Sampath Bank Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Sampath Bank has 9 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, operations, technology, human resources, revenue, and legal.

Driven by a commitment to innovation, Sampath Bank provides comprehensive personal and corporate banking solutions, shaping Sri Lanka's financial landscape through strategic leadership and customer-centric services.

Leadership Roles at Sampath Bank

  • Chief Executive Officer - Shane Perera
  • Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director - Sanjaya Gunawardana
  • Executive Director and Group Chief Financial Officer - Ranjith Samaranayake
  • Chief Operating Officer - Rahubadde de Silva
  • Chief Information Officer - Ajith Salgado
  • Chief Revenue Officer - Sashikala Yatawara
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Lalith Weragoda
  • Chief Legal Officer - Pununuwan Wickremasekera
  • Chief Human Resource Officer - Chryshanthi Lokuhetty
  • Shane Perera - Chief Executive Officer

    Shane Perera, the Chief Executive Officer at Sampath Bank, directs the overall strategic vision and operational execution for the institution. Overseeing all major business units, Perera ensures alignment with the bank's mission to deliver innovative financial solutions across Sri Lanka. This leadership role involves driving growth initiatives, optimizing service delivery, and fostering a culture of excellence within the organization. By guiding the executive team, Shane Perera champions the bank's commitment to customer satisfaction and sustainable development, solidifying its position as a leading commercial bank. The Chief Executive Officer's purview extends to managing stakeholder relationships and ensuring robust corporate governance.

    Sanjaya Gunawardana - Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director

    Sanjaya Gunawardana, the Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director at Sampath Bank, spearheads the strategic direction and comprehensive management of the bank's operations. Gunawardana's leadership encompasses driving the bank's growth trajectory and ensuring the delivery of advanced personal and corporate banking solutions throughout Sri Lanka. This executive position involves cultivating strategic partnerships, enhancing operational efficiencies, and upholding the highest standards of corporate governance. Sanjaya Gunawardana's mandate includes fostering innovation in financial services and reinforcing the bank's market leadership. The Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director's responsibilities are critical to navigating the dynamic financial sector and achieving long-term organizational objectives.
    Sanjaya Gunawardana

    Ranjith Samaranayake - Executive Director and Group Chief Financial Officer

    Ranjith Samaranayake, the Executive Director and Group Chief Financial Officer at Sampath Bank, directs the bank's financial strategy, planning, and reporting. Samaranayake oversees all aspects of financial management, including accounting, treasury, and investor relations, ensuring the fiscal health and stability of the institution across Sri Lanka. This pivotal role involves managing financial risks, optimizing capital allocation, and driving profitability for both personal and corporate banking operations. By guiding the finance division, Ranjith Samaranayake ensures adherence to regulatory requirements and enhances shareholder value. The Executive Director and Group Chief Financial Officer's insights are crucial for strategic decision-making and sustainable growth.

    Rahubadde de Silva - Chief Operating Officer

    Rahubadde de Silva, the Chief Operating Officer at Sampath Bank, directs the day-to-day operational activities and ensures the efficient functioning of the bank's service delivery channels. De Silva oversees the implementation of operational policies and procedures that support the bank's commitment to providing seamless personal and corporate banking experiences throughout Sri Lanka. This role involves optimizing internal processes, managing risk, and enhancing service quality across all branches and digital platforms. By leading the operations division, Rahubadde de Silva plays a key part in maintaining the bank's reputation for reliability and customer service excellence. The Chief Operating Officer's focus is on operational integrity and continuous improvement.

    Ajith Salgado - Chief Information Officer

    Ajith Salgado, the Chief Information Officer at Sampath Bank, architects and directs the bank's technology strategy and digital transformation initiatives. Salgado oversees the development and implementation of robust IT infrastructure, ensuring the security and reliability of all banking systems that support personal and corporate clients. This critical role involves driving innovation in digital banking platforms, enhancing cybersecurity measures, and leveraging technology to improve operational efficiency across Sri Lanka. By managing the IT department, Ajith Salgado ensures that Sampath Bank remains at the forefront of technological advancements in the financial sector. The Chief Information Officer's focus is on enabling business objectives through cutting-edge technology solutions.

    Sashikala Yatawara - Chief Revenue Officer

    Sashikala Yatawara, the Chief Revenue Officer at Sampath Bank, drives strategies to maximize revenue generation across all banking products and services. Yatawara oversees the sales and marketing functions, focusing on expanding market share for both personal and corporate banking solutions within Sri Lanka. This leadership position involves identifying new revenue streams, optimizing pricing strategies, and enhancing customer acquisition and retention efforts. By collaborating with other executive leaders, Sashikala Yatawara ensures that revenue targets are met and exceeded, contributing directly to the bank's financial growth. The Chief Revenue Officer's expertise is vital in navigating competitive market dynamics and driving profitable business expansion.

    Lalith Weragoda - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Lalith Weragoda, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Sampath Bank, leads the strategic management of human capital to support the bank's objectives. Weragoda oversees talent acquisition, employee development, and organizational culture initiatives designed to foster a high-performing workforce across Sri Lanka. This executive function involves developing and implementing HR policies that align with the bank's values and business strategy, ensuring compliance and promoting employee engagement. By championing human resources, Lalith Weragoda contributes to building a skilled and motivated team capable of delivering exceptional personal and corporate banking services. The Chief Human Resources Officer's role is fundamental to employee satisfaction and organizational success.
    Pununuwan Wickremasekera, the Chief Legal Officer at Sampath Bank, provides expert legal counsel and oversees all legal affairs for the institution. Wickremasekera ensures that the bank's operations, including its personal and corporate banking services, comply with all relevant laws and regulations in Sri Lanka. This senior role involves managing legal risks, advising on contractual matters, and representing the bank in legal proceedings. By leading the legal department, Pununuwan Wickremasekera safeguards the bank's interests and upholds its commitment to ethical business practices. The Chief Legal Officer's guidance is essential for maintaining regulatory compliance and mitigating legal exposure.

    Chryshanthi Lokuhetty - Chief Human Resource Officer

    Chryshanthi Lokuhetty, the Chief Human Resource Officer at Sampath Bank, drives the strategic implementation of human resources initiatives to support organizational growth and employee development. Lokuhetty oversees talent management, performance optimization, and the cultivation of a positive work environment across all banking operations in Sri Lanka. This executive position focuses on aligning HR strategies with the bank's overarching business goals, ensuring a skilled and engaged workforce for delivering superior personal and corporate banking solutions. By directing HR functions, Chryshanthi Lokuhetty plays a vital role in employee retention and fostering a culture of continuous learning. The Chief Human Resource Officer's contributions are key to building a robust and adaptable team.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Sampath Bank Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Sampath Bank?
    Sampath Bank is led by Shane Perera (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Sanjaya Gunawardana (Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director) and Ranjith Samaranayake (Executive Director and Group Chief Financial Officer).
    Who is part of Sampath Bank’s executive team?
    The executive team of Sampath Bank includes leaders such as Shane Perera (Chief Executive Officer), Sanjaya Gunawardana (Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director), Ranjith Samaranayake (Executive Director and Group Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Sampath Bank have?
    Sampath Bank has 9 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Sampath Bank’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Sampath Bank includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director, Executive Director and Group Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Chief Information Officer.