Columbia Group has appointed Christina Orfanidou as its Head of AI, the company said in a press release.

Orfanidou will lead Columbia Group’s AI strategy and implementation, focusing on business-owned solutions that deliver measurable value.

“Christina’s appointment reflects Columbia Group’s belief that artificial intelligence must be deployed with purpose, responsibility, and a clear focus on people,” said Mark O’Neil, CEO and president of Columbia Group.

“Under her leadership, AI is becoming a powerful enabler across our business, driving productivity, supporting sustainability, and modernizing the maritime sector, while ensuring strong governance, transparency, and human oversight remain at the core of everything we do.”

Orfanidou previously served as Head of AI Services at Deloitte Cyprus. She has also participated in initiatives for the European Commission and led projects focused on AI adoption supported by robust data and AI governance.

Stepping into her new role, Orfanidou plans to demonstrate how AI can improve efficiency by reducing document production times, allowing employees to focus on higher-value, strategic work.

Her mandate includes driving productivity gains, modernizing workflows, and ensuring AI is deployed ethically, transparently, and in compliance with evolving global regulations.

“AI is not about technology for technology’s sake,” said Ms. Orfanidou. “At Columbia Group, we see AI as a productivity and empowerment tool – one that supports our people, addresses real operational challenges, and helps modernise shipping for the next generation of talent.”

Furthermore, Orfanidou intends to establish an AI factory within Columbia Group to develop tailored AI solutions.

AI initiatives under her leadership will initially be focused on internal operations, for example deploying AI agents to handle repetitive office tasks, internal knowledge management tools, and modernized crewing assignment systems.