Business
OREL IT appoints Dr Upendra Pieris as CEO
OREL IT, a well reputed name synonymous with distinctive groundbreaking technology and innovation both in Sri Lanka and globally, recently appointed Dr. Upendra Pieris as its Chief Executive Officer who has been at the forefront of the company’s accelerated growth in his previous capacity as the Vice President to the organization.
In his new role, Dr. Upendra will continue to share his visionary leadership, knowledge and direction across the company and steer it to be a global technology partner for industrial and commercial challenges and innovation, enabling endless possibilities through industry 4.0 whilst impacting and enriching lives and communities.
With decades of experience in the global IT industry, Dr. Upendra is the inspiration behind Orel IT’s incredible success within a short span of time. He is a renowned professional in various fields to include AI Vision Solutions, IT Services Management, Business Analysis, Project Planning and Management, and Software Process Management among others.
OREL IT has grown exponentially from a two-person fraternity to a 4,500 plus strong company in just over a decade. It is a fully owned subsidiary of Orel Corporation which has today evolved into a highly sought-after multi-vertical player with core interests in building infrastructure, digital infrastructure, digital commerce, education, IOT, transportation, healthcare, with presence in six continents.
Recently, Dr. Upendra was also inducted as Member of the prestigious Forbes Technology Council, an invitation-only organization that brings together some of the world’s leading and emerging CIOs, CTOs, and technology executives and entrepreneurs.
Dr. Upendra has contributed immensely to the IT industry of Sri Lanka, encouraging and inspiring young professionals to be confident, aspiring, and innovative leaders with a strategic, conscious mindset. He actively takes part as a speaker in many industry forums and discussions. He is presently an Executive Committee Member for AI Center of Excellence and Entrepreneurship Forum at Sri Lanka Association for Software and Services Companies (SLASSCOM), and Digital Chapter and Software Chapter of the Federation of Information Technology Industry Sri Lanka (FITIS).
He is also a Board Director of the ICT Industry Skills Council and an Advisory Committee Member for the IT/BPM Sector at the Sri Lanka Export Development Board. Last year, he obtained a doctorate in information technology from the European International University in Paris. Dr. Upendra continues his dedication and commitment to help bridge the gaps to increase digital literacy in Sri Lanka and indulges in various socially responsible causes and initiatives.
Under Dr. Upendra’s leadership, the company has been consecutively recognized with many awards such as NCE Export Awards by National Chamber of Exporters of Sri Lanka (NCE), Entrepreneur Awards – Western Province by National Chamber of Commerce of Sri Lanka (NCCSL), and Presidential Export Awards.
Throughout its corporate vocation since 2010, OREL IT provides end-to-end technology solutions such as Data Services, mobile and software development; R&D, cyber security, including AI and machine learning, to a world class client base serving in 13 diverse industries across the globe. In fact, the company’s unwavering focus on these technologies coupled with the potentiality of its spirited team has made Orel IT to stand firm and strong in the global IT industry as a leading business entity at present.
Business
AHK Sri Lanka champions first-ever Sri Lankan delegation at Drupa 2024
The Delegation of German Industry and Commerce in Sri Lanka (AHK Sri Lanka) proudly facilitated the first-ever Sri Lankan delegation’s participation at Drupa 2024, the world’s largest trade fair for the printing industry and technology. Held after an eight-year hiatus, Drupa 2024 was a landmark event, marking significant advancements and opportunities in the global printing industry.
AHK Sri Lanka played a pivotal role in organising and supporting the delegation, which comprised 17 members from the Sri Lanka Association for Printers (SLAP), representing eight companies from the commercial, newspaper, stationery printing, and packaging industries. This pioneering effort by AHK Sri Lanka not only showcased the diverse capabilities of Sri Lanka’s printing sector but also facilitated vital bilateral discussions with key stakeholders from the German printing industry.
Business
Unveiling Ayugiri: Browns Hotels & Resorts sets the stage for a new era in luxury Ayurveda Wellness
In a captivating reimagining of luxury wellness tourism, Browns Hotels & Resorts proudly unveiled the exquisite Ayugiri Ayurveda Wellness Resort Sigiriya. This momentous occasion, celebrated amidst a vibrant and serene grand opening on the 6th of June, heralds a new chapter in the Ayurveda wellness tourism landscape in Sri Lanka. Nestled amidst 54 acres of unspoiled natural splendour, Ayugiri features 22 exclusive suites and stands out as the only luxury Ayurveda wellness resort in the country offering plunge pools in every room, rendering it truly one-of-a-kind.
The grand opening of Ayugiri Ayurveda Wellness Resort was an enchanting event, where guests were captivated by the melodies of flutists and violinists resonating through Sigiriya’s lush landscapes. As traditional drummers and dancers infused the air with vibrant energy, Browns Hotels & Resorts’ CEO, Eksath Wijeratne, Kotaro Katsuki, Acting Ambassador for the Embassy of Japan and General Manager, Buwaneka Bandara, unveiled the resort’s new logo, marking a significant moment witnessed by distinguished guests from the French Embassy, Ayurveda and wellness enthusiasts along with officials from the Sigiriya area, LOLC Holdings and Browns Group.
“Our strategic expansion into wellness tourism with Ayugiri Ayurveda Wellness Resort Sigiriya symbolises a significant milestone for Browns Hotels & Resorts. Wellness tourism has consistently outperformed the overall tourism industry for over a decade, reflecting a growing global interest in travel that goes beyond leisure to offer rejuvenation and holistic well-being. By integrating the timeless wisdom of Ayurveda with modern luxury, we aim to set a new standard in luxury wellness tourism in Sri Lanka. Whether your goal is prevention, healing, or a deeper connection to inner harmony, Ayugiri offers a sanctuary for holistic well-being” stated Eksath Wijeratne.
Ayugiri encapsulates the essence of life, inspired by the lotus flower held by the graceful queens of the infamous Sigiriya frescoes. Just as the lotus emerges from the murky depths, untainted and serene,
Ayugiri invites guests on a journey of purity and rejuvenation, harmonised with a balance of mind, body and spirit, the essence of nature, echoes of culture and the wisdom of ancient Ayurvedic healing.
Business
HNB General Insurance recognized as Best General Bancassurance Provider in Sri Lanka 2024
HNB General Insurance, one of Sri Lanka’s leading general insurance providers, has been honored as the Best General Bancassurance Provider in Sri Lanka 2024 by the prestigious Global Banking and Finance Review – UK.
The esteemed accolade underscores HNB General Insurance’s unwavering commitment to excellence and its outstanding performance in the field of bancassurance. Through dedication and hard work, the HNB General Insurance team has continuously endeavored to deliver innovative insurance solutions, cultivate strong relationships with banking partners, and provide unparalleled service to customers nationwide. This recognition is a testament to the team’s dedication and relentless pursuit of excellence in the bancassurance business.
“We are honored to receive this prestigious award, which reflects our team’s tireless efforts and dedication to delivering value-added insurance solutions and exceptional service through our bancassurance partnerships,” said Sithumina Jayasundara, CEO of HNB General Insurance. “This recognition reaffirms our position as a trusted insurance provider in Sri Lanka and motivates us to continue striving for excellence in serving our customers and communities.”