Hatton National Bank (HNB), one of Sri Lanka’s leading private sector banks, offers a wide range of banking and financial services including wholesale banking, retail and SME banking, microfinance, Islamic banking, international trade finance, and custodian and trustee services. The bank has a robust network of branches across Sri Lanka, making it accessible to customers nationwide. HNB is renowned for its innovation in the banking sector, having pioneered several digital banking initiatives to enhance customer experiences. The bank’s vision is to be customer-centric and innovative with a strong emphasis on sustainability.

Q: How do you define ‘corporate respect’ – and what does it take to earn and maintain it?

A: Earning and maintaining corporate respect entails the appreciation people have for a corporate based on its values and the value it creates for stakeholders, leading to top-of-mind recall for ethical behaviour. These elements are intertwined as our values must resonate with others and align with those that foster respect.

Clear communication of actions and values is essential in banking where consistent financial soundness and steady growth build trust and respect. The people behind the organisation must be accessible, honest and deliver on promises, ensuring actions align with words. Staying close to customers by understanding and adapting to diverse needs is crucial.

Creating value for stakeholders – including customers, shareholders, society and the economy – further builds respect. Supporting SMEs, facilitating exports and contributing to industrial growth exemplify this value creation. High staff retention rates indicate that employees feel valued and respected with many choosing to retire with us, reflecting their loyalty.

Q: What does it take to earn respect internationally? 

A: Establishing respect in our home market is crucial. Understanding and adapting to different corporate cultures and ethics is essential as local values may differ internationally.

We must be agile and respectful of local values, contributing positively to socioeconomic growth. Building strong relationships with respected overseas stakeholders and avoiding partnerships with unethical entities reinforce our commitment to sustainability.

Adhering to ethical standards and regulatory requirements enhances our credibility. Supporting local talent and contributing to socioeconomic development in host countries strengthens our reputation and fosters mutual respect.

Damith Pallewatte
Acting Chief Executive Officer

Q: How should corporates instil environmental, social and corporate governance (ESG) practices so that they contribute to garnering corporate respect?

A: HNB prioritises leading ESG initiatives, recognising that transitioning to green practices requires significant capital. ESG is integral to our business strategy and daily operations.

We assess environmental impacts and labour practices when evaluating financing requests, promoting responsible business conduct through our Environmental and Social Management Policy (ESMS).

Socially, we enhance financial literacy alongside lending, empowering customers and minimising borrowing risks. Our stringent governance standards ensure accountability and transparency, safeguarding depositor interests and maintaining operational integrity. ESG principles are embedded in our culture and operations.

Q: What role do employees play in corporate respect? 

A: Corporate respect involves two essential dimensions: internal culture and external perception. Internally, employees must uphold the organisation’s reputation by fostering a culture of mutual respect through continuous training and reinforcement.

Building such a culture is challenging but essential for genuine respect, from internal and external parties. If staff don’t value the organisation, customers won’t either. Hence, aligning actions with internal values is crucial. We must create an environment where employees feel valued and integral to organisational success, fostering a sense of belonging beyond routine tasks. Achieving this internal alignment enhances our ability to serve customers and communicate effectively, improving our external reputation and stakeholder respect.

QUICK-FIRE ROUND

Three vital ingredients that earn corporate respect

People
Culture
Consistent financial soundness

Three global organisations that you respect  

Apple
Visa/Mastercard
JPMorgan

HNB’s holistic approach to corporate respect – combining internal culture, external perception, ethical practices and stakeholder engagement – positions it as a respected and trusted institution. The bank understands that respect is built on consistent financial soundness, honesty and adapting to diverse customer segment needs.

Telephone 2462462 | Email hnbconnect@hnb.lk | Website www.hnb.net