Sampath Jayasundara assumes office as new Chairman of SLASSCOM

• Commits to champion Sri Lanka’s acceleration towards high-value knowledge and innovation economy

New Chairman Sampath Jayasundara addresses the SLASSCOM post-AGM ceremony yesterday at the Cinnamon Grand

The Sri Lanka Association for Software Services Companies (SLASSCOM) yesterday elected Sampath Jayasundara as the new Chairman for the 2026/27 term, ushering in a new chapter of leadership as Sri Lanka’s knowledge and innovation industry continues its journey towards becoming a $ 5 billion export sector.

A respected industry leader, entrepreneur, and educator with over 25 years of experience across Sri Lanka’s knowledge and innovation industry, Jayasundara currently serves as the CEO of PeoplesHR and hSenid Business Solutions PLC. Throughout his career, he has championed digital transformation, built globally recognised technology solutions, and successfully expanded Sri Lankan innovation into international markets.

Beyond his corporate leadership, Jayasundara has also made a significant contribution to education and talent development. As Co-Founder and Director of Pioneer Institute of Business and Technology Ltd., he has helped create opportunities for thousands of students through internationally recognised degree and postgraduate programs delivered in partnership with the University of Greenwich, UK. He also lectures at several leading higher education institutions, bringing practical industry experience into the classroom and helping shape the next generation of business and technology professionals.

As Chairman, Jayasundara’s vision is centred on creating greater value for Sri Lanka’s knowledge and innovation industry by strengthening global competitiveness, developing future-ready talent, accelerating entrepreneurship, and positioning the country as a destination for high-value digital services and innovation.

“Our next phase of growth will not be defined by competing on cost alone. It will be driven by innovation, intellectual property, world-class talent, and globally competitive products. By embracing Artificial Intelligence (AI), supporting entrepreneurship, and strengthening collaboration across industry, academia, and government, we can position Sri Lanka as a leading knowledge and innovation hub while accelerating our journey towards becoming a $ 5 billion export industry,” he said.

A key priority during his tenure will be developing an AI-ready workforce through the SLASSCOM Academy, expanding opportunities for AI upskilling, industry-led training, and the development of job-ready graduates. Working closely with universities and the University Grants Commission, the SLASSCOM will also advocate for curriculum reform to embed AI, emerging technologies, and practical digital skills into higher education.

Entrepreneurship will be another strategic focus, with the launch of a flagship Entrepreneurship Development Program designed to support founders and startups through mentorship, incubation, investor access, market readiness, and global business linkages, creating stronger pathways for innovation-led businesses to scale internationally.

Another important priority will be accelerating Sri Lanka’s transition towards a product-led digital economy. Building on the country’s strong reputation as a trusted global services destination, the SLASSCOM aims to encourage more Sri Lankan companies to build, own, and scale globally competitive digital products and platforms. This evolution will strengthen Sri Lanka’s position as an innovation hub, attract greater investment, and create high-value opportunities for local talent.

Recognising that talent remains the industry’s greatest competitive advantage, the SLASSCOM will also strengthen collaboration between academia and industry through structured internship and industry readiness programs, providing students with practical exposure across software engineering, AI, data analytics, cybersecurity, product development, and digital marketing.

Supporting Jayasundara will be a distinguished Board representing diverse expertise across technology, entrepreneurship, finance, operations, and business leadership. 

The Board for the 2026/27 term comprises Vice Chair Haridhu Abeygoonaratne (Managing Director – SimCentric Technologies), Vice Chair Sanjini Munaweera (Regional Head South Asia Customer Engagement Solutions, ADA), Director – Operations Shanaka Fernando (Managing Director/Country Head – WNS Sri Lanka), and Director – Finance Bimal Gunapala (VP Engineering – Global Frontiers).

With a clear vision for the future and a strong focus on collaboration, innovation, and talent, the SLASSCOM’s new leadership aims to strengthen Sri Lanka’s position as a globally competitive knowledge and innovation economy, creating greater value for its members, the industry, and the nation.