Our Network

Mr. Chandana Weeraseka is a seasoned professional with over 30 years of experience in the plantations industry. His career began in 1989 as an Assistant Superintendent at Craig Estate Bandarawela of the Sri Lanka State Plantations Cooperation, where he gained valuable insights into the industry’s operations. In 2000, he transitioned to the role of Senior Superintendent at Horana Plantations PLC, further honing his expertise.

Throughout his career, Mr. Chandana Weerasekara has worked across various prestigious estates such as Mahanelu, Eildon Hall, Alton, Bambarakale, and Gouravilla. During this time, he has achieved notable milestones, including setting all time record prices and surpassing average yield targets.
Mr. Chandana Weerasekara holds a National Diploma in Plantation Management from the National Institute of Plantation Management.

In 2023, he assumed the role of Regional Director of Galle at PHDT, where he aims to leverage his extensive experience to drive positive change and improve industry standards.

Having 38 years’ experience in senior management capacity in the plantations sector under government, private management company and corporate management in tea bagging and export industry.
Currently in this organization has regional director for last three years.

Mr. R. V. A. N. P. Wijeratne commenced his planting career with the Janatha Estates Development Board in 1984 as a trainee and continued until 1991. Thereafter, he served at Agarapatana Plantations Ltd, Malwatte Valley Plantations PLC, and Hapugastenna Plantations PLC. Subsequently, he was employed for 2 years at the Tea Small Holders Development Authority. Mr. Wijeratne joined PHDT in December 2008 as the Senior Manager HRD & Admin and was promoted as Regional Director effective from 10^th January 2011. Since then, he has served in four Regions of PHDT, namely Nuwara Eliya, Badulla, Hatton, and Ratnapura as the Reginal Director

Mr. Wijeratne obtained his bachelor’s degree in Science from the University of Ruhuna and two postgraduate degrees, a Master of Business Administration degree from the University of Peradeniya an MPhil degree from the University of Colombo. With over 34 years of experience in the Plantation Sector, Mr. Wijeratne brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his role while having a passion for the plantation community development.

Strong managerial background with Senor Level experience and cross- sector exposure. Good strategic appreciation and vision, able to build and implement sophisticated plans with a proven track record explicitly supporting professional needs. Self driven and self reliant sets aims and targets and leads by example, collaborative approach with good interpersonal skills to engage, motivate and encourage others through change.  Highly focused with a consistent track record in the Plantation sector.

Having a span of 27 years of experience in the Plantation, cherishing in various capacities from Asst. Manager to the rank of  General Manager, Managing vast hectares of Tea and Rubber crops with attractive & high NSAs, introducing latest techniques in  operation of  Plantation under my charge enabled recording profits and  have proved my  capabilities in fitting into the top management category.

Leaving the Plantation career joined PHDT in the year 2009, as Regional Director  implementing Social Welfare Housing, infrastructure and Health/Mobilization programs to the Regional Plantations working closely with the Government Stakeholders, Regional Plantation Companies, NGOs and Plantation Trade Unions etc. serving in several regions, in the year 2016 took up the position of  Director Administration & HR at the PHDT Head Office  and presently stationed at Hatton Region in the capacity of Senior Director.

The Regional Director, Mr. A. S. B. Ekanayake, commenced his career as a Trainee Planter at Kiriwanaketiya Estate under the purview of the Sri Lanka State Plantations Corporation. He served the Estate in various capacities, including Assistant Superintendent, Senior Assistant Superintendent, and Superintendent, over a period of 26 years. Subsequently, on January 1, 2014, he joined the Plantation Human Development Trust as the Regional Director. He has since served in the same capacity in Galle, Ratnapura Regions, and Badulla.

With over 36 years of experience in the sector, Mr. Ekanayake is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in the plantations

Mr. Rohana Deshapriya possess over 15 years of planting experience as a Trainee Planter, Assistant Manager, Senior Assistant Manager and Deputy Production Manager in Regional Plantation Companies. Mr. Deshapriya has joined the Corporate Management as the Manager Estate Administration & Spice Operations and has completed his Diploma in Agriculture from the College of Agriculture – Kundesale. Further, he is a BSc holder from the Wayamba University of Sri Lanka.

A results-oriented professional with over 20 years in agriculture, dairy farming, and project management, this individual excels in tackling complex challenges and driving strategic initiatives. With an MBA and relevant certifications, possess a strong vision for organizational success.

Beginning their career in plantation management, they advanced to Senior Assistant Manager at Watawala Plantations PLC, overseeing large-scale tea production and managing over 8,000 employees. Expertise in productivity and operational efficiency led to significant profitability. As a Dairy Farm Project Manager, optimized operations and ensured regulatory compliance.
Since joining PHDT in 2018, held key roles, becoming Regional Director in 2021. Have implemented social welfare housing, infrastructure, and health mobilization programs in partnership with government and NGOs. Currently, manage initiatives supporting over 300,000 plantation workers across 72 estates under10 RPCs, focusing on community development in water infrastructure, education, and healthcare.