Sanjaya Gunawardana new Sampath Bank Managing Director/CEO

Thursday, 25 September 2025 05:20 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Helms bank’s adoption of AI-powered machine learning models into core banking operations

Sanjaya Gunawardana

Sampath Bank PLC yesterday announced the appointment of Sanjaya Gunawardana as its new Managing Director/CEO. He succeeds Ayodhya Iddawela Perera who completed her term of office on 23 September.

Sanjaya Gunawardana is a banking professional with over 36 years of experience across key pillars of the financial services industry, including Retail Banking, Trade Finance, Information Technology, Strategic Planning, and Organisational Development.

In a statement the bank said that under Gunawardana’s stewardship, Sampath Bank has embarked on its second major technological evolution, marked by the successful integration of AI-powered machine learning models into core banking operations enhancing efficiency, risk management, and data-driven decision-making.

Gunawardana’s leadership philosophy is also shaped by his exposure to global best practices through advanced executive education and leadership development at some of the world’s most prestigious institutions. These include Harvard Business School, INSEAD, the International Finance Corporation (IFC), and the McKinsey Center for CEO Excellence. This international exposure has enriched his strategic outlook and ability to lead through complexity and change.

In addition to his executive role as the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Sampath Bank, he presently serves as a member of the Board of Directors of Sri Lanka Bankers Association, Lanka Financial Services Bureau Ltd., and Lanka Pay Ltd.