NIMAL FERNANDO APPOINTED CHAIRMAN OF COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT COMPANY PLC

Veteran banker Nimal Fernando has been appointed Chairman and Non-Executive Director of Commercial Development Company PLC, a subsidiary of Commercial Bank of Ceylon PLC. With over 35 years of banking and leadership experience, Fernando’s appointment strengthens the company’s governance and strategic direction.

Commercial Development Company PLC, a subsidiary of Commercial Bank of Ceylon PLC, has announced the appointment of veteran banker Nimal Fernando as Chairman and Non-Executive Director, marking a significant addition to its leadership team. The appointment brings to the Board more than three decades of banking expertise, governance experience, and strategic leadership, reinforcing the company’s commitment to sustainable growth and operational excellence.  

Fernando’s distinguished career spans over 35 years at Bank of Ceylon, where he held senior positions across a wide range of functions including recoveries, product development, branch banking, customer service, and corporate and retail credit. His international exposure includes assignments at the bank’s overseas operations in London and Karachi, broadening his perspective on global banking practices and strengthening his ability to navigate diverse financial environments.  

As Assistant General Manager in charge of Western Province South, Fernando managed 70 branches of Bank of Ceylon, demonstrating his ability to oversee large-scale operations and drive performance across extensive networks. He later served as Chief Executive Officer and Director of Bank of Ceylon (UK) Ltd, where he played a pivotal role in expanding the bank’s international footprint and enhancing its reputation in overseas markets. His leadership journey also includes serving as Chief Risk Officer of Bank of Ceylon, where he was instrumental in strengthening risk management frameworks, and as Chief Executive Officer of the Grand Oriental Hotel, reflecting his versatility in managing both financial and hospitality enterprises.  

Currently, Fernando serves as an Independent Non-Executive Director of Commercial Bank of Ceylon PLC, further underscoring his deep association with the institution and his contribution to its governance and strategic oversight. His academic credentials include a Bachelor of Science (Honours) degree from the University of Colombo, and he is an Associate Member of the Institute of Bankers of Sri Lanka, reinforcing his professional standing in the industry.  

The appointment of Fernando as Chairman of Commercial Development Company PLC is expected to provide strong leadership and strategic guidance as the company continues to support the broader objectives of its parent organisation, Commercial Bank of Ceylon PLC. His extensive experience in banking operations, risk management, and corporate governance positions him to play a key role in driving the company’s future initiatives, enhancing stakeholder value, and ensuring resilience in an evolving financial landscape.  

This leadership milestone reflects Commercial Development Company PLC’s commitment to strengthening its Board with seasoned professionals who bring both local and international expertise. With Fernando at the helm, the company is well placed to advance its strategic priorities, reinforce its governance standards, and contribute meaningfully to the growth trajectory of Sri Lanka’s financial services sector.