Cyprus-based Columbia Group, a leading integrated maritime, logistics and offshore services company, has announced a strategic expansion into India with the opening of a new office in Mumbai, reinforcing its long-term global growth roadmap.
The Mumbai office marks a significant milestone in Columbia Group’s international expansion strategy and underscores the company’s continued investment in strengthening regional hubs that deliver a wide range of maritime and operational services. As part of this expansion, the group also plans to recruit approximately 220 additional professionals in India, further enhancing its global service capabilities.
The move builds on the success of Columbia Group’s established operational hub in the Philippines, which supports a broad spectrum of Columbia Shipmanagement (CSM) and group-wide functions. The India office is designed to operate as a complementary regional centre within the group’s global network. Together, the two hubs will provide enhanced regional coverage while supporting distinct service functions aligned with local market needs.
CSM India will support multiple Columbia Group companies and services, including ship management, performance optimisation, digital solutions, travel services, training coordination and operational support. This expansion further strengthens the group’s integrated service offering across the maritime value chain.
Commenting on the development, Demetris Chrysostomou, CEO – Asia Region at Columbia Group, described the opening of the India office as “both timely and strategic,” noting that it represents the next step in establishing Asia as a key global footprint for the group.
He added that the expansion reflects not only “the important role India plays in the global maritime industry,” but also Columbia Group’s commitment to being closer to its people, partners and clients by delivering services “with proximity, consistency and purpose.”
The Mumbai office will function as a regional hub supporting the full spectrum of ship management and operational services, working closely with Columbia Group’s global teams to maintain the highest standards of service delivery, compliance and professional development. The expansion is also expected to enhance operational efficiency, strengthen collaboration with regional stakeholders and support long-term talent development initiatives.
Mark O’Neil, CEO and President of Columbia Group, said the expansion highlights the company’s commitment to building “resilient and future-ready regional offices” that support its 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.
Overall, the opening of the India office underscores Columbia Group’s continued focus on agility, innovation and people-led growth as it responds to evolving market demands and strengthens its global platform across maritime, logistics and offshore services.
