Shanika Ranaweera is a dynamic HR leader who seamlessly balances her professional responsibilities with her role as a devoted mother to two children, aged 15 and 9. She currently serves as the Head of Human Resources at DHL Sri Lanka and is a key member of the Senior Management Team for DHL Country Management.
Previously, Shanika played a pivotal role at B. Braun, a global healthcare company, where she was part of the Executive Committee. With over two decades of experience in Human Resources, she has contributed to leading public limited companies and conglomerates, including Lanka IOC PLC and McLarens Holdings. Recognized for her outstanding impact on the HR industry, Shanika was honored with the Top50 Professional and Career Women Award for Career Leadership in Human Resources, in November 2024. She was also a finalist for the Vanithabimana National Award in both 2022 and 2023, marking her achievements in celebration of International Women’s Day in Sri Lanka.
Q:Let’s begin with your journey. How did you first step into the world of Human Resources, and what inspired you to choose this path?
After my Advanced Level examinations, I explored various career paths and market trends before choosing Human Resources (HR), which was evolving beyond traditional personnel management. A family friend introduced me to the field, and I started as a Trainee to explore its potential. My early career was dynamic, taking me to locations like Galle and Trincomalee, even during the North-East war. Handling the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation union and hearing bombs while dining at Trinco Blue remain unforgettable. The constant challenges fueled my passion, leading me to pursue professional qualifications and embrace HR as a fulfilling career.
| Focus on your own journey rather than adapting masculine traits to lead in a male-dominated environment. |
Q:Over two decades in HR and leadership roles at top brands, what has been your most defining career moment so far?
At B. Braun, I designed ‘Lead the Way,’ a leadership program for Sri Lanka’s Medical Directors, in partnership with the Ministry of Health. Focused on crisis communication, design thinking, and leadership transformation, it had national impact, strengthening B. Braun’s employer brand while elevating my leadership journey in healthcare.
Q:Many women find it difficult to balance motherhood and a high-powered career. As a mother of two, how have you navigated these parallel responsibilities?
I aspired to marry, have children, and pursue corporate leadership while staying financially independent. With my husband and parents’ support, I navigate challenges while cherishing life’s moments. Motherhood, a role I deeply value, comes with responsibility. Prioritization and God’s grace have helped me balance personal and professional life effectively.
| DEI is not just an initiative; it’s an integral part of our culture. |
Q:What do you think are the essential skills HR leaders must develop to be effective strategic business partners today?
To be effective strategic business partners, HR leaders must engage with all levels of the organization. Strong stakeholder management is essential, as it drives business strategy and enables effective coaching, ensuring alignment between people and organizational goals.
Q:What has been the most challenging situation you’ve faced as an HR leader, and how did you overcome it?
A key challenge I’ve faced as an HR leader is overcoming fixed mindsets that resist change and feedback. To address this, I implement small, strategic initiatives - engaging in meaningful conversations, facilitating learning sessions, and introducing mentoring programs. These efforts gradually foster openness, driving a culture of continuous growth and development.
Q:As a leader, how do you approach supporting diversity, equity, and inclusion within the organizations you work with?
DEI is not just an initiative; it’s an integral part of our culture. Our efforts include financial assistance for crèche facilities to support working parents, purposeful recruitment strategies for non-conventional roles, and training programs and frameworks designed to foster a respectful and inclusive workplace.
Q:What advice do you give to women who are aspiring to climb the leadership ladder in male-dominated industries?
Focus on your own journey rather than adapting masculine traits to lead in a male-dominated environment. As women, we bring unique strengths - embrace and leverage them in your own way. Stay authentic, lead with confidence, and practice benevolent leadership to drive meaningful business results.
Q:How has your leadership style evolved over the years? Would you describe yourself differently today compared to when you started your career?
Over time, I have grown wiser in leading people. I am committed to coaching my team, helping them advance in their careers, because I believe that empowering one person uplifts an entire family. As individuals grow professionally, they also improve their overall quality of life, creating a lasting impact beyond the workplace.
Q:Looking back, what would you tell your younger self on her first day as an HR professional?
I wish I had balanced developing my technical knowledge with participating in sports to build more energy. As you grow in leadership, success becomes less about technical expertise and more about positive energy and strong soft skills to drive business results effectively.
Q:How do you personally define ‘strength’ in a woman’s career journey?
The key is to stay connected to your life’s purpose and the bigger picture while embracing your responsibilities with joy; regardless of the challenges you face.
Q:What does success mean to you now, and has that definition changed over the years?
In the early stages of my career, I saw success as achieving material goals and milestones. Now, I define success as living my purpose with joy and fulfillment while creating a positive impact and inspiring others.
RAPID FIRE
Q:Early bird or night owl?
Early Bird
Q:Your go-to stress reliever?
Exploring new restaurants and cafes in Colombo and travelling with my family
Q:One word your colleagues would use to describe you?
Great mentor!
Q:Your proudest professional achievement?
I am proud of the journey I have come as an HR professional and the impact I have made on my career and my organization(s).
Q:Favorite book or podcast for leadership inspiration?
Listening to my Spiritual Father
Q:Tea or coffee?
Ceylon Tea
Q:Best advice you've ever received?
Every challenging person and situation you encounter is an opportunity for growth. Instead of taking difficulties personally, see them as part of your journey, shaping you into a wiser, stronger version of yourself. Challenges exist for a reason: to help you evolve.
Q:A habit you swear by?
Aligning with my purpose and the bigger picture of my life every day keeps me focused, fulfilled, and driven to make a meaningful impact.
Q:Biggest misconception people have about HR?
It’s a common misconception that HR isn't actively contributing, but in reality, HR plays a crucial role in shaping company culture, driving business strategy, and supporting employees' growth and well-being.
Q:Dream destination for a workcation?
Southern Province, Sri Lanka
Q:Leadership in one sentence?
Driving meaningful results while making a positive impact on society and improving livelihoods, including those of our own employees, is at the core of our mission.
Q:Motherhood in one word?
Nurturing a human being with unconditional love
Q:Work-life balance: Myth or Reality?
Work-life balance is about recognizing your priorities in each moment and being fully present, embracing every experience to the fullest.
Q:One thing you do every day without fail?
My daily prayers
