Columbia Group Unplugged

AI is moving fast, but leadership matters even more.

In this episode, our CEO sits down with Christina Orfanidou, Columbia’s new Head of AI, to discuss how we’re approaching AI with governance, responsibility and a clear principle: innovation should never become the tail that wags the dog.

From protecting seafarers’ data to empowering our teams, this is a conversation about building AI the Columbia way, people first.

In this inspiring episode of the Columbia Group Podcast, Group Director for Diversity, Inclusion and Sustainability Claudia Paschkewitz is joined by colleagues Angela, Alexandra, and Stavros Fokas to explore what diversity truly means within the Columbia family.

From cultural backgrounds and neurodiversity to communication, empathy, and inclusion, the conversation highlights how embracing our differences creates a stronger, more connected workplace. The team shares personal stories, experiences from life at sea and ashore, and the importance of treating every individual with respect and kindness.

Join us as we celebrate Global Diversity Awareness Month and reaffirm why diversity and inclusion are not just values — they’re the foundation of who we are.

On this special episode of Columbia Group Unplugged, we mark Day of the Seafarer with a powerful conversation on building harassment-free ships.

Simona Toma, Capt. Leonid Zalenski, and Anca Preda—maritime leaders with deep seafaring experience—share personal stories, challenges, and the steps Columbia Group is taking to ensure every crew member feels safe, respected, and supported at sea.

From open-door leadership to reporting systems and training, this episode sheds light on what it takes to create real change onboard—and why a safe ship is everyone's responsibility.

Mirroring the theme of the International Maritime Organization’s symposium - An Ocean of Opportunities - we dedicated our latest Columbia Group Unplugged podcast episode to highlighting gender dynamics in shipping and how they play into the careers of women in our industry.

Maria Theodosiou, GP General Procurement Company Limited (GenPro)’s Managing Director, and Yiola Hadjichristodoulou, Senior QSHE Officer, discussed their personal career journeys, growth into leadership roles, and the importance of inclusion to support women in traditionally male-dominated fields.

According to the IMO, women make up 20% of the maritime workforce ashore, and even less at sea. Our Female Cadetship Programme, dedicated DEI teams, inclusive hiring practices, and women in senior leadership roles reflect our commitment to building an equitable maritime workforce. From crew to C-suite, we support women at every step of their journey.

Join us in celebrating the invaluable contribution of the women in our industry.

In this episode, Gavin Scott (Deputy QSHE Manager | Deputy DPA) and Ko Ko Naing (Deputy Group Director QSHE & Compliance) dive into the heart of what safety really means at Columbia Group. From personal stories that shaped their commitment to safety, to how Columbia is standing by its crews through new regulations, mental health initiatives, and real-time vessel support—they explore what it takes to create a culture where safety and sustainability go hand in hand. Whether you’re onboard or ashore, this episode is a powerful reminder that safety isn’t just a rule—it’s a mindset.