SIYAPATHA FINANCE STRENGTHENS BOARD WITH TWO INDEPENDENT APPOINTMENTS

Siyapatha Finance PLC has appointed economist Deshal de Mel and banking professional Nishani de Zoysa as Independent Non-Executive Directors effective 18 May 2026. The appointments enhance governance and leadership, bringing expertise in economic policy, financial markets, corporate banking, and project finance to support the company’s strategic growth and resilience.  

Siyapatha Finance PLC has announced the appointment of two seasoned professionals, Deshal de Mel and Nishani de Zoysa, as Independent Non-Executive Directors to its Board with effect from 18 May 2026. The move reflects the company’s commitment to strengthening its governance framework and reinforcing its leadership team with diverse expertise.  

De Mel, a distinguished economist and corporate professional, brings extensive knowledge of economic policy, financial markets, and corporate governance. His career spans both public and private sectors, including serving as Economic Adviser to the Ministry of Finance and Commissioner of the Securities and Exchange Commission of Sri Lanka. He has also held senior roles at Sampath Bank PLC, where he served as Independent Non-Executive Director and later as Senior Independent Director. Recognised as a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum, de Mel continues to serve on the boards of several leading institutions, contributing to strategic decision-making and policy development. His appointment is expected to add significant value to Siyapatha Finance’s oversight and governance processes, particularly in navigating complex regulatory and financial landscapes.  

Complementing this expertise, de Zoysa brings more than three decades of experience in corporate banking, project finance, and development finance. Her most recent role as Assistant Vice President – Corporate Banking at DFCC Bank PLC saw her managing major corporate portfolios and structuring complex financing solutions. With a career marked by stakeholder engagement, credit management, portfolio governance, and operational leadership, de Zoysa’s appointment strengthens Siyapatha Finance’s capacity to deliver innovative financial solutions while maintaining robust governance standards. Her deep understanding of corporate finance and risk management will be instrumental in guiding the company’s strategic initiatives and ensuring sustainable growth.  

The dual appointments underscore Siyapatha Finance’s focus on enhancing board independence and diversity, aligning with best practices in corporate governance. By bringing together expertise in economics, financial markets, and corporate banking, the company is positioning itself to address emerging challenges in the financial services sector while capitalising on opportunities for expansion and innovation.  

As Sri Lanka’s financial services industry continues to evolve amid regulatory reforms and shifting market dynamics, the addition of de Mel and de Zoysa to the Board reflects Siyapatha Finance’s proactive approach to strengthening its leadership and governance structures. Their combined experience is expected to reinforce the company’s resilience, strategic agility, and commitment to delivering value to stakeholders.