Sri Lanka tire maker GRI appoints chief operating officer

Colombo – Global Rubber Industries (GRI) has appointed Thanuja Samaranayake as its new chief operating officer, effective 1 March.

Samaranayake brings with him over 22 years of experience in global operational strategy and sustainability, said GRI in an announcement 7 March.

He has “a proven track record of driving revenue growth, enhancing supply chain resilience, and achieving sustainability goals across diverse industries,” it added.

Samaranayake's "experience and proven leadership will be invaluable as we continue to innovate and drive growth," commented Dr Mahesha Ranasoma, CEO of GRI.GRIS new COO has previously worked with Ansell Health Care, Ansell Textiles Lanka, Fonterra Brands Lanka, and Singer PLC in Sri Lanka.

He holds an MSc in sustainability management from the University of Bedfordshire and a ‘lean six sigma black belt certification’ from TQMI Colombo.

Managing director Prabhash Subasinghe expects Samaranayake's “dedication to optimising operations and... sustainable practices” to further strengthen GRI’s position within the speciality tire industry."