Sunshine Holdings embarks on new chapter as Shyam Sathasivam succeeds veteran leader Vish Govindasamy

• Continues to support SUN in advisory capacity as Deputy Chairman

Sunshine Holdings PLC (SUN) has announced that Vish Govindasamy will be stepping down from his Executive role within the Group to a Non-Executive role as Deputy Chairman after an illustrious 28-year journey marked by bold leadership, transformative innovation, and deep-rooted commitment to responsible entrepreneurship. Govindasamy will continue to support the Group in an advisory capacity, ensuring continuity and strategic guidance during this important transition.

To honour Govindasamy’s remarkable journey and lasting contributions, a farewell event was held recently, bringing together key business leaders of the country, members of Sunshine’s senior leadership team, and other industry stakeholders. The event celebrated his legacy and his contribution to the Group.

Speaking at the farewell event, Group CEO Shyam Sathasivam said: “The last three decades have been a journey of growth and, as I take on this larger role, I am very much committed to continuing the journey which Govindasamy has nurtured. It is to build a business with purpose and to always care for all our stakeholders, bringing good things to the lives of everyone. I thank him for showing us what it is to lead a business with a vision and heart, transforming Sunshine Holdings to what it is today. I wish him all the best.” 

Sathasivam will be taking over the reins from Govindasamy to lead the Group’s next phase of growth. 

Sathasivam assumed the role of Group Chief Executive Officer in 2024, joining the company in 2005, and is a long-standing member of the Sunshine Group’s leadership team and a key architect of the recent growth trajectory of the Group. Having worked closely with Govindasamy for over two decades, Sathasivam brings a wealth of experience, insight, and a future-focused mindset as he steps into the next chapter of leadership at Sunshine Holdings.

Govindasamy joined Sunshine Holdings in 1997 as CEO of Watawala Plantations and transformed it into Sri Lanka’s most valuable regional plantation company. He was instrumental in launching iconic brands such as Zesta, Watawala Tea, and Ran Kahata, and expanding the Group into healthcare, consumer goods, renewable energy, and dairy. In 2003, he introduced Healthguard Pharmacy, a pioneering concept that redefined pharmaceutical retail in Sri Lanka.

Under his stewardship as Group Managing Director from 2007, Sunshine Holdings entered strategic partnerships, including with global giants Wilmar and SBI Japan, attracted significant private equity investment, and was recognised as one of the Top 40 Great Places to Work in Sri Lanka and No. 57 in the Best Workplaces in Asia. His efforts helped the Group earn recognition as one of the ‘Most Admired Companies in Sri Lanka.’

Beyond commercial success, Govindasamy championed inclusive growth and social impact. He founded the Sunshine Foundation for Good (SFG) in 2017 to drive long-term change in health and education. 

His national influence extended to several key appointments, including Chairman of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce (CCC) in 2021, Board Member of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka, and leadership roles at the Employers’ Federation of Ceylon and several leading listed companies.

Reflecting on his journey, Govindasamy stated: “Leading Sunshine Holdings has been one of the greatest privileges of my career. As a team, we have weathered countless challenges – from a civil war to an unprecedented economic crisis – and adapted to the market dynamics of the country. This showcases the Group’s resilience and transformative journey over the last 28 years. I am deeply grateful for the support of our teams, partners, and stakeholders. I look forward to continuing to support the Group in my advisory capacity, and I am confident that under Shyam’s leadership, Sunshine Holdings will reach new heights.”