The Association of Accounting Technicians of Sri Lanka (AAT Sri Lanka) inaugurated its flagship AAT Business Conference 2025 on 4th and 5th August at the Cinnamon Grand Colombo, bringing together business leaders, policymakers and professionals for two days of thought-provoking discussion, strategic insights and networking.
This year’s conference, held under the theme “NextGen Redefined,” focuses on the bold transformation of finance professionals into digital pioneers and AI-powered strategists. In an era shaped by data and emerging technologies, finance is no longer confined to traditional reporting but has become a driving force of enterprise innovation, cultural change and strategic decision-making.
The event was graced by the presence of Mr. Kavinda de Zoysa, Chairman of the Bank of Ceylon, who attended as Chief Guest, while the keynote address was delivered by Mr. Ramesh Schaffter, Managing Director and Group Chief Executive Officer of the Janashakthi Group. Adding to the prestige of the occasion, Hon. Sunil Kumara Gamage, Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, joined as a special invitee, reflecting the significance of the conference at a national level.
In his welcome remarks, Mr. Indraka Liyanage, President of AAT Sri Lanka and Regional Risk Head for Sri Lanka and Maldives at HBL, emphasized the importance of redefining the role of finance professionals to meet the challenges of a rapidly evolving business landscape. Conference Committee Chairperson Ms. Jani Ganeshan, a Governing Council Member of AAT Sri Lanka and Senior Assistant Vice President at John Keells Group, highlighted the conference’s role as a platform for professional development and industry collaboration.
Providing the technical direction for the programme, Dr. Buddhi Pathiraja, Chairperson of the Technical Committee and Director at BDO Consulting (Pvt) Ltd, underscored the need for finance professionals to embrace digital transformation and harness artificial intelligence for strategic impact.
On the following day technical sessions began with “Gauge the Vacuum – AI & Digital Transformation”, presented by Mr. Rohan Jayaweera, Principal Analytics Delivery – Data and Advanced Analytics at John Keells Group. Chaired by Mr. Ashane Jayasekera, Deputy Managing Partner, BDO Sri Lanka, the session featured a panel comprising Mr. Dhanushka Abeyratne (Deputy General Manager- Data Analytics and Governance at MAS Holdings), Mr. Danushka Mallawarachchi (Deputy General Manager – Finance, LOLC Holdings PLC) and Ms. Dilmini Weragama (Rockland Distilleries). The discussion emphasized how data and artificial intelligence are reshaping industries and creating new opportunities.
The second session, “Learn, Unlearn & Relearn ”, was led by Mr. Rajith Perera, Partner at EY Sri Lanka. Ms. Nishani Perera, Partner at Moore Aiyar, chaired the session, while the panel included Mr. Thishya Weragoda (Independent Legal Counsel, Neelakandan & Neelakandan), Prof. Hareendra Dissabandara (Chairman, SEC) and Ms. Prashani Ilangasinghe (General Manager- Group ESG, Hayleys PLC). Speakers highlighted the importance of adapting to new regulatory frameworks and embracing digital readiness.
After the lunch break, participants engaged in “Financial Mastery – Use Your Knowledge for Your Personal Benefit”, presented by Mr. Dimuthu Ethugala, Managing Partner of Crevaty Consulting. Mr. Radhika Alahakoon, Partner - KPMG Sri Lanka , chaired the session. The panel consisted of Mr. Sanura Silva (Chief Executive Officer Capital Alliance Plc), Ms. Nadini Perera Wickramasinghe (Founder and lead speech pathologist at Ceylon Speechie) and Mr. Thushira Raddalle (Raddella Holdings). The session encouraged finance professionals to apply their expertise for personal financial growth and long-term stability.
The day concluded with “Unleash the Potential – The Third Eye of Leadership & Emotional Intelligence”, presented by Ms. Chethana Liyanage, Chief Talent Officer, Capital Maharaja Group. Chaired by Ms. Dilani Yatawaka, CEO of Ideal Motors, the panel featured Mr. Akhry Ameer ("Manager - Lionel Wendt Memorial Fund/Business Consultant), Mr. Lasantha Dasanayaka (Vice President - Human Resources, NDB Bank PLC) and Dr. Sanath Mahawithanage (Director, Centre for Mindfulness Based Research and Practices, University of Sri Jayewardenepura). This closing session explored emotional intelligence as a powerful driver of leadership and effective decision-making.
The conference successfully provided a platform for professionals to gain fresh perspectives, exchange ideas and embrace transformation in both personal and professional spheres.
Over the two days, the conference promised to deliver powerful insights and practical guidance, reaffirming that the future of finance is not approaching—it is already here. As the sessions unfolded, participants were encouraged to see themselves not just as accountants, but as visionaries shaping culture, influencing strategy and accelerating transformation in their organizations.
Association of Accounting Technicians of Sri Lanka
AAT Centre, #540, Ven Muruththettuwe Ananda Nahimi Mawatha, Narahenpita,
Colombo 05.
Phone:0741 966 967 / 0112559669(Ext 205) / Fax: 0112559299,
Email: conference@aatsl.lk
