Early Life
Samir Mane was born on December 24, 1967, in Korçë, Albania. He studied at the University of Tirana's Faculty of Geology and Mining. Following the collapse of communism in 1991, he moved to Vienna, Austria, where he worked as a translator and began building business connections.
Rise to Success
In 1993, Mane founded Alba Trade, which initially focused on consumer electronics. Recognizing an opportunity in Albania's emerging market, he began importing and selling electronics, laying the foundation for his business empire. Over the years, he expanded his business interests into retail, real estate, and banking. He developed major projects, including shopping malls and real estate developments like QTU and TEG in Albania. Mane is the founder and president of Balfin Group, an investment group with a diverse portfolio of over 50 companies operating in 11 countries in Europe and the United States.
Key Business Strategies
Mane's success stems from his ability to identify market opportunities, diversify his business interests, and make strategic investments in various sectors. His leadership style is characterized by transformational leadership, fostering a collaborative environment, and encouraging innovation. His company owns Tirana Bank and has expanded its business in multiple areas, including shopping malls, construction, logistics, mineral industry, retail, agriculture, and tourism.
Philanthropy
Mane established the Mane Foundation, a charitable fund supporting initiatives in education, environment, health, and poverty alleviation in the Western Balkans. In 2018, the Balfin Group contributed over 452 thousand euros to various causes in Albania.