Surge Global, a leading design, technology, and marketing firm of Sri Lankan origin is thrilled to announce its successful partnership with Gulf Business Machines (GBM) Qatar, one of Qatar’s largest technology companies. The partnership kicked off with a successful bid in securing a multi-million dollar project for a prominent public sector entity in Qatar. This achievement marks a significant milestone for both companies and reaffirms their commitment to delivering bleeding-edge digital transformation on a national scale.
The collaborative effort between Surge Global and GBM Qatar was the result of their shared expertise, dedication, and a compelling vision to provide best-in-class solutions to meet the evolving needs of the Qatari market. As a dynamic partnership, these organizations have demonstrated their ability to combine design excellence, advanced technology, and marketing prowess to address complex challenges effectively.
Manu Sivarajan, Executive at GBM Qatar, spoke enthusiastically about the partnership stating, “After an extensive evaluation process, it became evident that Surge Global was the best provider to form this partnership across Qatar and Sri Lanka. Their outstanding reputation for innovation, their commitment to quality, and their ability to tailor solutions to meet the unique requirements of the Qatari market set them apart as the ideal partner.”
The multi-million-dollar government contract in Qatar represents a testament to Surge Global’s and GBM Qatar’s capabilities in delivering high-impact projects that make a tangible difference. Their joint proposal stood out for its comprehensive approach, incorporating innovative design concepts, state-of-the-art technology solutions, and an effective marketing strategy to meet the specific requirements of the Qatari government.
Bhanuka Harischandra, the Chief Executive at Surge expressed, “Sri Lanka has an abundant and thriving technology talent ecosystem and Surge is fortunate to be in the center of it. I believe this is the first win of many together with GBM Qatar as our partnership continues to mature. The dozens of projects we’re already working on will help contribute to local talent building a stronger and more resilient ecosystem”
Both Surge Global and GBM Qatar are excited to embark on this transformative journey and look forward to delivering exceptional results that exceed the expectations of the Qatari government. Their commitment to excellence and dedication to innovation will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the future of technology and design in Qatar.
Kia Motors (Lanka) Limited has been awarded a Bronze in the Advertising & Marketing category for its website which was relaunched earlier this year to better represent the brand’s global ethos of ‘movement that inspires.’
The 13th edition of the BestWeb.lk awards presentation took place on 9th August at Monarch Imperial. Kia Motors (Lanka) Managing Director Mr Andrew Perera accepted the award on behalf of the Company.
The BestWeb.lk awards consider technical and quality aspects including functionality, ease of use, conformance and compliance with industry standards and protocols, performance efficiency, security and privacy, design, content quality and the quality of interaction with users.
The Kia Motors (Lanka) website’s recent redesign encompassed an array of new navigational features, including scrolling videos, captivating images, and distinctive tiles. In order to enhance user experience, the website integrates seamlessly with the Kia Lanka mobile application for service requests, and provides convenient access to Kia after-sales services, as well as a handy 360° Visualizer feature that enables site visitors to view a vehicle from every angle. Additionally, the website allows users to browse and explore Certified Pre-Owned automobiles available with Kia Lanka, stay up to date with the brand’s latest developments in the country and globally, and locate a Kia branch or dealer closest to them effortlessly.
Kia Motors (Lanka) has represented the Kia brand in Sri Lanka since 1996 and has been instrumental in making it one of the best-regarded automobile brands in the country.
Keeping abreast with the advancements in the digital era and its pioneering spirit, the premier transnational higher education provider in Sri Lanka, Universal College Lanka (UCL) launches the only British MSc Digital Marketing Communications programme in Sri Lanka in partnership with the prestigious University of Central Lancashire, UK. This initiative is set to empower local professionals to become globally competitive with the value-addition of a prestigious Masters Degree accredited by the Institute of Direct and Digital Marketing (IDM), UK, which ratifies that the qualification holds significant value and recognition internationally.
Expressing his views on the ground-breaking introduction of the only British MSc Digital Marketing Communications programme in Sri Lanka, the Chief Executive Officer of UCL, Gihan Silva opined, “It is with great pleasure that we present the only British MSc Digital Marketing Communications programme in Sri Lanka. As the premier transnational higher education provider in Sri Lanka, UCL understands the pivotal role that digital marketing plays in shaping the success of businesses and organisations across industries. Our MSc in Digital Marketing Communications Programme is tailored to meet the growing demand for professionals who can leverage the power of digital platforms to effectively engage with target audiences, build brands and drive business growth”.
Dr. Harsha Alles, Director of UCL said, “UCL has established a robust and professional partnership with the University of Central Lancashire and is proud to offer World- class British Education in Sri Lanka. Being leaders in transnational higher education for the past seven years has given UCL the impetus to take a quantum leap of faith and introduce a Masters Degree of the highest calibre. By leveraging our successful track record of delivering world-class higher education, we aim to attract the finest minds and equip them with the skills and knowledge to excel in their chosen fields.I am confident that this programme will empower professionals to excel in the digital marketing landscape”.
Sharing his thoughts on the launch of postgraduate programmes at UCL, Steven Enderby, Director of UCL stated, “Postgraduate education is instrumental in shaping the future of aspiring professionals who wish to enhance their portfolio and gain career advancement. Whether it’s in science, business, or other disciplines, our goal is to nurture exceptional talent and produce graduates who will contribute significantly to their respective industries. We are confident that this milestone will add significant value for those who are qualified, skilled, and ambitious, in furthering their local and global prospects. As such, we take pleasure in inviting qualified professionals to embark on the next step to elevating their career prospects. UCL is committed to playing a pivotal role in creating a prosperous future within the country and in a global context by engaging the finest minds in the industry to be change-makers in the economy.”
Dean of Academic Affairs at UCL Dr. Dhananjay Kulkarni, highlighted the Top 10 Reasons for pursuing the MSc Digital Marketing Communications programme at UCL and its commitment to offer world-class British Education to discerning students in Sri Lanka with its qualified and experienced faculty. Adding to the sentiments expressed he stated “The MSc Digital Marketing Communications Programme awarded by the University of Central Lancashire embodies our commitment to bridging theory with practical expertise, giving students a competitive edge. We hope to attract students from diverse industries who will add value to the scope and intent of the programme.”
The British MSc Digital Marketing Communications Programme delivers an immersive curriculum, encompassing the entirety of digital marketing communications. From strategic digital marketing to consumer behavior, consumer psychology, neuromarketing, and hands-on practical experience, students gain comprehensive expertise. The programme culminates with a rigorous research project, fostering a holistic understanding of the dynamic landscape.
The British MSc Digital Marketing Communications programme is designed for individuals passionate about elevating their expertise in digital marketing and caters to a diverse audience. It welcomes UCL Alumni, bachelor’s degree holders with a minimum second-class lower division and professionals holding qualifications* equivalent to a UK Degree, such as CIM, SLIM, CIMA, ACCA*. Moreover, candidates with relevant work experience*, demonstrating their aptitude for mastering master’s-level studies, are also strongly encouraged to apply. (*Conditions Apply)
Participants in this programme earn a prestigious internationally recognised qualification, opening doors to global career opportunities. Distinguished by its exclusive status, as the sole British MSc Digital Marketing Communications programme in Sri Lanka, UCL solidifies its position as a vanguard in digital marketing education.
Orion City IT Park, welcomes Atlas Axillia Co. (Pvt) Ltd, the leading stationery & learning company in Sri Lanka, who has chosen Orion City as the ideal location for their Marketing and Growth team. Atlas Axillia was founded in 1959 and has evolved into Sri Lanka’s foremost learning company fully owned by Hemas Holding Limited. With the goal of enhancing creativity and productivity, Atlas Axillia is confident that Orion City will support their sales and marketing functions while continuing to expand their business.
Radiksha Rabichandran (Marketing Manager) of Atlas Axillia commented on the decision: “Our aim was to craft a truly exceptional space for our marketing and growth teams – one that would embody creativity, freedom, and collaboration, while simultaneously driving productivity and fostering ground-breaking innovation. Orion City emerged as the perfect choice for our new office as a result of its location, top-notch infrastructure, and unrivalled facilities, which perfectly align with our vision. By establishing our presence in this remarkable space, Atlas Axillia is poised to continue leading the charge as Sri Lanka’s leading learning company, unleashing the potential of our future generations.”
Orion City’s stress-free environment and uninterrupted power supply are credited for facilitating our Company’s highly efficient daily operations. Moreover, with its strategic location and plethora of amenities, Orion City enables employees to achieve a healthy work-life balance. The Complex houses over 60 local and international companies, offering employees access to a 24×7 dedicated help desk.
Additional conveniences include ample car parking, power backup, food and beverage outlets, a fitness center, and other facilities such as a supermarket, bank outlets, and ATMs. To ensure uninterrupted power supply, Orion City employs energy-efficient technologies and plentiful storage and fuel.
Orion City also offers daily garbage disposal, janitorial services, and pest control to ensure cleanliness. Lastly, its proximity to the main City Limits and easy access to the Colombo-Katunayake Airport expressway, train stations, and bus stops make it an ideal location for businesses.
Atlas Axillia joins over 60 local and international companies currently served by Orion City. By choosing Orion City as their hub for marketing and growth, Atlas Axillia is poised to leverage its exceptional services and facilities to further expand its business as the leading learning organization in the Country.
Colombo, Sri Lanka – Muditha Dhammika Silva, a seasoned professional with an illustrious career spanning over 25 years in the banking, financial services, and also in sales and marketing sectors, has been awarded a highly esteemed fellowship by the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM) UK. This prestigious recognition highlights Muditha’s outstanding accomplishments and his exceptional enthusiasm, creativity, and strong desire for success in the field of marketing.
With a remarkable tenure of over a decade in senior managerial positions within the Middle East, Muditha has proven himself as a well-organized individual capable of adapting to diverse work environments. Throughout his career, he has excelled in various functional capacities, including branch marketing, corporate lending and relationship management, financial and credit risk analysis, portfolio management, pricing and receivable management, international trade remittances and currencies, and business administration. Muditha’s 14+ years of senior marketing managerial experience demonstrate his ability to deliver exceptional results under pressure and his proficiency in developing and managing complex corporate accounts.
This Muditha’s scholar’s professional background is enhanced by his educational achievements, including an MBA from the University of Wales and a degree from the University of Sri Jayawardanepura. Additionally, he holds esteemed memberships in professional organizations, such as being a Fellow member of Chartered Professional Managers and a member of the Sri Lanka Institute of Marketing. Currently, Muditha serves as the Head of Branches at a prominent conglomerate within the Financial Services sector.
The CIM UK fellowship program, renowned for its rigorous selection process, attracts exceptional candidates from across the globe. Muditha’s selection as a fellow reflects his impressive professional background, commitment to excellence, and vision for making a significant impact in the marketing industry.
As the recipient of the CIM UK fellowship, Muditha will gain access to a wide array of resources, and mentorship programs, at CIM UK. These opportunities will enable him to expand his knowledge, refine his skills, and network with industry leaders, further strengthening his ability to contribute to the field of marketing.
Expressing his gratitude upon receiving this esteemed fellowship, Muditha shared, “I am deeply honoured to be chosen as the recipient of the CIM UK fellowship. This recognition is a testament to my dedication and passion for marketing. I am excited about the invaluable learning experiences and mentorship opportunities this fellowship will provide, empowering me to drive positive change and become a prominent figure in the marketing industry.”
Muditha Dhammika Silva’s selection for the CIM UK fellowship represents a significant milestone in his professional journey. It highlights not only his outstanding achievements but also the recognition and support of one of the industry’s most esteemed organizations.
Dr. Gehan Dhameeth (DBA, Ph.D.(ABD)) is an accomplished academician with years of experience in teaching and research. He brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the classroom, having published numerous scholarly articles and presented at conferences worldwide. At Lanka Business News, we were fortunate enough to have interviewed Dr. Gehan Dhameeth, who shared his insights on the importance of data analytics in today’s business landscape.
1. What is your designation at Wells College?
I am an Associate Professor of Business
2. What entails your administrative responsibilities at Wells College?
I serve as the chair for two departments; the Business and Data Analytics Departments.
3. What is your teaching focus?
I focus on quantitative classes such as Business Analytics, Marketing Analytics, Visual Analytics, and Statistics. I also teach other classes, such as Marketing and Brand Management.
Dr. Gehan Dhameeth
4. Why is marketing analytics an important course for business students in today’s business context?
Marketing analytics is critical in today’s business landscape because it provides valuable insights and data-driven decision-making capabilities. Marketing Analytics is an important course due to the following reasons.
Data-driven decision-making: Data-driven decision-making enables businesses to make informed decisions based on objective data rather than gut feelings or assumptions. It provides quantitative evidence about customer behavior, market trends, and campaign performance, allowing marketers to optimize their strategies and allocate resources more effectively.
Customer understanding: Marketing analytics enables businesses to understand their customers better. Marketers can identify target segments, personalize marketing messages, and create more effective customer acquisition and retention strategies by analyzing customer data such as demographics, preferences, purchase history, and online behavior.
Campaign performance evaluation: Marketing analytics enables businesses to assess the effectiveness of their marketing campaigns. Marketers can assess which campaigns produce the desired results and optimize underperforming ones by tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) such as conversion rates, click-through rates, customer engagement, and return on investment (ROI).
Market trend analysis: Marketing analytics provides insights into market trends, competitor activities, and industry benchmarks. Marketers can identify emerging trends, anticipate customer needs, and adjust their strategies by monitoring social media, online conversations, and industry publications. This proactive approach assists businesses in staying ahead of the competition and capitalizing on new opportunities.
Budget optimization: Marketing analytics aids in the optimization of marketing budgets by identifying the most effective channels and campaigns. Businesses can allocate resources more strategically by analyzing the ROI of various marketing initiatives, investing more in high-performing channels, and spending less on less effective ones. This ensures efficient resource allocation and maximizes the return on marketing investments.
Forecasting and predictive analysis: Marketing analytics enables businesses to forecast future outcomes and make data-driven predictions. Marketers can forecast customer behavior, demand patterns, and market trends using historical data and statistical modeling techniques. This foresight enables businesses to plan their marketing strategies, product launches, and promotional activities more effectively.
Marketing analytics fosters a culture of continuous improvement within organizations. By analyzing data and measuring performance, marketers can identify areas for improvement, test hypotheses, and implement data-driven optimizations. This iterative approach assists businesses in refining their marketing strategies over time and achieving better results.
Dr. Gehan Dhameeth
5. What educational background do you have to teach Analytics Classes?
I have two master’s degrees (MBA and M.Sc.) and Two Terminal Degrees (DBA and Ph.D.). The M.Sc. is a Business Data Analytics Degree, and my Ph.D. dissertation is related to Marketing Analytics.
6. Why do few students take these analytics classes compared to other classes?
Students may avoid taking marketing analytics classes for a variety of reasons, and they include the following.
Difficulty perception: Marketing analytics courses frequently involve data analysis tools, statistical techniques, and data interpretation. Some students may find these technical aspects difficult or intimidating, especially if they have no prior experience or confidence in quantitative analysis.
Lack of interest: Not all students are passionate about marketing or data analysis. They may prefer other areas of study that are more closely related to their interests or career goals. If students do not see the relevance or value of marketing analytics in their chosen field, they may concentrate on other subjects.
Limited awareness: Some students may be unaware of the importance and applications of marketing analytics in today’s business world. They may not fully comprehend how it can benefit their future career prospects or the potential benefits it provides. A lack of exposure to or knowledge of marketing analytics may result in a lack of interest or motivation to pursue related courses.
Marketing analytics is often associated with data-driven decision-making and quantitative analysis, which some students may perceive as more analytical and less creative than other marketing disciplines. Students with a strong interest in creativity and qualitative aspects of marketing may be less likely to enroll in marketing analytics courses.
Fear of math or statistics: Marketing analytics entails working with data and applying statistical concepts to analyze and interpret the results. Students who are afraid of math or statistics may avoid marketing analytics classes because they are concerned about their ability to grasp and excel in the quantitative aspects of the subject.
Alternative course availability: Students may have a variety of elective courses or specialization options to choose from, and they may prioritize other subjects that align more closely with their career goals or personal interests. If they are limited in space or must make choices within a curriculum, marketing analytics may not be their first choice.
7. What is your advice as a professor to business students who intend to take a marketing analytics class?
As a professor, my advice to business students are;
Accept the importance of data: Recognize that marketing analytics is becoming increasingly important in today’s business landscape. Data-driven decision-making is a valuable skill that can give you a competitive advantage in the job market. Accept the opportunity to learn how to use data to drive marketing strategies and make sound decisions.
Develop a strong foundation in statistics and data analysis: Marketing analytics heavily relies on statistical techniques and data analysis. Understanding statistical concepts such as hypothesis testing, regression analysis, and data visualization is critical. Consider taking introductory statistics courses or brushing up on your statistical knowledge before diving into marketing analytics.
Be proactive and hands-on: Marketing analytics is a practical field that necessitates hands-on experience. Participate in class discussions, use the data and analysis tools provided, and participate in case studies or real-world projects. Seek opportunities to apply what you learn in class to real-world marketing scenarios, and consider internships or co-op placements that involve marketing analytics.
Develop your technical skills: Marketing analytics frequently involves working with data analysis tools and software. Learn to use tools like Excel, SQL, Python, R, and data visualization platforms like Tableau. Consider taking online courses or tutorials to improve your technical skills in data manipulation, programming, and statistical analysis.
Collaborate and network: Marketing analytics is a multidisciplinary field that frequently requires collaboration between marketing professionals, data analysts, and IT specialists. Take advantage of group projects and collaborative assignments to improve your teamwork and communication skills. Additionally, seek networking opportunities with professionals in the field, attend industry events, and join relevant professional organizations to broaden your network. Stay current on industry trends: Marketing analytics is a rapidly evolving field, with new techniques, tools, and methodologies emerging regularly. Attend webinars or conferences, read industry blogs, and follow thought leaders in marketing analytics to stay current on industry trends. This will help you stay ahead and adapt to the changing landscape.
Apply critical thinking: Marketing analytics entails interpreting data and deriving actionable insights. Develop your critical thinking skills to analyze and evaluate the results, consider alternative explanations, and make data-driven recommendations. Connect the dots between data analysis and marketing strategy to comprehensively understand the subject.
June 1st, 2023 – Sri Lanka’s largest marketing communications group, The MullenLowe Group (MLG) launches LoweMedia on the 1st of June. LoweMedia becomes the 7th independently managed strategic vertical following the formation of the group’s six other strategic verticals. Today, MLG consists of MullenLowe (Mainstream advertising), LoweDigital (Social, Content and Paid Media) LoweActive (Brand Activation), LoweTech (Martech Services & Digital Commerce), LoweLintas (Mainstream advertising for Conflict Brands), and LowePublic (Public Relations). The group is set to launch its 8th strategic vertical LoweGo at the end of the year.
With the launch of LoweMedia, MLG completes the full circle of offerings for marketing services for brands aspiring for relevancy in challenging market conditions but above all consistency through the multiple channels of communications. All MLG’s verticals are independently managed, with the flexibility to function as a hyper-bundled offering to activate any single or multiple platforms to channel engagement with a single focus of creating some of the most endearing creative propositions that are consistent with its brand purpose.
Sabry Haniz joins The MullenLowe Group as Vice President & Director of LoweMedia. Sabry is one of the country’s most accomplished strategic media specialists who possess a wealth of experience with a strong entrepreneurial mindset. He rose from the ranks at JWT’s media department to lead it and then became its architect to form WPP’s Mindshare, Wavemaker and subsequently launching GroupM Sri Lanka, which undoubtedly became the country’s largest media powerhouse.
Thayalan Bartlett, Chief Executive Officer of The MullenLowe Group in Sri Lanka said, “The launch of LoweMedia was set back by three years due to the pandemic and the economic crisis. Although we are still not out of the woods economically, we have always been bullish about the future in which technology will play a big part. I am finally pleased to get this off the ground with Sabry at the helm. I have worked with Sabry before, and we are fortunate to be working together again to transform the industry’s lagging media offering which has been bogged down by rates making it a commodity that has taken precedence over creativity and innovation with technology being mere sideshow. Whilst rates are a critical aspect, media efficiency cannot be solely measured by it.”
LoweMedia is set to change this paradigm so that brands get more than the ROI (Return of Investment) they expect but more importantly, get an ROI which we call “Relevancy of Investment” that it’s truly capable of. The MullenLowe Group’s success has largely been to making fundamental changes in its business approach and will do the same with LoweMedia. This new media vertical is building a media model ground-up where technology and the human spirit will collaborate to make LoweMedia a formidable place for brands, that have a “future mindset”.
The MullenLowe Group (MLG) is one of Sri Lanka’s largest marketing communications groups. The company, which until recently was owned by the US-based Interpublic Group (IPG) and transitioned to local ownership, is a full member affiliate of MullenLowe Worldwide and part of a network of 95 global offices across 65 markets. MullenLowe Worldwide employs, 6400+ people around the world with the Sri Lanka office alone staffing close to 90 employees and is set to expand further. The Sri Lanka Office is well represented across categories covering FMCG, Banking & Finance, Insurance, Leisure, Mobile & Broadband, Fintech, Enterprise Solutions, Milk based foods, Beauty & Personal and Home Care, Carbonated, Energy and Fresh Drinks, Packaged Foods & Biscuits and Sanitary Pads to name a few. This extensive portfolio comes together to dominate 80% of the top 10 and 50% of the top 20 advertised categories in the country. By the sheer representation of diverse industries, the Group draws on a vast amount of category knowledge making it the most influential brand communications group in the country.
WHITE by JAT, from Sri Lanka’s market leader in wood coatings, JAT Holdings PLC, was recently presented with a coveted Silver Award at the SLIM DIGIS 2.2 Awards, for the Best Use of Technology in Marketing. The award recognized WHITE by JAT for innovatively and creatively incorporating technology to deliver an enhanced customer experience. The SLIM DIGIS is organized by the Sri Lanka Institute of Marketing and celebrates Sri Lanka’s best digital work, innovation and talent in today’s digital arena.
This recognition was achieved in partnership with Reap Digital (Private) Limited, which enabled WHITE by JAT to incorporate data analytics into its digital marketing strategy, to identify unique customer insights for precise targeting and highly efficient online conversions. Attesting to the effectiveness of this strategy, in just 2 years, WHITE by JAT has disrupted a market previously dominated by multinational paint brands, gaining a significant slice of market share. WHITE by JAT is a range of innovative brilliant white emulsion paints and undercoats, designed, engineered and manufactured in Sri Lanka by JAT Holdings PLC.
Expressing delight at receiving the accolade and discussing the innovative approach of WHITE by JAT, CEO at JAT Holdings, Nishal Ferdinando explained, “With WHITE by JAT, we set out to create an innovative and modern range of brilliant white paints and undercoats, while meeting the highest quality standards and providing the best and most advanced brilliant white paint in Sri Lanka. To do this, we have invested heavily in R&D and in our marketing and distribution approach, which were both pioneering efforts for the paints and coatings industry in Sri Lanka. Through our exceptional customer and market insights, we were able to create more than just a product, by creating a whole experience around it, which has gained significant traction, and the unbeatable quality of WHITE by JAT has cemented our reputation in the market, leading to ever increasing market share. Therefore, it is indeed an honour to be recognized at the SLIM DIGIS for our innovative approach. I thank the organizers, our customers and our people who made it all possible.”
WHITE by JAT is proven to provide the best finish with its signature “film-like smoothness”, together with the best coverage per litre, opacity and whiteness of any brilliant white paint or coating available in the market today. In keeping with JAT Holdings PLC’s commitment to sustainability, the whole range of WHITE by JAT products are odourless, non-toxic and eco-friendly, while having been designed specifically to withstand the weather and environmental conditions of Sri Lanka. WHITE by JAT also includes two undercoat products including WHITE by JAT Acrylic Interior Wall Filler and WHITE by JAT Exterior Sealer. Products are available for purchase 24/7 at whitebyjat.com, including under flexible payment plans, with deliveries in the Colombo District made within 48 hours, and islandwide within 7 days, free of charge.
General Manager – Marketing at JAT Holdings, Dilshan Rodrigo, also expressed pleasure at receiving recognition at the SLIM DIGIS saying, “While the foundation of WHITE by JAT’s success is the superior quality and reliability of the product, our meteoric rise and popularity with customers and the public, in just 2 years, is directly attributable to our innovative marketing approach. Launching the product amidst the challenges of the pandemic, our online marketing and sales approach, was a winning strategy. We restructured the campaign architecture on Facebook and Google ads using AI technology, while AI-identified audiences were used to create campaigns. New ads were added based on the audience and competitor research outcomes. This, combined with analytics and using digital media to its maximum potential helped us achieve outsized returns on our marketing spend. That’s why this recognition at the SLIM DIGIS is extra special, as the competition was fierce, but clearly, we were among the best.”
Prior to this award, WHITE by JAT has also been recognised with many other local and international accolades in recognition of its unique marketing strategy. Some of these awards include being conferred with a bronze award in the Marketing Disruptors category including three finalist awards in the Home Furnishing and Appliances, David Vs Goliath and E-commerce categories at Effie 2021. The brand also won the Silver award for the Best Mobile Marketing Campaign at the Dragons of Asia 2021 and the Gold Globe award for “MR.WHITE” as the best mobile marketing campaign at the 35th MAA Worldwide Globes 2021. WHITE by JAT also received a Merit award for its Digital Marketing Strategy deployed for the launch of WHITE by JAT at the inaugural FITIS Digital Excellence Awards and Conclave conducted by the Federation of Information Technology Industry of Sri Lanka (FITIS) 2021.
The Sri Lanka Institute of Marketing (SLIM), the national body for marketing in Sri Lanka, announces the extension of the deadline for entries for SLIM National Sales Awards, until the 16th of December 2022. This prestigious event has been held for 20 consecutive years and was devised to reward high performing sales individuals in companies for their great efforts and achievements in the sales fraternity and recognize them at a national level.
Enoch Perera, Project Chair for SLIM National Sales Awards 2022, commented on the extension, “We would like to inform the extension of the deadline for entries, upon considering the requests made by many parties. It is encouraging to witness the vast number of entries we have already received this year, despite the many challenges faced by the sales fraternity of our nation. This event has always been the most significant and sort after event in our calendar and we urge all members of the sales fraternity to take part in the competition and be recognized and rewarded for their outstanding performances and contributions.”
SLIM recognizes the fact that Sales Forces have become an invaluable asset to businesses, especially in the current market, and are crucial to the growth and sustainability of any business. Sales personnel work in a highly competitive environment, and the SLIM National Sales Awards was designed to provide them with the recognition they deserve.
With a broad focus on ensuring diversity and women empowerment in an industry known to be mainly dominated by men, SLIM would also like to call upon and urge all women from the local sales fraternity, to step forward and be recognized and rewarded for their exceptional contributions to the sales fraternity.
Entrant categories for the SLIM NSA 2022 competition include Front-Liners (FL), Sales Executives & Sales Supervisors (SE), Territory Managers (TM), Regional Sales Managers (RSM) & Assistant Sales Managers, National Sales Managers (NSM) & Sales Managers (SM) and other Sales Support Staff. The SLIM National Sales Awards 2022 will be a bumper year where judging will be carried out for entries submitted for year 2021 and 2022. The period of review for each category will be the year ending 31st December 2021 or 31st March 2022 which will be the end of the relevant company’s financial year.
Entry Kits for the SLIM National Sales Awards 2022 can be downloaded at www.NationalSalesAwards.lk. Limited liability companies, partnerships, Public and sole proprietorships that are duly registered and carrying out businesses are also eligible to enter the competition.
Further information regarding the competition can be obtained through Gangani on 0703266988 or Nimasha on 0703258898.
The Electronic World Marketing Summit (eWMS) which was founded by Professor Philip Kotler in 2010 with the objective of creating a better world through marketing, will be held virtually on the 6th and 7th of November, 2022 with the theme ‘Marketing Changes to Meet Sustainability Goals’.
The summit, which will be live-streamed for 48 hours, is set to be delivered by over 172 world-renowned speakers in business, marketing, digital and social media, branding, and all related areas across over 100 countries across the globe who will share their experience and knowledge aiming to unite innovative minds from the corporate, public, non-profit and academia to explore ways to integrate marketing solutions to meet sustainability goals.
The role of the Sri Lanka Institute of Marketing (SLIM) in eWMS was announced at a press conference, that was chaired by President of SLIM Nuwan Gamage, Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director of SLIM Sanath Senanayake, Chairman, University Grants Commission Senior Professor Sampath Amarathunge, Past President of SLIM and AMF Rohan Somawansa, and Dr. Fahim Kibria representing Kotler’s Impact, held at SLIM Business School on the 3rd of November, 2022.
Speaking at the press briefing, the President of SLIM, Nuwan Gamage, stated: “Marketing professionals require motivation, direction, and leadership to move forward in these challenging times as all facets are now subjected to new means and expectations. eWMS is a chance to rethink the sustainable future; what adjustments need to be done and what strategies and tactics could be used to guide businesses through this difficult period and to succeed. With this in mind, SLIM has arrived at a decision to offer 20,000 free e-tickets to local undergraduates and post-graduates who are studying marketing to promote the best global marketing practices among Sri Lanka’s marketing fraternity.”
Rohan Somawansa, one of the Past Presidents of SLIM and AMF, who was instrumental in taking Sri Lanka to the global marketing fraternity, recalled that SLIM started communicating with Kotler Impact in 2011 to promote the brand ‘Sri Lanka’ in the global marketing field. As a result of the affiliation with the AMF and its awards ceremony, SLIM nominated the winning organizations to present three eminent marketing professionals to represent the local marketing fraternity at this eWMS 2022.
This selection primarily was based on their performance which assured an accolade at the awards ceremony, the professionalism of the respective speakers, the number of years of experience and recognition in the global arena that they represent to date.
The nominated speakers are :
● Dilshan Fernando, Chief Executive Officer of Dilmah Ceylon Tea Company, on how the brand ‘Dilmah’ used sustainable marketing models to take the brand globally
● Nalin Karunarathne, Chief Executive Officer at Ceylon Biscuits Limited, on CBL’s global marketing strategies that enabled the brand to span across over 65 countries
● Hemantha Perera, Director , Sales and Marketing of Basilur Tea Export (Pvt) Ltd., on their journey through sustainable marketing efforts to become an award-winning premium brand in over 80 countries.
Rohan Somawansa further added that these personalities will be able to have a positive impact on the developments in the overall marketing field in Sri Lanka.
Representing Kotler’s Impact, Professor Fahim said that SLIM’s involvement with Kotler’s Impact goes back to 2011 and that helped to recognize Sri Lankan marketers at this eWMS. Senior Professor Sampath Amarathunga appreciated SLIM’s giving away 20,000 free e-tickets as a golden opportunity for Sri Lankan University students to learn about global brands, their experience, research insights, global marketing strategies, etc.
For further information, please visit www.worldmarketingsummit.org/ewms-2022.
Lanka Business News is amongst the leading online Business News portals in Sri Lanka, unique for its focus on contemporary business news relevant across multiple industries operating in the country. We present not only the news, but a perspective based on observations and possible implications of a prevailing news item. LBN also provides an insight to the impact of a global economic or industrial development, thus helping stakeholders make informed and calculated decisions.
