Schoeller Holdings–owned Columbia Group has announced a major expansion into India, opening a new regional hub in Mumbai to strengthen its ship management and maritime services operations.
The company plans to recruit around 220 professionals across business verticals, marking a significant milestone in Columbia Group’s global expansion strategy and underscoring its continued investment in strengthening regional service hubs.
The India office is designed to complement Columbia’s well-established operations in the Philippines, together forming a dual-hub model for the Asia region. The two centres will provide enhanced regional coverage while supporting distinct service functions tailored to local market needs.
Services from the Mumbai hub will include ship management, performance optimisation, digital solutions, travel services, training coordination and broader operational support. The new entity, CSM India, will operate under the leadership of Demetris Chrysostomou, CEO of the Asia region.
The planned recruitment will span all business areas, supporting Columbia Shipmanagement (CSM) companies as well as other group operations. While seafarer training is not part of the initial rollout, the company said it could be considered as a future development as the Indian footprint matures.
Commenting on the expansion, Chrysostomou said the move was both timely and strategic. “Opening our India office represents the next step in establishing the region as a key global footprint for Columbia Group,” he said. “It reflects the critical role India plays in the global maritime industry and our commitment to being closer to our people, partners and clients.”
Columbia Group believes the expansion will enhance operational efficiency, strengthen collaboration with regional stakeholders and support long-term talent development.
Group chief executive Mark O’Neil added that the move aligns with the company’s 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 said.
While Columbia continues to assess further global opportunities, the company confirmed that India and the Philippines remain its immediate focus for regional development.
