who remains operationally excellent but strategically limited.
This April, Irene Rosberg will bring these insights to our Leadership Masterclass in Denmark. She will be joined by senior shipping leaders and expert speakers, offering a comprehensive leadership experience grounded in real-world insight and best practice from across the international maritime sector.
Want to learn more? Register for the Leadership Masterclass here (Leadership in Shipping Masterclass)