A diverse group of visionary professionals
NISHANTHA PERERA, CHAIRMAN
Nishantha is a seasoned entrepreneur with over 30 years of experience across various industries. After emigrating from Sri Lanka to Japan, he successfully established a trading company, securing exclusive distribution rights for luxury apparel brands. He then expanded into the real estate business, the branching sale of food and beverage products, the import of construction material, and the supply of neem products for organic fertilizer production.
Furthermore, he has played a pivotal role in promoting economic relations between Sri Lanka and Japan. He has served as an advisor for large-scale projects such as the development of Bandaranaike International Airport’s Phase 2 and the Colombo Light Rail project, contributing to the economic development of both countries.
In addition, recognizing Sri Lanka’s potential as a tourism powerhouse, he has actively invested in the hospitality sector,through a partnership with Japanese private sectors.
He is also an avid golfer, applying the focus and patience he developed through the sport to his business ventures. His business philosophy, centered on "happiness, healing, and hope," aims to create lasting happiness for future generations. Just as he values each stroke in golf, his long-term, step-by-step approach to business is one of the keys to his success.
Beyond business achievements, he is widely known for the positive impact he has on those around him. Many who meet him find themselves naturally energized, and his golfing companions often remark, "Playing with him improves my game."
He actively supports the next generation by providing assistance to young golfers and through a continuous tuition assistance program for students.
This approachable and charismatic personality has made him not only a trusted leader in the business world but also a source of strength for those around him. He continues to be a figure who inspires and empowers others, not merely pursuing success but lifting those he encounters along the way.
KUMAR KALYANAKUMAR, DIRECTOR
Kumar is a seasoned entrepreneur and leader in the Australian Real Assets investment and development sector with over 30 years of experience, particularly in banking and investment management. He has managed investments exceeding USD 15 billion across various Real Assets sectors, including hotels, offices, and logistics parks, earning him a strong following among global institutional investors.
Notably, Kumar is a pioneer in attracting institutional capital to the Australian and New Zealand hotel sector, having transacted over USD 2 billion in hotel assets involving major brands like Four Seasons, Marriott, and InterContinental.
He has founded and led significant investment management
firms, including Eureka Funds Management, and held leadership roles in major institutions like AXA Investment Managers and Commonwealth Bank of Australia.
In 2023, Kumar founded Acacia Capital, focusing on investing in social and affordable housing across Australia to provide solutions for disadvantaged communities. He has extensive experience in dealing with governments through PPP arrangements and in transport-oriented investments.
Kumar is recognized for his strong governance, risk management, and regulatory compliance skills, holding various executive and independent director roles. He values integrity and is known as a strategic thinker who drives positive change for businesses, stakeholders, and the community.
Kumar is a avid cyclist, having led multiple two-wheel expeditions across Sri Lanka and Australia, raising funds for various worthy causes. He is a dual citizen of Sri Lanka and Australia.
SHANTHA DE SILVA, CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER
Shantha is a highly accomplished executive with over 40 years of leadership experience in the global hospitality industry. He has a strong track record in hotel and resort development and management, organizational transformation, strategic growth, and leading diversity and inclusion initiatives, particularly in corporate social responsibility. Shantha has held significant global and regional leadership roles with InterContinental Hotel Group (IHG) across various regions, including Southwest Asia and Australasia.
Shantha is a highly accomplished executive with over 40 years of leadership experience in the global hospitality industry. He has a strong track record in hotel and resort development and management, organizational transformation, strategic growth,
and leading diversity and inclusion initiatives, particularly in corporate social responsibility. Shantha has held significant global and regional leadership roles with InterContinental Hotel Group (IHG) across various regions, including Southwest Asia and Australasia.
He also has senior leadership experience with Pro-Invest Group, where he managed a USD 3 billion hotel asset portfolio. His expertise spans operations, branding, commercial strategy, marketing, and guest satisfaction, contributing to global initiatives like the Global Operations Council and the Luxury Talent Board.
Throughout his career, Shantha has led a regional business with a $1 billion annual turnover, managed over 100 hotels with more than 8,000 employees, launched new brands, and spearheaded multi-million-dollar hotel developments and renovations. He is recognized for enhancing asset value and returns through stakeholder collaboration.
Passionate about inclusivity, Shantha transformed a Singapore government initiative into a national platform, created a national recognition program, developed a Centre for Training & Integration, and generated over 1,000 job opportunities for the differently abled.
Shantha is a leadership mentor, coach, and author of the best-selling book "Believe," which guides leaders in unlocking their potential. A citizen of Sri Lanka and Australia, Shantha is, driven by a commitment to making a positive impact on the world.
