People’s Bank shines at National Business Excellence Awards 2025

People’s Bank CEO/GM Clive Fonseka, receiving an award for Overall Excellence, together with members of the bank’s corporate management and officers

Reaffirming its status as a cornerstone of Sri Lanka’s banking industry, People’s Bank was honoured with five major accolades at the National Business Excellence Awards 2025, presented by the National Chamber of Commerce of Sri Lanka. This recognition underscores the bank’s exemplary performance, operational resilience, and its unwavering commitment to national development through sustainable and inclusive banking practices.

At this year’s awards ceremony, People’s Bank was presented with the Winner Awards in the Banking Sector, Excellence in Local Market Reach, and Excellence in Capacity Building categories. The bank also received the First Runner-Up in the Extra Large Category and a Bronze Award for Overall Excellence. 

These prestigious accolades serve as a testament to People’s Bank’s continuous pursuit of excellence across key strategic areas—from financial innovation and digital transformation to human capital development and rural market outreach. They reflect the bank’s ability to align its operations with the broader national interest while maintaining a strong performance across all business fundamentals.

Commenting on this remarkable achievement, People’s Bank Chairman Prof. Narada Fernando stated: “We are deeply honoured to be recognised at the National Business Excellence Awards 2025. These awards reflect the tireless efforts of our employees, the loyalty of our customers, and our strategic commitment to excellence and innovation. As a state-owned financial institution, we take pride in playing an integral role in driving the socio-economic progress of our country. These recognitions encourage us to continue delivering value beyond banking.”

Echoing this sentiment, People’s Bank Chief Executive Officer/General Manager Clive Fonseka added: “This recognition is a powerful endorsement of our holistic approach to banking—where performance, digital advancement, and social impact go hand in hand. Our efforts in enhancing market accessibility, investing in capacity building, and implementing cutting-edge banking solutions have positioned us as a leader in the financial services sector. We remain committed to building on this momentum and setting new benchmarks for service excellence and innovation in Sri Lanka’s banking landscape.”

People’s Bank continues to stand as a trusted financial partner to millions of Sri Lankans, managing an asset base exceeding Rs. 3 trillion. With a nationwide presence through 751 branches and service centres, the bank caters to over 15.2 million customers, ranging from individuals and SMEs to large corporates and government entities. Its workforce, comprising more than 7,600 employees, is central to its sustained performance and customer service delivery.

The bank has also led the way in the adoption of digital banking platforms, ensuring enhanced convenience, accessibility, and security for its diverse customer base. With more than 300 Self Banking Units (SBUs) strategically located across the island, People’s Bank provides 24/7 access to essential banking services, bridging the gap between traditional and modern banking for both urban and rural communities.

A strong advocate of inclusive finance and sustainable business practices, People’s Bank has consistently integrated Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles into its operational model. Its long-term vision is centred on building a digitally empowered, financially literate, and economically resilient Sri Lanka.