Dr. Hans Wijayasuriya stands as a luminary figure in the realm of telecommunications, carving a path of innovation and leadership that resonates globally. As the Chief Executive Officer for Telecommunications Business and Group Executive Vice President of Axiata Group, his impact extends across diverse markets, shaping the landscape of connectivity and digital services in Asia and beyond.
A Visionary Leader
Dr. Wijayasuriya’s tenure at Axiata Group has been marked by a relentless pursuit of excellence and a commitment to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in telecommunications. Heading the pan-region telecommunications operations spanning Malaysia, Indonesia, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Cambodia, he orchestrates a symphony of connectivity that empowers millions.
His leadership extends beyond corporate boardrooms, as evidenced by his instrumental role in steering Dialog Axiata PLC, Sri Lanka’s largest mobile communications provider, to unprecedented heights during his 19-year tenure as Group Chief Executive until 2016. Under his guidance, Dialog emerged as a beacon of technological innovation and customer-centricity, setting new standards for the industry.
Championing Digital Transformation
Dr. Wijayasuriya’s foresight led to the establishment of Axiata Digital Services, a pan-regional digital services arm of the Axiata Group, from 2012 to 2014. This bold initiative underscored his commitment to driving digital transformation across diverse markets, leveraging technology to enhance lives and empower communities.
His contributions haven’t gone unnoticed, with the GSM Association recognizing his outstanding contributions to the Asian mobile industry in 2016, marking him as the first recipient of this prestigious award. Dr. Wijayasuriya’s influence extends beyond accolades, as he actively shapes industry discourse through his involvement in GSM Asia Pacific and as a frequent keynote speaker and panelist at GSMA events, including the Mobile World Congress.
A Legacy of Excellence
Dr. Wijayasuriya’s impact transcends the corporate realm, as reflected in his diverse engagements in Sri Lanka’s socio-economic landscape. Serving as the immediate Past Chairman of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce and his involvement in various educational and technological institutions underscore his commitment to driving holistic development.
His academic pursuits, including research papers published in esteemed journals and presentations at international conferences, highlight his dedication to advancing the frontiers of digital mobile communications. Dr. Wijayasuriya’s illustrious academic background, including a PhD in Digital Mobile Communications from the University of Bristol and an MBA from the University of Warwick, serves as a testament to his multifaceted expertise.
Charting the Future
As Dr. Hans Wijayasuriya continues to spearhead Axiata Group’s telecommunications endeavors, his vision and leadership promise to shape the future of connectivity in Asia and beyond. With a blend of innovation, strategic foresight, and unwavering commitment to excellence, he remains at the forefront of the telecommunications revolution, driving transformative change and empowering communities in the digital age.
