OrbitMI’s latest hire signals a bold pivot in maritime tech—not just toward smarter tools, but toward smarter partnerships. Capt. Sujit Padhye, a seasoned mariner with a quarter-century of experience, is stepping into a senior leadership role to steer the company’s product strategy and managed services. This isn’t just a C-suite shuffle; it’s a calculated bet on the future of maritime operations.
Padhye’s career is a roadmap of how shipping is evolving. He’s not just a tech leader—he’s a bridge between the digital and the operational, a rare breed who speaks both the language of algorithms and the language of the bridge. His background spans voyage optimization, emissions compliance, and fleet performance, with stints at Synergy Marine Group and Lloyd’s Register where he turned data into actionable insights. At Synergy, he scaled digital services that reshaped how fleets make decisions. At Lloyd’s Register, he integrated environmental and performance data into voyage planning, proving that compliance and efficiency aren’t mutually exclusive.
Now, he’s bringing that expertise to OrbitMI, where he’ll oversee product innovation and managed services. This isn’t just about building better software—it’s about building better partnerships. Padhye understands that digital platforms are only as good as the people using them. “Many companies also need trusted partners who understand the day-to-day realities of maritime operations,” he said. “That’s what I hope to bring to this role.”
This is where OrbitMI’s strategy gets interesting. The company isn’t just selling tools; it’s selling expertise. By embedding managed services into its offerings, OrbitMI is positioning itself as a one-stop shop for operational guidance, not just software. This could be a game-changer in an industry where tech adoption is often slowed by a lack of in-house expertise.
Padhye’s appointment also highlights a broader trend in maritime tech: the rise of the hybrid leader. The days of siloed thinking—where tech teams develop tools in isolation and operators struggle to implement them—are fading. The future belongs to leaders who can bridge the gap, and Padhye is a prime example. His global network and cross-functional experience will be crucial as OrbitMI expands into voyage optimization, emissions intelligence, and risk management.
Ali Riaz, CEO of OrbitMI, put it bluntly: “Capt. Sujit’s leadership strengthens our ability to deliver smarter, more connected maritime solutions.” But the real strength lies in what Padhye brings to the table—not just his technical skills, but his operational wisdom. He’s not just building tools; he’s building trust.
This is the kind of leadership that could redefine maritime tech. As the industry grapples with decarbonisation, digitalisation, and operational efficiency, having a leader who understands both the tech and the trade is invaluable. Padhye’s role at OrbitMI isn’t just about overseeing product strategy—it’s about shaping the future of maritime operations. And that’s a future worth watching.