Sudash Liyanage, DTM

Relevant work experience and how it relates to Toastmasters and your role as a Board Member:

Out of my 35 years of corporate experience, over 12 years in leading a Strategic Business Unit and 16 years as an international marketing and brand-building specialist for multinational corporations align well with the responsibilities of a Toastmasters Board Member. I bring strategic leadership, global marketing insights, and the ability to navigate cultural differences, which are vital for expanding Toastmasters' international presence.

Additionally, my expertise in establishing new business units, signing international strategic partnerships, penetrating new global markets, and ensuring customer care and retention will relate well and support our organization's growth, member engagement, long-term sustainability, and realization of Toastmasters' new envisioned future.

What experience do you have in strategic planning?

I am an experienced strategic planner with over 22 + years of expertise in both corporate settings, to achieve profitable goals and to drive non-profit organizations.

I have successfully developed and executed strategic plans in various contexts and corporations that I have worked and currently working with. Also served on the Advisory Board of a gated community of 1,210 homes.

As the 2016/17 District 82 Director for Toastmasters, I introduced innovative strategies such as 'Club Retention Chairs' to retain clubs, 'Road Shows' to attract new members, and the "Quality Club Award" to help clubs deliver a consistent, High -quality member experience across the District.

What experience do you have in the area of finance?

I have substantial experience in financial management, having been responsible for budgeting, financial planning, and performance monitoring in both corporate and non-profit settings for over 23 years.

As the leader of a Strategic Business Unit for over 14 years in a multinational conglomerate, I have overseen million-dollar budgets, ensuring profitability through cost control, revenue growth strategies, inventory management, and resource optimization to make my unit a profitable venture.

Additionally, as a District 82 Director for Toastmasters, I managed the District 82 Director for toastmasters, I managed District's finances, including budget creation, expense tracking, and proper payment disbursement, whilst ensuring adherence to Toastmasters International financial policies, which significantly contributed to the district being ranked No.3 in the world.

Further, I am a qualified Certified Management Accountant and have had hands-on experience in managing finances in volunteer organizations.

What experience do you have in developing policies?

I have extensive experience in developing policies across diverse corporate sectors and non-profit environments. As a senior management team member in a multinational conglomerate, I have contributed to creating and implementing policies focused on operational efficiency, financial control, organizational growth, and resource management. These policies ensured compliance with corporate governance standards and contributed to sustainable business growth, increased profitability, employee satisfaction and retention, brand equity, and stakeholder value. As District Director for Toastmasters, I developed and enforced district-level policies aligned with Toastmasters International's guidelines, enhancing member retention and engagement. Additionally, as the Founder and President of the Pest Managers Association of Sri Lanka, I spearheaded in developing of a comprehensive policy framework for the Pest Control Industry in Sri Lanka, that ensures the protection of both humans and the environment. My approach to policy development emphasizes practicality, alignment with organizational goals, and adaptability to changing environments

What lessons did you learn from previous leadership positions?

My previous leadership roles as the Region Advisor for two Terms and As the District Director, have taught me many important lessons that shape my approach today.

First, is incidental adaptability. Leading in both corporate and non-profit environments has shown me the importance of being flexible and collective decision-making whilst balancing short-term needs with long-term goals.

Secondly, effective communication. Whether leading diverse teams or engaging with stakeholders, clear and transparent communication fosters trust and alignment with organizational objectives.

I have also learned the value of collaboration- leadership is empowering others, encouraging diverse perspectives, and building strong teams that are motivated to achieve shared goals.

Further recognized the importance of financial discipline that aligns with strategic objectives to drive results.

In summary, I learned the diversity of 10 districts as an RA, facilitating and retaining positivity through continuous recognition and appreciation. As District Director realization of true servant leadership in handling crisis situations, Art of conflict resolution and importance of adhering to policies and protocols. were some of the lessons learnt.

Finally, I have come to appreciate the importance of Integrity and leading by example- in other words, the impact of our core values that build a positive organizational culture

What experience and key strengths would you bring to the Board of Directors?

I bring 35 years of experience in corporate leadership, international marketing, strategic business development, and non-profit governance to the board. As a Chartered Marketer, I bring 16 years of global brand-building expertise, to help expand Toastmasters' global recognition, drive engagement, and boost membership and club growth. My background in navigating cultural dynamics and creating innovative strategies could assist the board members in positioning Toastmasters as the most sought-after brand for communication and leadership. In addition, as a Strategic Business Unit leader in a multinational conglomerate, equipped myself with strong skills in strategic planning, financial management, and resource optimization which are critical in supporting the board in driving the 2024 strategic plan.

With 18+ years in Toastmasters as a member, Charter President, District Director, and Region Advisor, I embody servant leadership and understand the organization's mission deeply.

I can also bring policy development and compliance experience, as I led the creation of industry-wide policies and procedures, from the ground up as the Founder and President of the Pest Managers Association of Sri Lanka.

My key strengths- strategic thinking, global perspectives, managerial & financial acumen, and collaborative leadership style can certainly contribute to sustainable growth and align with our mission and envisioned future.

Why do you want to serve as an International Officer/Director?

No one can 'steer the ship from the shore.' To make a meaningful contribution, I must be actively involved. After serving two terms as Region Advisor, I feel this is the right time to step into the role of International Director, where I can provide fresh perspectives aligned with organizational goals and fulfill the needs of districts and members. I am eager to join the Toastmasters Board to lead the organization into the future, leveraging digital and AI technologies to ensure we remain the first choice provider of experiential learning in communication and leadership. I am also passionate about assisting in developing new Pathways learning programs to meet the demands of the next century. By contributing my board and regional experience, I am to reciprocate my gains by helping implement the strategic Plan 2024 and uphold the high standards of leadership excellence that Toastmasters embodies. Also, I am proud to serve as an ambassador for Toastmasters, promoting individual excellence in pursuit of the organization's envisioned future.

What volunteer experience do you have outside of Toastmasters?

Founder and Charter President, Pest Managers Association of Sri Lanka (PMASL) - 2016 to Present
As the visionary of the first-ever association representing Sri Lanka's pest control sector, I spearheaded the establishment of professional standards, developed Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and collaborated with the Ministry of Health on policy development.

Council Member, Certified Management Accountants (CMA) Australia -
An active member of the Continuous Professional Development Board, contributing to the growth and advancement of the accounting profession.

Treasurer and Advisory Committee Member, Nivasie Community Welfare Association (NCWA)
Oversaw financial management and participated in advisory roles focused on welfare, security, environment, and sanitation for the community

Fellow Member, Institute of Chartered Professional Managers (FCPM), Sri Lanka
Contributed to the organization's efforts in fostering continuous professional development and expanding professional networks across various industries.

Visiting Faculty, Open University of Sri Lanka and Sri Lanka Technical College
Volunteered as a faculty member, delivering training on soft skills, communication, and leadership development

Life Member, Alumni Association of the Postgraduate Institute of Management (PIM), University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka

Associate Member, Japan-Sri Lanka Technical and Cultural Association (JASTECA), Sri Lanka

Have you worked with other Boards of Directors outside of Toastmasters? If so, describe your experience.

I have worked with many other Boards of Directors of various corporate entities as a part of my official responsibilities namely;

As the Head of Environmental Science at Hayleys Agriculture Holdings Limited (for 14 years), of Hayleys Group, which is a Sri Lanka-based multinational conglomerate. Currently, I work closely with my board of directors in setting policies and strategic direction for the business unit & establishing a branch in Maldives.

Worked as Vice President (International Marketing) - at Richard Peiris Exports sector. (For 4 years) and involved in developing international brand-building programs with the CEO and board of directors.

Regional Marketing Manager of world-famous DILMAH branded teas with the MJF Group (for 6 Years), which is a family-owned corporate giant and I was able to develop brand marketing strategies directly with the Chairman, Marketing Director, and the board of directors for European, Middle Eastern, and Asian markets.

In the capacity of Export Manager at Dankotuwa Porcelain Limited (for 4 years), I was able to develop and present market penetration and expansion strategies to the board. Then those were implemented successfully to increase the country portfolio from 8 to 21.

Further, I served on the advisory boards of volunteer organizations mentioned above and was able to establish policies, protocols, and strategies to reach the objectives of such associations.

In your opinion, what are Toastmasters International’s major objectives and how would you work to achieve them?

As the 2024 Strategic Plan correctly elaborates, Toastmasters must become the Beacon or the forerunner of empowering people worldwide to develop communication and leadership skills. Accordingly, Major objectives of the Toastmasters International are to action strategies discussed in the Strategic Plan 2024 as the stepping stone for the new century to create more effective communicators and leaders. At present as the world is resetting itself after the pandemic, we have three additional objectives that take precedence namely; regain the membership or realize organizational growth, secure young membership in capitalizing and strengthening the Pathways program, and provide quality member experience constantly across the globe.

I believe that my experience and skills will certainly help the realization of the objectives stated above as a board member in developing Strategic Initiatives together with other board members to regain and reconnect with past members and to increase membership by
(1) Establish a comprehensive marketing strategy based on the brand promise,
(2) Enhance facilitation of successful marketing at the club and district level and
(3) Engage advertising and social media experts, to run a global brand marketing covering all districts utilizing their outside marketing budgets.

Additional information about candidate:

I am from Colombo Sri Lanka, the Island called "Pearl of Indian Ocean". My wife Deepani a Secretary and we have been happily married for 32 years and blessed with twins - a boy and a girl. The son Sahas is reading for a Masters in Architecture and works at a prominent bank and the daughter Sasini completed a degree in International Business. She is currently doing her Master's at the University of Canada West in Vancouver Canada

My other interests are observing character traits of individuals, tracking nature trails, traveling, and nature photography.

I carry my servant leadership traits thanks to my Mother who is a Girl Guide Commissioner, in the Sri Lanka Guirl Guides Association at the age of 85 years.