Schoeller Holdings-owned Columbia Group has revealed an expansion move into India to boost its ship management and maritime service operations.
The company is opening a new hub in Mumbai, with a plan to recruit 220 new staff.
The new office marks a significant milestone in the group’s global expansion strategy, reflecting continued investment in strengthening regional hubs, it said.
Building on the success of its established operation in the Philippines, the Indian base is designed to become a complementary regional centre within Columbia Group’s global network.
“Together, the two hubs will provide enhanced regional coverage while supporting distinct service functions aligned with local market needs,” Columbia added.
Services will include ship management, performance optimisation, digital solutions, travel services, training coordination and operational support.
CSM India will fall under the responsibility of Demetris Chrysostomou as CEO of the Asia region, TradeWinds is told.
The new staff will be split across all business areas, supporting CSM Shipmanagement companies and other group operations.
Asked if seafarer training would be part of the expansion, a spokesperson said this would be considered as a future development of the footprint in India.
As for further global bases, the spokesperson added: “Columbia is always assessing opportunity; however, India andthe Philippines are immediate areas of development for these purposes.”
Chrysostomou said: “Opening our India office is both timely and strategic and represents the next step in establishing the region as a key global footprint for Columbia Group.”
“This expansion reflects not only the important role India plays in the global maritime industry, but also our commitment to being closer to our people, partners and clients, delivering services with proximity, consistency and purpose.”
The expansion will enhance operational efficiency, strengthen collaboration with regional stakeholders and support long-term talent development initiatives, Columbia believes.
Mark O’Neil, chief executive of Columbia Group, added: “This expansion demonstrates our commitment to building resilient and future-ready regional offices that support our integrated operating model.”
“By establishing a strong local presence in India, we are enhancing our ability to deliver high-quality, end-to-end maritime solutions while supporting sustainable growth in one of the world’s most important maritime markets,” he added.
