SDB bank Names Manoj Akmeemana Deputy Chief Executive Officer

SDB bank warmly welcomes Mr. Manoj Akmeemana as its Deputy Chief Executive Officer, marking a significant leadership appointment as the Bank continues to strengthen its executive capacity to support long-term growth, sharper execution, and stronger institutional resilience.

A highly accomplished banking professional with over 35 years of experience in the financial services sector, Mr. Akmeemana brings deep expertise across corporate lending, credit administration, recoveries, legal coordination, and risk management, with a strong track record in driving business transformation through strategic initiatives. Over the years, he has played an active role in enhancing portfolio quality through structured credit oversight, including the restructuring and resolution of distressed portfolios, a critical area for sustainable banking performance, governance, and stability.

Prior to joining SDB bank, Mr. Akmeemana held several senior leadership roles at Sampath Bank PLC, building a reputation for delivering results in complex, high-impact functions spanning credit, risk, and operational oversight. He last served as Senior Deputy General Manager – Credit Control, Credit Administration, Recoveries and Legal, leading teams focused on strengthening credit discipline, improving monitoring frameworks, and ensuring alignment with regulatory and internal policy requirements. His career reflects consistent recognition for combining strategic thinking with hands-on execution, particularly in environments requiring decisive leadership and cross-functional coordination.

Mr. Akmeemana is widely recognised for formulating and implementing financial strategies that enhance profitability, improve operational efficiency, and reinforce compliance standards. He has demonstrated strong stakeholder engagement capabilities and an ability to lead multi-disciplinary teams, navigating complex operating conditions while implementing growth strategies anchored in sound credit and risk fundamentals.

In his new role, Mr. Akmeemana will support SDB bank’s leadership team in driving strategic priorities, strengthening enterprise-wide performance, and advancing initiatives aimed at building a more agile, future-ready organisation. His depth of experience is expected to add significant value as SDB bank accelerates its transformation agenda while maintaining robust governance and risk management frameworks.

SDB bank noted that this appointment reflects its commitment to bringing on board experienced leaders who can contribute to sustained growth and long-term value creation. The Bank looks forward to working closely with Mr. Akmeemana as it continues to strengthen institutional capability and deliver stronger outcomes for customers and stakeholders.

About SDB bank:

A future-ready bank, dedicated to offering customer-centric and comprehensive support tailored to each individual's needs, SDB bank is a licensed specialized bank regulated by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka, with a listing on the Main Board of the Colombo Stock Exchange and a Fitch Rating of BB +(lka). Through the network of 94 branches island-wide, the bank provides a comprehensive range of financial services to its Retail, SME, Co-operative, and Business Banking clients across the country. Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles are deeply ingrained in SDB bank's ethos, with a steadfast focus on uplifting local communities and businesses through sustainable practices. The bank is particularly committed to promoting women's empowerment, sustainable development of SMEs, and digital inclusion, aiming to propel Sri Lanka to new heights.

Mr. Manoj Akmeemana – Deputy Chief Executive Officer 

SDB bank