Finlays-StrEdge collaboration nurtures future-ready leaders

StrEdge Advisory, the business consultancy arm of StrEdge Group of Companies, recently concluded a ten-month leadership development program for Finlays Colombo Ltd. The participants comprised a hand-picked group of high performing professionals drawn from the middle management of Finlays. They represented a diverse cross-section of the business and were identified as future-ready leaders who would bring agility, empathy and innovation to a growing organisation.

StrEdge, which offers a broad spectrum of business consultancy services including coaching and development, has today expanded its reach to an international clientele. The leadership program was thoughtfully curated to foster growth across multiple dimensions of leadership. The deliveries included psychometric assessment (DISC executive insights) to uncover behavioural, motivational and critical thinking styles, cognitive pattern analysis, activity-based group coaching, development focused one-on-one sessions and an immersive outbound learning experience. The sessions addressed key areas such as emotional intelligence, decision making under pressure, strategic thinking and building a business owner mindset. Contributions were also made by dynamic entrepreneurs during a panel discussion on ‘Business Owner Mindset’. Key professional competencies such as strategic goal alignment, executive presence and influence without authority were also explored to equip participants for higher impact leadership roles.

The program, as StrEdge Group Director, Janaka Epasinghe, points out, sparked visible transformation where participants emerged with sharper strategic foresight, deeper self-awareness and greater emotional resilience. “Each participant crafted three-to-five-year leadership roadmaps, aligning personal leadership values and ambitions with Finlays’ long-term goals. From driving cross-functional innovation to embedding a performance culture, these leaders now carry the torch of organisational growth, conscious at all times that leadership is not a title but a decision; one that begins with the mindset to influence, inspire and impact,” says Finlays Leadership Development Program Executive Coach Epasinghe.

“Following the conclusion of the GetSet Leadership Development Program, I am happy to see the remarkable progress of our future leaders. One of the most visible changes is the increased synergy amongst participants. There is a noticeable ease in cross-functional collaboration, which has led to faster decision-making and greater cooperation across divisions,” says Finlays Colombo’s Chief Human Resources Officer, Gayanthika Pathirannehe.

“These individuals are also demonstrating stronger ownership taking on added responsibilities, expanding their roles and making more informed and confident decisions,” adds Pathirannehe. “I see them stepping beyond their comfort zones, driving innovation and finding creative solutions to today’s complex business challenges. The transformation has been both inspiring and impactful. It affirms that, with the right guidance and exposure, our people are ready to lead with purpose and agility. I look forward to seeing how they will continue to shape the future of Finlays with courage, integrity and commitment at the heart of their leadership.”

As one of Sri Lanka’s leading tea exporters and a multinational with over 135 years of rich heritage in the country, Finlays is always challenging itself to become stronger and more forward-thinking, with significant investment in developing its people. “Our people form a core pillar of our Global Sustainability Strategy 2030. We are not only focused on enhancing the value of our business but are equally dedicated to developing and enriching the potential of our employees. This commitment is underpinned by our values – Doing Better Each Time, Taking Accountability, Acting for the Long Term and Succeeding Together,” says Finlays Managing Director, Sinthaka Ruwan.

Among a range of investments in coaching, mentoring and training initiatives, Finlays has prioritised the development of a selected group of young leaders, preparing them to take on top leadership roles in the future. “We partnered with StrEdge for their strong track record in organisational and people transformation. The leadership coaching program has delivered on its promise of successfully shaping a collaborative leadership team that champions a growth culture and an innovative mindset, ready to lead Finlays Colombo into the future,” remarks the Finlays MD further.