New CEOs for Noatum-CSM, SmartSea

Kris Vedat, former head of technology and logistics at P&O Maritime Logistics, has been promoted to chief executive at SmartSea. He succeeds Julian Panter who has joined the new AD Ports Group and Columbia Group joint venture, Noatum-CSM, as chief executive.

Mr Vedat’s appointment ushers in a new phase of growth for SmartSea, focused on advancing technology solutions for linking maritime operations to wider logistics ecosystems covering cargo, crew and passengers.

“My immediate focus is to empower our talented team, strengthen customer relationships, and fast-track the rollout of SmartSea Vision, a platform that will transform how the maritime industry accesses and adopts technology,” said Mr Vedat.

SmartSea is being integrated into the UAE’s maritime infrastructure, enabling Abu Dhabi to become a frontrunner in linking cruise terminals, commercial shipping, air travel and rail through digital platforms.

Mr Panter’s appointment as chief executive comes at an important time as Noatum-CSM begins scaling up rapidly.

“The partnership between Columbia Group and Noatum Maritime has the potential to set a global benchmark in shipmanagement,” said Mr Panter.

There is a co-ordinated strategy to ensure SmartSea remains central to Columbia Group’s broader digital ambitions, particularly within the UAE through Noatum-CSM.