Lalith Obeyesekere appointed Planters’ Association Secretary General

Tuesday, 9 January 2018 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The Planters’ Association of Ceylon (PA) has appointed Lalith Obeyesekere as its Secretary General,effective 1 January.

A respectedplantation industry professional and an active member of the PA, Obeyesekere headed the Association as its Chairman from 2010 to 2013 and has played a vital role in promoting the collective interests on all issues concerning the Plantation Industry. Obeyesekere takes over duties from industry veteran Malin Goonetileke, who retired as Secretary General, a position he held for 16 yearssince 2001.

As Secretary General, Obeyesekere will serve on several national and industry related Boards and committees, representing the PA and its membership. He will also play a key role in liaising with Government and trade bodies in promoting the interests of its membership and the industry in general.

Obeyesekere has over four decades of experience in the plantation sector, having commenced his career as a Management Trainee at Mackwoods Estates & Agencies Ltd. in 1973 and retired as the Director/CEO of two RPCs. Obeyesekere will continue to assist the membership of 21 Regional Plantation Companies in maintaining healthy industrial relations amongst all stakeholders.

He is a fellow of the National Institute of Plantation Management in Sri Lanka.

Founded in 1854, the Planters’ Association is the premier and one of the oldest existing organizationsand remains the apex representative body of Sri Lanka’s plantation industry. The association has played a multi-dimensional role towards formulating policies and initiating action towards the development and growth of the Industry. Today, the PA’s main function continues to be that of protecting/promoting the interests of its members. As part of its policy, the PA’s actions and representations are directed at enhancing the Industry’s credibility and image in the eyes of the Government and the public.