HSBC recognises outstanding bankers

Banking on an international network of 8000 offices in 87 countries, HSBC Sri Lanka took employees closer to medieval times of pharaohs and pyramids, when they celebrated the annual staff awards night recently at the Sri Lanka Exhibition and Convention Centre.

The awards night celebrated in grand style was attended by senior management and over 1500 employees to recognise and reward fellow colleagues through a wide category of awards. A total of 154 awards handed out that night by Nick Nicolaou, CEO of HSBC Sri Lanka and Maldives and members of the senior management Executive Committee, included Bank wide awards and 115 awards for Longstanding Service, Best Academic Achiever, Best Sports Person (Male & Female), HSBC Sports Colours, Corporate Social Responsibility (Best Volunteering Team), Corporate Social Responsibility (Best Volunteer) Best Initiative, HSBC Spirit Awards, Most Valuable Players and Best Sales Staff.

Winners were presented with respective accolades, medals and certificates along with special prizes and complimentary airline tickets.

The highlight of the evening was the crowing of the ‘Hexagon King and Queen’, where six finalists, comprising three male and three female staff were short listed for the award. Hithesh Fernando of HSBC Moratuwa Branch and Niroshini Kanangara from HSBC Call centre was crowned Hexagon King and Queen, having received the highest number of votes by staff and escorted through the cheering crowd on a palanquin as done in ancient times.

The elated CEO of HSBC Sri Lanka and Maldives, Nick Nicolaou said, “This is a proud moment for all our staff and for me personally, as we have come together for the third year to recognise the contributions made by staff, who are the backbone of our successful operation. This is the most eagerly anticipated event by every single staff member, as they too take pride in their own achievements and to celebrate the success of their colleagues as well as getting to enjoy a truly memorable night. “

The event was made up of pyramids and desert backdrops creating the ideal ambience with a Mediterranean cuisine to set the night apart from any other. Entertainment comprised of choreographed dance acts by the local celebrity duo Bathiya and Santhush, special vocal performances by Ashanthi and her team, plus miming and magic shows.

Ravi Jayasekera, Head of Human Resources, HSBC commented, “We organise many internal events to recognise and reward staff and the annual awards night is by far the biggest staff engagement event that recognises staff for their valuable contributions. We are truly proud of the people we have and want this to be “their day” for all they do to make the Bank successful “  

The annual awards night takes on a different theme each year, and was organised by a committee comprising bankers of all levels, endeavouring to create a memorable show.