Sarvodaya Development Finance PLC has officially appointed Ms. Sashi Adele Schaffter as a Non-Executive, Non-Independent Director, effective April 2, 2026. In this role, Ms. Schaffter will act on behalf of the company’s shareholder, Janashakthi Ltd (referred to as “JXG” or Janashakthi Group).
Ms. Schaffter’s appointment enhances the Board’s capabilities to guide the company’s strategic initiatives and governance frameworks, especially as it seeks to further its influence within Sri Lanka’s financial services arena. She offers a unique combination of legal, financial, and strategic knowledge, supported by her extensive experience in corporate finance, advisory services, and legal research.
Qualified as a barrister in the United Kingdom, Ms. Schaffter achieved her call to the Bar of England and Wales at the Honorable Society of the Inner Temple with Distinction. Her diverse professional background integrates legal expertise with hands-on experience in corporate finance and strategic consulting.
Currently, she holds the position of Vice President – Corporate Finance at First Capital Holdings PLC, where she is a key member of the First Capital Advisory Services team. Ms. Schaffter is a passionate supporter of financial empowerment as well as mental health and well-being. In her current role, she focuses on delivering financial and strategic solutions, particularly in navigating complex corporate transactions and advisory projects.
Before her tenure at First Capital Holdings PLC, Ms. Schaffter worked as an Apprentice Director at JXG, where she spearheaded strategic planning initiatives at the group level and contributed to long-term organizational development efforts. Her dual experience in financial and strategic roles is expected to provide valuable insights for the Board of Sarvodaya Development Finance PLC.
Ms. Schaffter’s academic achievements further underscore her professional qualifications. She earned an LLB (Hons) from SOAS, University of London, and an LLM in Human Rights from Queen Mary University of London.
Her appointment is timely, as effective governance, strategic oversight, and informed financial leadership are crucial in responding to the dynamic challenges within Sri Lanka’s financial sector. Given her background in corporate finance, legal analysis, and strategic planning, Ms. Schaffter is poised to make significant contributions to the Board’s discussions and to the ongoing development of the company.
Sarvodaya Development Finance PLC extends a warm welcome to Ms. Schaffter and anticipates the insights and contributions she will bring to support the institution’s growth, governance standards, and long-term goals.
