VISION IN ACTION
“Leadership is not about being in charge. It is about taking care of those in your charge,” wrote author Simon Sinek. In every era, progress has been driven by individuals who dare to think differently – those who see opportunity and lead with courage when circumstances demand.
In the world of business, these individuals are the true champions – the visionaries who guide organisations through shifting tides and inspire others to achieve more than they believed possible.
Corporate Champions celebrates these leaders; the CEOs, chairpersons, and organisations whose influence extends beyond boardrooms and financial statements. They are pillars of innovation, resilience and trust in a world where these qualities are more important than ever.
At a time when global markets are redefined by technology, geopolitics and societal change, leadership itself has evolved. Today’s corporate leaders must balance agility with accountability, growth with governance and innovation with empathy.
This inaugural edition of Corporate Champions pays tribute to those who lead with both competence and conscience – individuals who understand that success is not measured merely by profit but also by purpose and impact. The leaders featured in this publication recognise that while technology may power progress, it is people who sustain it.
From steering conglomerates through economic headwinds to pioneering new ventures, these leaders share a common belief in the transformative power of leadership. As author John C. Maxwell reminds us, “a leader is one who knows the way, goes the way and shows the way.”
The modern leader operates in a world defined by complexity – yet, it is within this complexity that true leadership emerges. Those who succeed see possibility, whereas others see risk; who value collaboration; and who believe that ethical leadership is a necessity. As activist Ralph Nader aptly says, “the function of leadership is to produce more leaders, not more followers.”
Today, leadership is no longer confined to titles. It is a mindset – one that encourages inclusivity, champions innovation and builds cultures of continuous learning. The corporate champions are mentors and catalysts for change.
Sri Lanka’s corporate landscape has always reflected the character of its people – resilient, adaptable and grounded in strong values. Through economic shifts, global disruptions and political upheavals, our business leaders have continued to demonstrate a spirit of optimism and resolve.
Corporate Champions is a tribute to those who lead with heart and vision – who inspire trust, embrace change and believe that true success is shared. As scholar Warren Bennis says, “leadership is the capacity to translate vision into reality.”
