Industry Economy & Growth

Yasas Hewage Assumes Duties as IDB Chairman

Yasas Hewage assumed duties as Chairman of the Industrial Development Board (IDB) on 1 June 2026, taking leadership of one of Sri Lanka’s longest-standing enterprise development institutions with a proud legacy spanning 60 years.

Hewage brings nearly 20 years of experience in banking, finance, business strategy, entrepreneurship development, sales and marketing, and sports tourism. Prior to his appointment, he served as Private Secretary to the Deputy Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development.

He also serves as a member of several national initiatives, including the SME Nexus Initiative, the National SME Strategy Framework Development Team, and the Institutional Transformation Leadership Team supporting the establishment of the proposed Entrepreneurship and Industry Transformation Authority (EITA).

During his banking career with HSBC and NDB Bank, Hewage held leadership roles in retail banking, SME business development, strategy, and branch banking. At NDB Bank, he contributed to business transformation and strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing growth, competitiveness, and customer engagement.

Hewage is also known for his work in entrepreneurship development and executive coaching, having worked with thousands of entrepreneurs, business owners, executives, and professionals across Sri Lanka.

Commenting on his appointment, Hewage emphasized the need for Sri Lanka to build a new era of industrial excellence by drawing inspiration from the country's historical achievements while embracing technology, innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainability.

"Sri Lanka's industrial transformation must be built on a deep appreciation of our past and a bold vision for the future," he said, noting that the country's rich heritage in engineering and manufacturing should serve as a foundation for future industrial development.