Business
DFCC Bank stands out in the new normal with its innovative management practices
DFCC Bank, one of the premier commercial banks in Sri Lanka, conducted a number of value-creating activities included within a multi-pronged effort consisting of newly introduced initiatives, platforms and engagement activities towards safeguarding stakeholders and conducting better business amidst the many challenges brought about by the pandemic.
DFCC Bank focused on enhancing productivity and securing the welfare and well-being of employees while adapting to the new norm. The Bank developed and implemented a number of inclusive community investments and engagements focused on assisting the nation in these times of socio-economic uncertainty, and showcased the significant economic value created by the Bank’s customer empowerment initiatives consisting of financial concessions and specialised digitisation drives. DFCC Bank ensured innovation was at the core of all activities, as the unprecedented challenges imposed by the pandemic required sustainable and innovative solutions to ensure business continuity and stability.
The Bank even received an accolade as one of the top 10 organisations in the ‘Back to Business in the new normal; Best Management Practices’ award by the Institute of Chartered Professional Managers of Sri Lanka (CPM), for its comprehensive, multifaceted approach to securing the health and safety of all internal and external stakeholders, while ensuring efficient operation and the highest levels of customer convenience and satisfaction amidst the backdrop of the Covid-19 pandemic, and the severity of the socio-economic impact of lockdowns and the deadly nature of the virus itself.
The practices consisted of a range of human resource-focused, operational, business-focused and health and safety-oriented initiatives, all with the aim of ensuring business continuity and stakeholder well-being while striving to create social and economic value. The multifaceted approach involved the comprehensive digitisation of nearly all services and processes, an organisation-wide effort to protect staff and customers alike from the negative impacts of the pandemic, special concessionary schemes to empower an economic recovery, and significant, inclusive, community investment focused on securing the health and well-being of the nation.
Commenting on the Bank’s approach, DFCC Bank Director / CEO, Thimal Perera, stated, “We are proud that our extensive efforts to secure a resilient recovery as we return back to business have been acknowledged at the inaugural ‘Back to Business’ awards organised by the CPM. As the Bank for Everyone, and one of Sri Lanka’s premier commercial banks, DFCC Bank’s comprehensive approach, supported by its newly introduced, future-looking sustainability strategy, has notably succeeded in positively impacting the lives of the many stakeholders engaged with the Bank, by empowering all and creating an abundance of social and economic value for all.”
Dr. Asanka Senanayake, founder of Shine Dental Care centres—which provide dental services across multiple locations—was recently honoured as the Most Popular Dental Doctor of the Year at the Business World International Awards 2025.
The awards, organised by the US-based Business World International Organisation (BWIO), recognised outstanding business ventures and professionals across various industries. The ceremony was held recently at the Mount Lavinia Hotel in Colombo.
Business
Another 43 Ceylinco Life sales officers graduate with diplomas in Financial Sales Management
A group of 43 sales officers of Ceylinco Life recently graduated with diplomas in Financial Sales Management, under a programme tailor-made for the life insurance market leader by the Sri Lanka Institute of Marketing (SLIM).
Covering subjects such as Financial Planning, Communication, Analytical Skills Development, Time Management, Financial Markets, and Taxation among others, the bespoke diploma programme was introduced by Ceylinco Life to enhance the skills, knowledge, and competencies of its sales personnel, and to nurture a highly proficient sales force capable of tapping into premier markets and delivering exceptional services to customers.
The nine-month course programme includes contemporary coursework, examinations and assignments to ensure a well-rounded education for the candidates.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony, Ceylinco Life Executive Director/Chief Operating Officer Samitha Hemachandra said the company had from its inception, placed special emphasis on developing and rewarding professionalism among the members of its sales force. “We led the way in equipping our sales professionals with digital tools, pushed them to obtain professional qualifications from leading international bodies relating to life insurance, to qualify for Million Dollar Round Table membership, and to improve their knowledge in finance,” he said. “As a result, they have earned the respect of the community and their peers, and built stable and lucrative careers with Ceylinco Life.”
SLIM President Prof. Jayantha N. Dewasiri said: “Promoting professional competence as a contributor to the economic growth of our country is one of the objectives of SLIM. In furtherance of this, we provide professional education to thousands of Sri Lankans every year, and are happy to support Ceylinco Life’s efforts to advance the careers of its sales officers though professional development. This is an example to other corporate entities.”
Ceylinco Life’s senior directors Messrs. Devaan Cooray and Palitha Jayawardena, Director/Deputy CEO Ranga Abeynayake, SLIM Vice President – Education & Research Dr Dilhan Sampath Jayatilleke, CEO Chamil Wickremasinghe other distinguished guests attended the graduation ceremony at the Ceylinco Life Auditorium.
Companies in the construction sector have been provided an opportunity to acquire new equipment through affordable leasing options created via a collaboration between the Commercial Bank of Ceylon and Senok Trade Combine (Pvt) Ltd., which represents global brands in construction machinery and equipment.
A memorandum of understanding signed by the two organisations provides for a series of special benefits to be provided to customers who purchase JCB and Kobelco branded construction equipment from Senok under a customised leasing package provided by Commercial Bank.
The benefits include special prices and lower interest rates, customised payment plans with attractive and affordable rentals, and the first three services at 50, 250 and 500 hours, free of charge.
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