Moed Board #2: Annemarie Manger on the courage to do things differently

29 September 2026

As a leader, a strong vision and a good dose of social and strategic skills alone are not enough. Successful leadership also requires courage: particularly when a situation is difficult and there is genuinely something at stake. In the new podcast series Moed Board, host Dave Cohen speaks with leading directors and supervisory board members about a courageous decision that has shaped their careers and leadership style. Through personal conversations, they reflect on moments of uncertainty, responsibility and resilience, sharing lessons that resonate far beyond the boardroom.

Episode 2: Annemarie Manger

In the second episode, Annemarie Manger joins us as our guest. Nearly twelve years ago, she was diagnosed with breast cancer. As an engineer and project manager, she approached her illness in the way she knew best: facing the problem, making a plan and working towards recovery step by step. She decided to devote a full year to her recovery and step away from work.  

The experience changed her perspective on work and leadership. Annemarie learned to place greater trust in the people around her and to pay more attention to the person behind the role. Not just focusing on the work itself, but also considering how someone is doing and what they need to perform at their best.  

During her illness, Annemarie also discovered the value of walking. Whan began as a daily way to spend time with others became an opportunity to make space for meaningful conversations. She still incorporates walking into her working life today, using it to step away from the demands of the day and have more in-depth conversations with colleagues. Listen to episode 2 of Moed Board with Annemarie Manger.  

About Moed Board

The guests featured in Moed Board come from diverse backgrounds, but share one thing in common: at a pivotal moment in their lives or careers, they made a courageous decision that changed the course of their journey.

Their stories offer recognition, fresh perspectives and practical insights for directors, supervisory board members and anyone involved in leadership. The conversations are personal, reflective and honest. Behind every important decision lies a story. Sometimes it begins in the boardroom; sometimes far beyond it. It is precisely at the intersection of professional responsibility and personal conviction that the most meaningful lessons emerge.

Through Moed Board, Houthoff explores what courage looks like in leadership and what leaders can learn from the choices that define us. Every week a new episode will air.