In a world where corporate structures often reinforce convention and resist disruption, Tania Polonnowita Wettimuny stands out as a force of transformation. As the Group Managing Director of IAS Holdings (Pvt) Ltd, Tania leads one of Sri Lanka’s most dynamic logistics firms, comprising three subsidiaries, more than 400 employees, and an annual turnover of LKR 15 billion.
Her rise to prominence is not just about numbers. It is about redefining leadership in an industry historically dominated by men. Tania has earned a string of accolades. She was named among the 50 Most Powerful Businesswomen in Sri Lanka, became the first female Chairperson of the Sri Lanka Logistics and Freight Forwarders Association (SLFFA), and is the only woman from the ASEAN region selected for the EY Entrepreneurial Winning Women Asia Pacific 2023 programme. Yet, for all the milestones, it is her humility and conviction that resonate most deeply. A proud alumna of HFC Kurunegala and Hillwood College Kandy, she merges discipline and empathy with sharp business acumen and a deep desire to uplift other women. In this exclusive conversation, Tania shares the mindset, values and defining moments that have shaped her path not just as an entrepreneur, but as a legacy builder.
What traits helped you lead boldly in a male-dominated industry?
I have never believed in glass ceilings. They exist only if you accept them. Every step I have taken was driven by my commitment to thrive, regardless of the obstacles. I naturally lean toward optimism. I tend to see the best in people and situations, which has built my resilience and inner strength. I follow my instincts, work harder than anyone else, and stay rooted in who I am. Leadership has never been about blending in. It is about standing out in a good way and owning your space with conviction. Negativity never distracted me. I stayed true to my values and simply did not allow limits to define me.
What must a modern leader embody today?
Real leadership goes far beyond financial targets. Leaders today need empathy, adaptability, integrity and vision. Too often, success is defined only by numbers. But the world is evolving quickly. A successful leader must be able to listen, inspire growth, create career paths and foster inclusive environments. For me, leadership is about trust and authenticity. That is what creates long-term value.
How did your time at Hillwood College shape your identity?
Boarding school taught me resilience, independence and discipline. These qualities have stayed with me throughout my life and career. Being away from home at a young age helped me grow quickly, build strong friendships and find my voice. It gave me a sense of responsibility that has shaped the way I lead.
Any childhood memories that hint at your future path?
My childhood was peaceful and happy. We were not pushed to focus only on academics but were raised with strong human values like kindness, respect and compassion. Those early lessons became the foundation for the kind of leader I am today. They taught me to lead with empathy and show care, especially during difficult times.
What does growth mean to you, and where do you see yourself in five years?
Growth means constantly evolving as a leader and as a person. It is about stepping out of your comfort zone, learning from difficult moments and finding ways to create meaningful impact. Personally, it is about finding success that aligns with who I truly am. Over the next five years, I want to scale my business and mentor the next generation of women leaders. I want to build something that is not only profitable but also purposeful.
What is one bold decision you made that others doubted but proved pivotal?
Leaving the security of a multinational to start my own company was the boldest decision I have ever made. After 16 years in the logistics and supply chain industry, I realised I wanted to build something for myself. Many well-meaning people advised me against it, but my mind was made up. In late 2017, we started our first subsidiary with a small team and a big dream. Today, IAS Holdings includes three logistics firms, two of which are joint ventures including one with a leading multinational, and generates more than LKR 15 billion in revenue with a team of over 400 people.
As SLFFA’s first female Chairperson, what shifts are still needed to bring more women to the top?
Too many women still miss out on leadership opportunities either because they are not invited to the table or because they do not recognise the seat that is already there. Women bring empathy, collaboration and resilience to the table. These are powerful leadership traits. We need to stop clinging to outdated models that say leadership has to look or act a certain way. I am thankful that our industry has not followed that old-school thinking. What we need now are policies that support true flexibility, cultures that reward merit, and mentorship that lifts women up. We must change the system so that it works for everyone.
What is one myth about female leadership you would like to see disappear?
The belief that women are too emotional to lead is outdated and harmful. Emotional intelligence is a strength. It helps us build stronger teams, resolve conflict with empathy and lead with greater understanding. Compassion is not a weakness. It is one of our greatest leadership assets.
What advice would you give your 20-year-old self?
Trust your gut, because it is usually right. But be careful who you trust. Not everyone has your best interests at heart. Some of the biggest lessons will come from trusting the wrong people. Be kind, but do not confuse kindness with naivety. You can be warm and still have strong boundaries. Protect your dreams and choose your circle wisely.
How do you find stillness in a hectic schedule?
My morning workouts are non-negotiable. They help me clear my mind and start the day grounded. I also prioritise quality time with family and friends. Even something as simple as sharing a homemade meal helps me stay centred. Stillness, to me, is about being present. Whether I am lifting weights or sharing a laugh, those moments recharge me.
What misstep taught you the most valuable lesson?
Early in my journey, I placed trust in people who did not share my values. I ignored red flags because I was eager to grow. That mistake taught me to be more discerning. It reminded me to protect what I am building and to always lead with integrity.
Who inspires you and why?
Indra Nooyi, the former CEO of PepsiCo, is one of my biggest inspirations. Her rise from Chennai to leading a global brand is remarkable. She was fearless in her decisions, grounded in her values and led with both intelligence and heart. She did not try to blend in. She stood out and led with authenticity. I try to carry that same mix of courage, compassion and conviction in my own leadership journey.
What role does mentorship play in your leadership philosophy?
Mentorship is at the heart of how I lead. It is not enough to reach the top if you do not bring others with you. Senior women must make room for younger women, call out bias, and advocate for each other. Sharing our journeys, both the highs and the challenges, helps others feel less alone. Mentorship should be rooted in honesty and connection. When one of us rises, it lifts all of us.
What has been your most fulfilling career moment?
Starting my own company has been the most fulfilling decision. It was not about proving others wrong. It was about proving to myself that I could build something grounded in purpose. Every milestone since then has been a reminder that betting on myself was worth it.
How do your personal traits strengthen your professional edge?
Being organised keeps me on top of things, even if others find it overwhelming. Fitness gives me discipline and focus. And my spiritual side helps me stay grounded and not let negativity get in the way. These traits are not just personal habits. They are what help me show up fully as a leader.
How has your idea of work-life balance evolved?
Work-life balance is not about doing everything at once. It is about being present with whatever matters most at that moment. In the past, I thought balance meant perfection. Now, I understand it means making intentional choices. Some days work takes over. Other days, family does. And that is okay. Balance is about boundaries and grace.
What has building a blended family taught you?
Creating a blended family has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my life. It has shown me that love is not perfect. It is patient, messy and deeply rewarding. As a leader, it taught me that not everything can be controlled. Sometimes, the best outcomes come from letting go and trusting the process. Love and leadership both require empathy, openness and a willingness to grow.
How would you like to be remembered?
I hope people remember that I led with kindness. That I showed up, made others feel seen and left things better than I found them. Titles and achievements matter, but what stays with people is how you treated them. That is the legacy I want to leave behind.
What advice would you give to the next generation of female leaders?
Go for it. Your background does not define your potential. Whether you grew up with privilege or faced hardship, whether you went to the right school or none at all, what matters is your belief in yourself. Do not wait for permission or perfect conditions. You belong at the table. So, take the leap. And trust that you are ready.
