Ceylinco Life has appointed Samitha Hemachandra as Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer, effective from 1 April.

The move reinforces the insurer’s leadership team amid sustained market dominance in Sri Lanka’s life insurance sector.

Hemachandra, a 25-year company veteran, joined Ceylinco Life in 2000 as Brand Manager and rose through senior roles, including Marketing General Manager. His tenure coincides with the firm’s 21-year streak as Sri Lanka’s top life insurer and multiple industry accolades, including: “Brand of the Year” (SLIM, 2022, 2023) and “Most Valuable Insurance Brand” (Brand Finance, 2023).

The appointment signals continuity in brand strategy and customer growth, areas where Hemachandra has direct expertise. His promotion follows Ceylinco Life’s recent recognition as People’s Life Insurance Service Provider of the Year for the 19th consecutive year (2025).

Ceylinco Life holds 37% market share in Sri Lanka’s life insurance sector, per 2024 data. Competitors (Including AIA and Union Assurance) have intensified digital and product innovation, making Hemachandra’s marketing and operational experience critical for maintaining dominance.