In today’s fast-evolving corporate world, leaders are increasingly called upon to blend business acumen with empathy, innovation, and a commitment to social good. Few embody this balance as seamlessly as Kushlani Perera, Head of Corporate Affairs, Procurement, and Supply Chain at Premium International (Pvt) Ltd, one of Sri Lanka’s leading healthcare conglomerates. With over two decades of experience across Human Resources, Administration, and Corporate Affairs, Kushlani has built a career defined by versatility and resilience. A proud alumna of St. Sebastian’s Convent, she holds an MBA from Cardiff Metropolitan University and a PQHRM from CIPM Sri Lanka.
Beyond her corporate achievements, she is deeply passionate about women’s empowerment and community development, contributing actively through Women in Management (WIM) and numerous CSR projects. In this conversation, she shares insights into her journey, challenges, and aspirations, offering a powerful reminder that leadership is as much about people and purpose as it is about strategy.
Q Can you share a little about your early life and the experiences that shaped your professional aspirations?
As the elder child with a younger sister, I naturally grew up with a strong sense of responsibility and accountability. My parents, especially my mother, gave me significant freedom while still offering guidance. That balance nurtured both my creativity and independence. At school, I thrived not just in academics but in extracurriculars. I was fortunate to hold leadership positions such as Western Band Leader and Head Prefect, which gave me early exposure to decision-making and team management. I also had the gift of a peaceful childhood, something I will always be grateful for, as it gave me the stability and confidence to explore my interests. Looking back, those formative years gave me both the discipline and the imagination that have shaped my career journey.
Q What motivated you to pursue a career in Corporate Affairs, Procurement, and Supply Chain Management?
Interestingly, my initial qualifications leaned towards Human Capital Management. However, my current role opened the door to Corporate Affairs, Procurement, and Supply Chain, allowing me to expand my skillset. I discovered that I truly enjoyed the challenges of problem-solving, finding innovative solutions, and negotiating. This field is both dynamic and demanding. The job growth, constant exposure to new technologies, and evolving management practices make it intellectually stimulating. Every day brings new challenges that push me to think strategically while also adapting quickly. That blend of excitement and responsibility keeps me motivated and deeply engaged in this work.
Q Could you tell us more about your experience in the Competency Development Program for Future Business Leaders in South Asia (BLSA) in Japan, and how it shaped your perspective on leadership?
Being selected for the BLSA program, organized by JASTECA under their Japanese scholarship initiatives, was truly life changing. It was a thoughtfully structured 16-day residential program that combined universal management principles with Japan’s unique cross-cultural values and philosophies.
The highlights were the field visits to the Toyota and Kawasaki factories, which gave me firsthand exposure to Japanese efficiency and management practices. I learned how deeply culture influences leadership styles and how respect, precision, and discipline drive organizational success in Japan. This multicultural immersion shaped how I see leadership today. It taught me that effective leaders must be adaptable, empathetic, and culturally sensitive. It also connected me to AOTS Japan, where I am now an associate lifetime member and currently serve on the JASTECA Executive Committee in Sri Lanka, giving back to the program that inspired me so much.
Interestingly, my initial qualifications leaned towards Human Capital Management. However, my current role opened the door to Corporate Affairs, Procurement, and Supply Chain, allowing me to expand my skillset
Q As the Head of Corporate Affairs, Procurement, and Supply Chain at Premium International, what are some of the key challenges you face, and how do you address them?
The sheer breadth of my responsibilities is itself a challenge. The healthcare industry is rapidly evolving, and implementing change, whether technological, structural, or cultural, can often face resistance. Balancing strategic decisions with the expectations of leaders, teams, and external stakeholders requires patience and resilience. For me, self-awareness has been crucial. By understanding my strengths and limitations, staying confident, and critically analysing situations, I can adapt quickly. I also try to see issues from others’ perspectives before acting. Methodical planning and transparent communication are my go-to strategies for overcoming challenges. When people understand the “why” behind decisions, they’re more willing to come onboard.
Q Corporate social responsibility (CSR) is a major part of your work, what initiatives are you most proud of?
CSR is close to my heart because it allows me to align my professional role with my personal values. One project that stands out is establishing a community centre after the tsunami, which became a nurturing space for children in southern Sri Lanka. Seeing those children grow into confident young adults contributing to society today fills me with pride. I’ve also led projects for schoolchildren in areas like Aranayake, Ampara, and Theppankulama. These initiatives weren’t just about providing aid, but about empowering children with skills and opportunities. I firmly believe that “teaching someone how to catch a fish is far more valuable than simply feeding them.” Premium International has always supported these endeavours generously, and my involvement with Women in Management (WIM) has also opened doors to contribute to numerous meaningful CSR projects. Giving back to those who cannot repay you is, for me, the ultimate satisfaction.
Q How do you balance the commercial, administrative, and social aspects of your role effectively?
Balancing these aspects comes down to prioritization and time management. I make a conscious effort to set boundaries, delegate tasks, and structure my day around what truly matters. My supportive family has been a blessing, they stand by me through every challenge, and I’m equally grateful for my reliable team at Premium International, who are always ready to share responsibilities. This synergy between home and work allows me to stay grounded while still giving my best to the multiple dimensions of my role.
Q What advice would you give to women aspiring to leadership roles in traditionally male-dominated industries like healthcare and supply chain?
The first step is to stop seeing the industry as “male-dominated.” Gender should never be the focus. What matters is your commitment, dedication, and willingness to grow.
Build relationships that bring positivity into your life, accept challenges with confidence, and remain focused on your goals. Self-awareness is also critical; you must know your strengths and be ready to develop areas where you need improvement. When you bring this kind of clarity and resilience to your career, nothing can hold you back.
Q Being both a dedicated professional and a mother, how has your family life influenced your approach to leadership and decision-making at work?
Motherhood has deeply shaped my leadership style. It has taught me patience, empathy, and the importance of emotional intelligence. Balancing family responsibilities with work demands forces you to sharpen your organizational skills and prioritization abilities. At work, this translates into more focused decision-making and an ability to handle different personalities with care. Just as in a family, a workplace requires mediation, understanding, and collaboration. I believe that being both a mother and a professional has made me more compassionate, but also more efficient, as I have to make every moment count.
Q What has been your most challenging professional moment, and how did you overcome it?
The past few years in Sri Lanka have been tough for every industry. Between the global pandemic, political instability, and economic recession, many situations were beyond anyone’s control. In such times, my strategy was to stay grounded. Instead of making big leaps or risky investments, I chose to “go with the flow” while focusing on short-term, gradual improvements. These smaller steps didn’t disrupt stability but still created progress. It was about resilience, patience, and making sure the organization could survive and adapt until conditions improved.
Q Looking ahead, what are your personal and professional aspirations for the next 5–10 years?
My aspiration is simple: to be the best version of myself. Titles, positions, and milestones are secondary to continuous self-improvement. I want to keep learning, stay motivated, and push myself to the next level, whatever that may be. Personal growth is a lifelong commitment. Age or timelines don’t define it. What matters is the willingness to evolve, stay curious, and embrace every challenge with positivity.
RAPID FIRE ROUND
- Morning person or night owl? Night owl.
- Coffee or tea? Tea, always.
- Favourite travel destination? The beach; nothing beats its calm and beauty.
- Book or movie? Movie.
- Biggest motivator at work? Myself: I push myself to grow and achieve.
- Preferred leadership style; hands-on or delegator? It depends on the situation, but most of the time I’m hands-on.
- Most rewarding part of your job? The self-satisfaction it brings, and the freedom to work independently with minimal interference.
- Biggest challenge you’ve overcome? Balancing being a full-time career woman and a mother.
- Role models in business? Sreema Liyanage
