Thursday Nov 21, 2024
Thursday Nov 21, 2024
Monday, 18 November 2024 00:42 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) Sri Lanka International Conference 2024, held on 7 November at the Balmoral, Kingsbury Hotel in Colombo, was a landmark event that brought together top industry leaders, experts, and innovators.
The conference focused on transforming supply chains to build more resilient, sustainable ecosystems for the future, a theme that highlighted the importance of adapting to global challenges and technological advancements.
The conference began with the traditional lighting of the oil lamp, followed by a welcome address from CILT Sri Lanka President Chandima Hulangamuwa, FCILT. Hulangamuwa warmly welcomed the distinguished guests and attendees, emphasising the conference’s role in fostering dialogue and innovation in logistics and supply chain management.
In an exciting announcement, Hulangamuwa revealed that Sri Lanka had won the bid to host the CILT International Convention in 2025, a prestigious event that will bring together logistics and transport leaders from around the globe. This announcement was met with great enthusiasm from the audience.
Chief Guest, Transport, Highways, Ports, and Civil Aviation Secretary K.D.S. Ruwanchandra underscored the importance of integrating Government perspectives into discussions on logistics, transportation, and infrastructure — key components that influence the resilience of global supply chains.
CILT International President Chief Teete Owusu-Nortey, FCILT provided insights into the global supply chain landscape, emphasising the necessity for greater collaboration between stakeholders across industries and countries. Additionally, CILT Secretary-General Sharon Kindleysides was present at the event.
The keynote speaker, MAS Holdings Strategic Supplier Partnerships and Organisational Change Director Dhanushka Fernando delivered a compelling address.
The conference featured an array of thought-provoking sessions from industry leaders and experts, including: KPMG Partner Pyumi Sumanasekara; KPMG Technology Solutions Ltd. General Manager Fahad Cader; Prima Group Assistant Group General Manager Dharshana De Silva and Sunshine Consumers Chief Marketing Officer Kavi Rajapaksha.
The afternoon session featured a dynamic panel discussion moderated by McLarens Group Chief Commercial Officer Dr. Ravi Edirisinghe. Esteemed panellists included: McLarens Group Managing Director Shehara De Silva; Daraz Lanka Chief Commercial Officer Oshan Ranatunga; John Keells Holdings Executive Vice President Ramesh Shanmuganathan; Uber (Mobility) Country Head Kaushalya Gunaratne; SriLankan Airlines Aviation Consultant and former CEO Peter Hill and Nestlé Lanka PLC Managing Director Bernard Stefan.
The discussion covered topics such as digital tools, automation, sustainability, and risk management in building future-proof supply chains. Panellists emphasised the need for cross-sector collaboration and innovation.
The conference concluded with a cocktail reception, providing attendees an opportunity to network and discuss the day’s insights. This informal gathering allowed business leaders, professionals, and experts to forge new relationships and explore potential collaborations.
The CILT Sri Lanka International Conference 2024 was sponsored by Haulmatic Technologies Ltd., a leading innovator in logistics technology and supply chain solutions. Haulmatic’s support was instrumental in the event’s success, reflecting their commitment to advancing the future of logistics and transport in Sri Lanka and beyond.
