UN Global Compact Network Sri Lanka amplifies industry leadership with new patron structure for working groups

Chairman Dilhan C. Fernando

Executive Director Rathika de Silva 

UN Global Compact Network Sri Lanka has introduced a transformative patron structure for its working groups, set to take effect in 2025.  

This initiative strengthens the network’s commitment to advancing corporate sustainability by amplifying the leadership of select companies within their respective issue areas. The Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were signed on 20 March, at the 80 Club, in the presence of the Network’s Board Members.

Network Sri Lanka’s Working Groups have long provided a platform for businesses to exchange knowledge and drive industry-wide progress on sustainability. With this new structure, leading companies will take on an enhanced role in guiding participants within their Working Groups, offering mentorship, strategic insights, and best practices to drive collective action.

As patrons, these companies will host events, provide guidance, and shape the direction of their respective Working Groups, ensuring that discussions translate into tangible, scalable solutions aligned with national and global sustainability priorities.

Following are the patrons and their areas of leadership.

MAS Holdings Ltd. – Gender and Diversity

MAS Holdings will lead the Gender and Diversity Working Group, championing inclusive business practices, gender equality, and women’s leadership in corporate Sri Lanka.

A. Baur and Co Ltd., – Business and Human Rights

A. Baur and Co will lead efforts within the Business and Human Rights Working Group, championing ethical business practices, human rights protections, and responsible corporate conduct.

Talawakelle Tea Estates PLC – Climate Emergency Task Force

Talawakelle Tea Estates will drive action within the Climate Emergency Task Force, supporting businesses in climate change mitigation, adaptation and resilience strategies.

Kelani Valley Plantations PLC – Water and Ocean Stewardship

Kelani Valley Plantations will support the Water and Ocean Stewardship Working Group, focusing on sustainable water management and conservation practices. 

Dilmah Ceylon Tea Company PLC – Water and Ocean Stewardship and Sustainable Supply Chain and SME

Dilmah will take on a dual Patron role, sharing its expertise in sustainable supply chains and water stewardship, particularly in global supply chain sustainability and marine biodiversity conservation efforts.

Teejay Lanka PLC – Sustainable Supply Chain and SME

Teejay Lanka will support the Sustainable Supply Chain Working Group, bringing its expertise in ethical sourcing, circularity, and sustainable manufacturing.

Through this initiative, Network Sri Lanka aims to accelerate the transition from awareness-building to impactful action. By formalising the role of patrons, the Network strengthens its commitment to supporting businesses in achieving measurable progress on sustainability, in alignment with national priorities and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

MAS Holdings, a longstanding advocate for gender equity and women’s empowerment, continues its leadership role as the patron of the Gender and Diversity Working Group.

MAS Holdings Head of Gender Equity Thanuja Jayawardene said: “As the patron of the Gender and Diversity Working Group, MAS Holdings builds on over two decades of commitment to gender equity and women’s empowerment. Our engagement with Network Sri Lanka and similar networks has reinforced the value of collaboration—there’s much to learn and share. We can’t drive systemic change alone, and through this role, we hope to inspire greater private sector involvement, exchange insights, and strengthen the ecosystem for gender equity in Sri Lanka.” 

A. Baur and Co. Ltd. Managing Director/CEO Rolf Blaser said: “As a steward of A. Baur and Co. Ltd.’s 127-year legacy, built on ethical governance and the unwavering dedication of our people. Ensuring a living wage is not just a moral imperative, it’s also a smart business strategy. When the employees have the financial security they need, they’re more productive, engaged, and loyal. We recognise that this transformative change cannot be achieved in isolation. By working together with other stakeholders, we can create a ripple effect that benefits everyone. Through our commitment to advocating for a living wage, we aim to inspire broader private sector participation, facilitate the exchange of best practices, and strengthen the ecosystem for equitable economic growth in Sri Lanka.” 

Hayleys Plantations Sector has been at the forefront of corporate sustainability in Sri Lanka, setting benchmarks in water conservation and climate action.

Hayleys Plantations Sector Managing Director Dr. Roshan Rajadurai said: “Kelani Valley Plantations PLC was the first Sri Lankan company to sign the CEO Water Mandate in 2008, reaffirming our dedication to water conservation and sustainable resource management. Talawakelle Tea Estates PLC became the first Sri Lankan plantation company and the first organisation in the country to commit to Science Based Targets in 2019, with our targets officially validated in 2021. These pioneering steps reflect our shared vision for a resilient, responsible, and forward-looking corporate sector. As Patron members of the Water and Ocean Stewardship Working Group (KVPL) and the Climate Emergency Task Force (TTE PLC), we remain committed to advancing collective action. We will continue to foster cross-industry collaboration, share best practices, and lead by example in promoting sustainable development across Sri Lanka.”

Dilmah Ceylon Tea Company PLC highlighted the urgency of sustainable supply chains and water conservation as a Patron of the Sustainable Supply Chain and SME and Water and Ocean Stewardship Working Groups.

Dilmah Ceylon Tea Company PLC Head of Conservation and Sustainability U.W. Rishan Sampath said: “As Patrons for the Sustainable Supply Chain and Water and Ocean Stewardship Working Groups, we recognise the urgent need of improving sustainable supply chains to minimise environmental impact and ensure long-term resilience, while water and ocean stewardship are critical to protecting vital resources and biodiversity. Addressing these issues now is crucial for securing a sustainable future and meeting the increasing demands of stakeholders and consumers.” 

Teejay Group reaffirmed its commitment to circular economy principles within the Sustainable Supply Chain and SME Working Group, emphasising innovation and collaboration.

Teejay Group Manager – Group Sustainability Ishara Perera said: “As a proud patron for Circular Economy under the Sustainable Supply Chain Working Group, we are committed to driving sustainable innovation and industry-wide collaboration. Together, we can advance resilient supply chains, close the loop on resources, and build a future where circularity fuels progress. Let’s pioneer scalable solutions aligned with global best practices—because sustainability isn’t just our responsibility; it’s the foundation of a lasting legacy.”