INESSA RAJAPAKSE

A Global Banking Journey from Colombo to Dubai

- By Dr. Sulochana Segera

Inessa Rajapakse, Associate Vice President at Commercial Bank International PJSC in Dubai, has carved a remarkable path in the global banking industry over three decades. Beginning her career at Seylan Bank in Colombo in 1994, she has since held senior positions with leading institutions including HSBC, Emirates NBD, and Commercial Bank International, becoming a trusted leader in corporate and institutional banking. An MBA graduate from the University of Leicester, Inessa has built her reputation through expertise in managing multinational clients, government entities, and high-net-worth groups across diverse sectors. Her story is not only about professional achievement but also about resilience, adaptability, and family values. As one of the few Sri Lankan women to establish herself in the competitive financial hub of Dubai, Inessa is both a respected finance professional and an inspiring role model. In this interview, she reflects on her journey, challenges, and the legacy she hopes to leave behind.

You began your banking career in Sri Lanka at Seylan Bank in 1994. What inspired you to pursue a career in banking, and what do you remember most about your early days in the industry?

Banking was considered one of the most prestigious professions at the time, and that inspired me. My grandfather had also been a banker, while my father strongly encouraged me to pursue the field. I began as a bank teller before moving into the credit department after just a few months. The work was demanding, but I truly enjoyed it. Looking back, those early days shaped my resilience and passion for finance.

Relocating to Dubai in 2005 must have been a turning point in your professional and personal life. What were the biggest challenges you faced when transitioning into the Middle Eastern banking industry?