Dr. Hans to step down from Axiata Group to lead SL’s digital economy agenda

Axiata Group’s Dr. Hans Wijayasuriya will relinquish his position as CEO of Telecommunications Business and Group Executive Director and lead Sri Lanka’s digital economy agenda, in the capacity of Chief Advisor to President on Digital Economy and other related leadership roles.
Dr. Wijayasuriya has duly accepted the invitation from the government of Sri Lanka and will take up the new role from January 15, 2025.
While the board of directors of Axiata has accepted his decision to relinquish his position from the effective date, during the interim period, Dr. Wijayasuriya’s responsibilities to Axiata will continue, including the execution of a transition programme while he makes himself available for the government’s digital transformation initiatives on an advisory and non-executive basis. 

Dr. Wijayasuriya records a tenure of over 30 years with Axiata and its predecessor, Telekom Malaysia. He heads the pan-region telecommunications operations of the group, spanning the markets of Malaysia, Indonesia, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Cambodia. 
Dr. Wijayasuriya also served on the board of directors of the GSMA, the governing body of the global mobile industry. He is an active contributor and champion of technology as well as developmental advancements in the mobile industry and was honoured with the GSMA Chairman’s Award in 2024, the highest recognition by the GSMA, for his outstanding contributions to the global mobile industry.
Commenting on the new role, Dr. Wijesuriya said, “I am honoured by the invitation extended to me by the government of Sri Lanka and I stand privileged to have the opportunity to contribute to my country. As I embark on this new chapter, I am deeply aware that every learning I possess, I owe to the leadership and colleagues, past and present, from across the Axiata group. To them, I will always be grateful.”
Axiata Chairman Tan Sri Shahril Ridza Ridzuan noted that Dr. Wijesuriya, in his 30 years with the group, has been a pivotal force in shaping the company’s strategic direction. 
“He has also played an integral role in nurturing a deep reservoir of talent within the organisation. The Axiata board congratulates Dr. Hans Wijayasuriya on his appointment and is confident that his visionary leadership will contribute to Sri Lanka’s digital future,” he said.
Axiata Group Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director Vivek Sood stated that it is a great honour and source of pride for Axiata that one of its senior leaders has been selected to join the government of Sri Lanka in a highly influential role, contributing to the transformation of the country’s digital economy. 
“His extensive expertise in telecommunications, technology transformation and digitisation will bring tremendous value to Sri Lanka. Dr. Wijayasuriya’s appointment reflects the depth of Axiata’s commitment to nurturing exceptional leaders who drive change both within our industry and beyond,” he said.
“He has been instrumental in advancing our Telco-TechCo agenda and strengthening our portfolio with the aim of delivering long-term value to our shareholders. Hans and I will work closely ensuring the transition is well managed,” Sood added.