Three months after Mark O’Neil’s sudden departure as CEO of the Columbia Group, his successor has gone public with his “priorities for the next phase of growth”.
Andreas Hadjipetrou, the new CEO of the Columbia Group, has made “responsible growth, closer collaboration, support for seafarers and long-term customer trust” – amongst other things – the cornerstones of his strategy.
The aim is to build on Columbia’s existing values whilst responding to the rapidly changing maritime market, according to a statement released today by Hadjipetrou, who took the helm of the shipping group in the Schoeller conglomerate – which also includes the MPP-owned shipping company AAL, Hanse Bereederung, Genpro and Emission Link – in April.
Columbia itself is one of the world’s largest ship managers. And it clearly intends to expand its footprint in this market: Hadjipetrou has now announced plans to further expand “the core business of ship management” whilst at the same time developing the group’s range of services.
“The shipping industry is changing rapidly. Decarbonisation, technology, regulation and market uncertainties are altering the demands that shipowners and operators place on their partners. Our focus must be on reliable service, transparency, sound corporate governance and relationships built on trust,” said the new CEO.
Andreas Hadjipetrou has been with the Columbia Group for almost 30 years; he joined the company in 1996 as an accountant. Since then, he has held management positions in finance, commercial management, technical operations, customer service and international expansion. In the spring, he succeeded Mark O’Neil as CEO, following O’Neil’s somewhat unexpected and sudden departure from Columbia for reasons that were not specified.
Hadjipetrou explained that one of his immediate priorities is to strengthen collaboration and the exchange of information between the companies, branches and departments within the Columbia Group.
“Our growth must be measured, profitable and meaningful. Technology and decarbonisation are advancing, but our focus must remain on quality, accountability, trusting partnerships and long-term performance. Strong companies are built by people who feel valued and supported, and who are proud to make their contribution.” He also explicitly highlighted the crews on board: “Our seafarers are at the heart of what we do. We must continually improve their working conditions, safety, wellbeing, training, communication and general support.”
