Stasshani Jayawardene Ascends to Chairperson Role at Aitken Spence PLC

• Sri Lankan blue chip conglomerate Aitken Spence PLC has appointed Stasshani Jayawardena as Chairman.
• Leveraging her global business exposure and knowledge, Stasshani is set to propel company’s expansion
• She visions to create emerging opportunities in group’s multiple key sectors

Aitken Spence PLC, a Sri Lankan blue chip conglomerate, has made a pivotal shift in its corporate leadership by naming Ms. D S T Jayawardena (Stasshani Jayawardena) as the new Chairman of the Group, following and mourning the loss of Group’s former Chairman and business tycoon Deshamanya D H S Jayawardena (Harry Jayawardena). Aitken Spence has grown multi-fold under his visionary leadership and enduring contributors, shaping the organization’s current trajectory.

Banking upon her global business exposure and knowledge, Stasshani thrives on her experience of over 15 years to steer the company to unprecedented success. Her strong academic background from institutions such as Keele University, the Emeritus Institute of Management, and the University of Cambridge’s Judge Business School, helps establish and reaffirm her commitment toward new found responsibilities.

Strengthening the group’s governance framework, Mr. M R Mihular steps into the position of Senior Independent Director. Banking upon group’s established foundation in key sectors like Tourism, Logistics and Strategic Investments, Stasshani visions to create and maximize emerging opportunities.

Serving Sri Lanka along with operations diversified among several continents, Aitken Spence PLC strategically strives to achieve its long-term vision and continued success. These new appointments rightfully compliment with Board’s strategic oversight.

“She has been managing and providing strategic direction to Aitken Spence Group Companies, including the leisure sector, and carries a wealth of knowledge and experience crucial for the continuous growth of the Aitken Spence Group, adhering to the vision of the late Deshamanya D H S Jayawardena,” the company stated in a filing. In an official disclosure, the announcement was made on February 8, 2025 on Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE).