CEOs Forum of CIPM highlights significance of ‘People First Culture’

The panel discussion held at the ceremony

The keynote speaker, Bingumal Thewarathanthri, the CEO of Standard Chartered Bank, Sri Lanka, delivered an inspiring keynote address focusing on the People First Culture emphasizing on the role of HR in Business particularly at a time when Sri Lanka had experienced a pandemic followed by the most recent episodes such as political unrest, economic downturn, high inflation which had far-reaching consequences on the country. 
He shared several HR practices which had been introduced at Standard Chartered Bank during these difficult times. Particularly work from-home arrangements, employee well-being, laptops for staff, etc. had strengthened motivation within the workforce. He cited his experience in Nigeria, Zimbabwe, and South Africa and gave insights on what he had experienced while working overseas. Elaborating on the “People First Culture”, he specially endorsed the view that the people factor is of the highest importance in difficult times particularly. He touched on flexible working hours, leadership roles, and CSR projects which are key aspects of Human Resource Management priorities.
The salient aspect of the keynote speaker’s presentation inspired the rest of the panel members who also made strong contributions during interactive discussions with a highly knowledgeable audience of CEOs from multiple organizations.
Ken Vijayakumar, the President of CIPM Sri Lanka, expressed the view that the People First Cultures should be driven by CEOs as they are aware of the inner workings and the company culture within which employees must work.  He further said that the CIPM is successfully shouldering the task of moulding HR professionals who can be future CEOs.
Sharing their valuable ideas and experience, the CEOs emphasized that a ‘People First Culture’ prioritizes the need for employee satisfaction and fulfillment with the understanding that a happy workforce translates to better productivity and higher business outcomes. It was emphasized that Corporate Social Responsibility and Sustainability play a vital role in delivering better performance results.
The panel of experts comprised of Bingumal Thewarathanthri, the CEO –of Standard Chartered Bank PLC, Dr. Samitha Perera, CEO – of CBL Foods International Pvt Ltd, Shiromal Cooray, Chairman and Managing Director – of Jetwing Travels (Pvt) Ltd, and Chevaan Daniel, Executive Group Director – Capital Maharaja Group. The discussion was moderated by Dr. Nalin Jayasuriya – Chairman & Managing Director, Mcquire Rens & Jones (Pvt) Ltd.
The President of CIPM Sri Lanka, Ken Vijayakumar, and the Vice President and Chairman of the CEOs’ Forum of CIPM, Priyantha Ranasinghe, welcomed the delegates. The Immediate Past President, Office Bearers, and council members of the Executive Council, Members of the Standing Committee on HR Profession as a Leading Strategic Partner for Organizational Excellence were also present alongside with CEO, Directors, and Senior Management of CIPM.