The Columbia Group wants to reorganise its crewing activities and is establishing a new department for this purpose.
The traditional crewing department will be transformed into a “fully-fledged maritime human resources department” that will “revolutionise the management and care of its seafarers”, Columbia has now announced.
Given the changing demands of the maritime industry, the move is described as part of the Group’s strategic development. The move, inspired by changes in global shipping dynamics and the evolving expectations of seafarers, signals “a forward-looking approach to crew management and development”.
Fradi to lead new Columbia division
Leading this transformation will be Captain Faouzi Fradi, the Columbia Group’s Director of Crew and Training, who will take on the new role of Managing Director of Maritime Human Resources.
With his extensive maritime background and decades of experience in the industry, he is ideally positioned to lead this significant change. “The shipping industry is undergoing rapid change and it is imperative that we adapt our approach to manning and crew management,” said Fradi. “By combining modern HR techniques with years of crewing expertise, we will ensure that our organisation remains competitive, efficient and people-focused.”
The newly created maritime HR department is designed to go beyond the traditional boundaries of crewing by incorporating talent management, career development and the wellbeing of all seafarers in the group. Crew members will benefit from improved, personalised training and a commitment to lifelong learning.
