CORPORATE DYNAMISM
Adaptability is pivotal
Ray Abeywardena
“Make sure that every decision, no matter how dynamic it is, aligns with the organisation’s overall goals”
In an unpredictable and fast-moving business world, adaptability is essential. And for Ray Abeywardena, agility begins not with processes or systems but the right mindset. “There is a saying I often come back to – ‘It’s not the strongest of the species that survives, nor the most intelligent but the ones that are most responsive to change.’ I believe the same applies to organisations,” he says.
According to him, the ability to stay agile begins with being truly receptive to change – not merely tolerating it but embracing change as a way of operating.
He emphasises that agility is about building a culture where adaptability becomes second nature. This requires creating an environment where people feel confident to challenge the status quo, take ownership and respond quickly to market shifts.
In his experience, teams that are empowered and aligned with a clear purpose are far more capable of pivoting when needed – not out of fear but out of readiness.
Abeywardena elaborates: “It’s not about reacting to every trend but about recognising when change is necessary, and having the willingness to move forward with clarity and intent.”
SUSTAINING GROWTH Abeywardena is clear that long-term success depends on staying relevant: “Relevance is never a given. It has to be earned continually.” In his view, this begins with being proactive.
He continues: “It’s not enough to respond to change; we need to anticipate it, identify shifts early and act before we’re forced to.”
This forward-thinking approach is reflected in three strategic priorities: staying closely attuned to evolving client needs, building a future ready workforce and embedding innovation into daily thinking.
Abeywardena notes that technology, especially AI, plays a critical role in helping organisations stay ahead. He continues: “In today’s world, this also means being tech driven and supported by AI. These tools help us uncover insights, predict patterns and unlock new opportunities – but they only matter if we’re ready to act on what they reveal.”
LEADING WITH FORESIGHT In his view, credibility and respect are amplified when organisations lead with foresight.
He explains: “When leaders act with foresight, it builds trust. I have found that being proactive – especially during times of uncertainty – sends a strong message to employees, clients and the wider market that we are not simply reacting to the present but also planning for the future.”
Abeywardena believes that respect grows when people see an organisation confronting challenges head-on, even when the answers aren’t immediately clear. That mindset demonstrates resilience, maturity and leadership.
Whether it’s emerging technologies or changing customer behaviour, businesses that consistently lead move early.
He recalls: “We saw this with blockchain and cryptocurrencies and now, the conversation is rapidly shifting towards Web3. It’s not a buzzword; it is instead, a re-imagination of how value, ownership and interaction will work online. Staying ahead means tracking these shifts, experimenting early and being ready to move when the moment is right.”
Abeywardena stresses that while agility is critical, it must be balanced with stability and values. “If I had to sum it up in one phrase, it would be ‘goal congruence.’ That is to make sure that every decision, no matter how dynamic it is, aligns with the organisation’s overall goals.”
FUTURE DISRUPTIONS He foresees several major disruptions ranging from AI and automation, to shifting consumer expectations and a redefinition of workplace dynamics.
“I believe that organisations that can combine digital readiness with strong leadership clarity and cultural agility will thrive,” he declares.
And in his opinion, preparing for disruption means investing in both technology and people: “Not one at the expense of the other. It is about ensuring that teams have both the tools and mindsets to navigate what’s next.”
Abeywardena makes one thing clear: “In a world defined by constant change, the real differentiator isn’t only speed. It’s the ability to evolve with purpose.”
