Reflections of my takeaway from TMC

By Shan Hassan 

I joined The Management Club, also fondly known as TMC, on invitation in 2004 having satisfied the criteria to do so and have since been a member of this premier “Club like no other” for over 18 years. TMC was originally founded and began its journey at the Galle Face Hotel where we had our Lounge and Boardroom adjacent to the then popular restaurant called “Seaspray”.

My recollection, of course with great enthusiasm, is of those early days at the commencement of TMC when the initial membership stood at about 150 and the uplifting and memorable interactions I had with them.

The membership comprised of some of the great men and women of repute and stature in the country! There were many corporate leaders attached to large private sector establishments, multinational companies and banks. TMC easily attracted the younger leaders and managers, the likes of those heading marketing, finance, logistics, engineering, HR, etc., “meeting, greeting and interacting” with those of similar standing, and also with those leaders who inspired us. We gained immense knowledge and the confidence to communicate with such eminent personalities which also added so much value to our own career progression. Over the years I had the opportunity to serve in the executive committees of TMC Colombo and culminating in my being elected as the Chairman of the Club. The experience of chairing the executive committee of TMC Colombo further enhanced my leadership skills and leading an association of men and women who are there to serve rather than be served was indeed gratifying. Leading by example, espousing diplomatic leadership, adopting a growth mindset, and providing inspiration and motivation were all so important to maintain harmony, efficiency and progress in the Club. 

Uppermost in our minds was the revered Vision. Mission and Objective of TMC being to serve the membership by providing exclusive benefits, management development programs and also entertainment events so that each and every member has the opportunity to develop not only a large network of useful contacts but also, a group of friends from a wide circle of industries and disciplines.

Today, when I reminisce together with many others at TMC, we are proud of our association not only for the privilege of getting to connect with some of the best men and women in the corporate world but also because we belong to a unique Sri Lankan born management club that has gained recognition in the country as a “Club like no other”!

(The writer has held senior leadership positions in some of the leading blue chip conglomerates in Sri Lanka and currently serves TMC’s Board of Management as its Vice President Administration.)