GRI appoints Thanuja Samaranayake as COO

Thanuja Samaranayake has joined GRI as the tyre maker’s chief operating officer, effective 1 March 2024. Introducing the new COO, GRI describes Samaranayake as an “accomplished global operations strategist and sustainability leader” who has a “proven track record of driving revenue growth, enhancing supply chain resilience, and achieving sustainability goals across diverse industries.”

As GRI shares, Samaranayake brings more than 22 years of specialised experience in operational excellence and sustainability leadership to his new role. “Thanuja’s appointment as chief operating officer underscores GRI’s commitment to operational excellence and sustainability,” remarks Dr Mahesha Ranasoma, chief executive officer of GRI. “His extensive experience and proven leadership will be invaluable as we continue to innovate and drive growth.”

Prior to joining GRI, Samaranayake held positions at organisations such as Ansell Health Care Ltd, Ansell Textiles Lanka (Pvt) Ltd, Fonterra Brands Lanka, and Singer PLC in Sri Lanka. GRI credits him with a “pivotal role” in driving organisational success and fostering a culture of engaged innovation during these previous remits.

“I am thrilled to join GRI as chief operating officer and be part of a forward-thinking organisation committed to sustainable practices,” says Thanuja Samaranayake. “I look forward to working closely with the team to streamline operations and contribute to GRI’s continued success.”

UK & local qualifications

Thanuja Samaranayake holds an MSc in Sustainability Management from the University of Bedfordshire and a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt certification from TQMI Colombo. He actively participates in various professional affiliations, including serving on the Curriculum Development Committee for NVQSL and collaborating with the Sri Lanka Army for Social Development Initiatives.

“We are excited to welcome Thanuja to the GRI team,” says Prabhash Subasinghe, managing director of GRI. “His dedication to optimising operations and commitment to sustainable practices will further strengthen our organisation as we continue to lead the way in the specialty tyre industry.”

According to GRI, Samaranayake’s appointment “marks an exciting new chapter” for the company as it continues the mission to “deliver innovative and sustainable tyre solutions to customers worldwide.”