Columbia confirms CEO resignation
After a few days of speculation, ship manager Columbia has now confirmed that CEO Mark O’Neil has left Schoeller Holding. According to an official statement, they are parting on good terms.
“Mark O’Neil is leaving Columbia on the best of terms,” the ship manager announced, confirming what had been known for several days and previously reported by HANSA. The long‑standing CEO stepped down with immediate effect.
His successor has now been named. Former COO Andreas Hadjipetrou has been appointed CEO of the Columbia Group. Having spent almost 30 years with the company, he brings extensive operational expertise, strong leadership skills and continuity. Demetris Chrysostomou, currently CEO for the Asia region, will serve as deputy CEO, strengthening Columbia’s presence in Asia and further expanding the Group’s management structure.
No specific reason was given for the relatively abrupt leadership change. In a statement, O’Neil said his mandate had been to drive a fundamental transformation of the company, a task he said was now complete. He added that the time had come to hand over leadership and pursue new challenges, expressing confidence that he was leaving Columbia “in excellent condition.”
Heinrich Schoeller, Chairman of Schoeller Holdings and owner of the Columbia Group, thanked O’Neil for his “outstanding leadership” and contribution, wishing him continued success and noting that the two would remain close friends.
The Columbia Group is one of the world’s largest ship managers and forms part of the Schoeller Group, which also includes AAL, Hanse Bereederung, Genpro and Emission Link, among others.
Link to full article: Columbia confirms CEO resignation
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