Leading Idea Group to New Heights

In March 2024, Dilhani Weerarathna rejoined Idea Group as its CEO during a challenging period. Her leadership has been pivotal in placing the company on a sustainable growth trajectory. Her entrepreneurial spirit, unyielding determination, and deep commitment shaped her remarkable journey from accounts executive to CEO. Today, under her guidance, Idea Group is on the path to achieving long-term success and expansion. Speaking with Business Today, Dilhani Weerarathna said that Idea Group has demonstrated the power of positive thinking, innovation, and hands-on leadership. With her vision and unwavering commitment, Idea Group is well on its way to becoming a leading player in Sri Lanka's construction industry, poised for even greater success in the future.

- Jennifer Paldano Goonewardane

Can you tell us about your career journey, what led you to become the CEO of this manufacturing company, and what key experiences from your previous role have been most helpful in preparing you for this challenge?

I joined Idea Group in 2014 as an accounts executive, beginning a journey leading me back to the company as its CEO in March 2024. When I rejoined, the company's fortunes had taken a downturn, but within a span of just nine months, we began to see a gradual upward trajectory toward growth and sustainability.

My professional journey has been one of constant learning and growth. Initially, when I started at Idea Group, I was entrusted with responsibilities far beyond my account executive role, explicitly overseeing the company's transportation operations. That was a pivotal learning opportunity for me, especially as Idea Group was still in its early stages, having begun operations in 2012. The company's flagship brand at the time was Sivilima. What made this period particularly invaluable was the confidence our Managing Director, Sampath Mayakaduwa, placed in me. His belief in my abilities gave me the freedom to perform and develop my entrepreneurial skills, a factor that I attribute significantly to my success at Idea Group. I became so absorbed in my role that it no longer felt like a typical nine-to-five job. It felt like "our" business, not just "my" job. This deep sense of commitment was one of the foundations that shaped my approach to leadership.