Asia Siyaka Commodities appoints Chamara Dissanayake CEO, announces new Board additions

Asia Siyaka Commodities PLC has appointed its Executive Director Chamara Dissanayake CEO with effect from 1 April 2026. The company has also appointed Shashike Silva and Kirk Wijesekera as Executive Directives.

Dissanayake is an accomplished professional in the field of commodities trading and supply chain management. With an impressive academic background and extensive experience in the industry, he is currently serving as the Senior Vice President and Group Chief Operating Officer at Asia Siyaka Commodities PLC.

He completed his undergraduate studies in Plantations Management at the prestigious National Institute of Plantation Management in Sri Lanka. Building upon his strong foundation in the plantation sector, he pursued a Master’s in Logistics and Supply Chain Management from Birmingham City University in the United Kingdom. This educational background has equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of the intricacies of managing complex supply chains, particularly in the context of the commodities industry. In addition to his role at Asia Siyaka Commodities, Dissanayake also serves as a Consultant to the Asian Development Bank, providing his expertise in the development of the tea sector value chain in Sri Lanka. His deep knowledge and strategic insights have been instrumental in shaping the growth and sustainability of this important industry in the country.

Recognised for his expertise, Dissanayake is frequently sought after as an Honorary Resource Person by leading universities in Sri Lanka. The University of Peradeniya, Uva Wellassa University, and Wayamba University are among the esteemed institutions where he actively contributes his knowledge and experiences. Furthermore, his contributions extend beyond academia, as he serves on the Board of Study at the National Institute of Plantations Management, playing a crucial role in shaping the curriculum and educational programs. Complementing his vast expertise in the tea industry, he is an esteemed Resource Person for the Australian Tea Masters Ceylon. This role allows him to further share his insights and experiences with tea enthusiasts and professionals globally, solidifying his reputation as a thought leader in this field.

Silva is a senior tea industry professional with over 20 years of experience spanning into tea broking, auction operations, marketing, client advisory and stakeholder management. He joined Asia Siyaka Commodities PLC as Senior Vice President in February 2023, supporting market development, key client relationships and services delivery across the tea value chain. Prior to Asia Siyaka, he commenced his career in 2005 at Forbes and Walker Tea Brokers Ltd., progressing from management trainee to Director in November 2021; where he held responsibility for marketing Low Grown Teas, while strengthening his technical exposure in grading, valuing and auctioning teas. He has contributed to the wider industry through the Colombo Tea Traders’ Association and Colombo Brokers’ Association. Silva holds an MSc in Business Psychology from London Metropolitan University and is an Associate Member of the Chartered Institute of Marketing (ACIM), UK.

Wijesekera is a distinguished industry professional with over 26 years of experience in the tea industry, recognised for his leadership and strategic insight. A seasoned tea taster, auctioneer, and broker, he brings deep specialised knowledge of High and Medium Grown marketing teas. His steady progression within Asia Siyaka Commodities reflects both his technical expertise and leadership capability. He was appointed Manager in 2014, promoted to Senior Manager in 2018, elevated to Vice President in 2002 and subsequently to Senior Vice President 2023. He leads the High and Medium team, playing a central role in tea marketing strategy while fostering enduring client partnerships. He commenced his corporate career in 1999 at John Keells Holdings and joined Asia Siyaka Commodities in 2005. His industry contributions have been further acknowledged through his service to The Colombo Tea Traders Association and Colombo Brokers Association underscoring his respected standing within the sector.