Mastercard has made key leadership changes to enhance its operations in South Asia, focusing on a cohesive strategy for Sri Lanka, Maldives, Bangladesh, Nepal, and Bhutan. The growing interconnections among these nations, particularly regarding tourism, cross-border trade, and advancements in payment technologies, highlight the importance of this integration in scaling operations and demonstrate Mastercard’s dedication to fostering shared growth in these regions.
Effective immediately, Sandun Hapugoda has been appointed as the Group Country Manager for Sri Lanka, Maldives, Bangladesh, Nepal, and Bhutan. In his new role, he will oversee Mastercard’s initiatives across these markets, emphasizing the importance of strengthening partnerships and driving digital transformation.
Sandun has played a pivotal role in advancing Mastercard’s interests in Sri Lanka and the Maldives, achieving notable market growth and solidifying the company’s reputation as a reliable partner within the ecosystem. With a robust background in payments, digital banking, fintech, blockchain, and open banking, he has also made significant contributions to national policy through his involvement with various committees at the Central Bank of Sri Lanka, the Ministry of Technology, and the National Science Foundation. Additionally, he serves as the President of the American Chamber of Commerce in Sri Lanka.
In this new structure, Sandun will continue to report to Gautam Aggarwal, the Division President for South Asia at Mastercard.
Mahesha Amarasuriya has been promoted to the position of Country Manager for Sri Lanka, reporting directly to Sandun Hapugoda. Mahesha has been with Mastercard for four years, previously serving as the Director for Sri Lanka, where she contributed to expanding digital payment solutions and enhancing financial inclusion. With over 23 years of experience in corporate, retail, and private banking, as well as cards and electronic payments, she brings valuable expertise and leadership to her new role.
Mahesha holds a Bachelor’s degree with honors from the University of Colombo and an MBA from the Postgraduate Institute of Management at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura, where she graduated at the top of her class. She has held leadership positions in various professional organizations, including the CIMA Global Council, and has received multiple industry awards for her contributions.
“South Asia presents a vibrant and interconnected growth landscape for Mastercard. By integrating leadership across these five markets, we can better harness synergies in tourism, trade, and digital payments,” stated Gautam Aggarwal, Division President of South Asia at Mastercard. “Both Sandun and Mahesha possess profound market insights and a proven track record of implementation. Their leadership will be crucial in strengthening partnerships, accelerating digital initiatives, and reinforcing Mastercard’s position as a trusted partner in the ecosystem.”
www.mastercard.com
Photo caption: Left to right
Sandun Hapugoda – Group Country Manager for Sri Lanka, Maldives, Bangladesh, Nepal, and Bhutan.
Mahesha Amarasuriya – Country Manager for Sri Lanka.
Financial Chronicle Biz English | Sri Lanka Business News.
