Jude Fernando has been appointed the new Group CEO at Melstacorp, bringing over 32 years of extensive experience in finance, supply chain management, sales, marketing, and international business to strengthen the company’s strategic direction.
Melstacorp names Jude Fernando as Group CEO, advancing leadership excellence
Melstacorp PLC has announced the appointment of Jude Fernando as its new Group CEO, marking a strategic leadership transition designed to drive the company’s growth and operational excellence. Fernando’s appointment reflects the company’s commitment to combining deep industry experience with visionary leadership, ensuring continued value creation for stakeholders across Sri Lanka and international markets.
Fernando brings over 32 years of leadership experience across diverse industries, including finance, supply chain management, sales and marketing, and international business. His career is distinguished by senior roles in some of Sri Lanka’s most prominent companies, providing him with a broad perspective on corporate strategy, operational management, and market development.
Prior to joining Melstacorp, Fernando served as Managing Director of Hemas Pharmaceuticals Ltd. and Hemas Surgical and Diagnostics Ltd., where he was instrumental in streamlining operations and expanding business lines. He also held the position of Director/CEO at Janashakthi Insurance PLC and Kotmale Holdings PLC, further demonstrating his capacity to manage large-scale organizations across multiple sectors. His leadership at Cargills FMCG Brands as Executive Director of Sales and Marketing solidified his reputation for driving market growth and customer engagement.
In addition to executive roles, Fernando has contributed his expertise to several corporate boards, including Dunamis Capital PLC, Kelsey Homes, and First Capital Holdings PLC. His prior role as Director of Supply Chain at Hemas Manufacturing, combined with subsequent leadership positions, has given him a comprehensive understanding of operational efficiency, risk management, and strategic planning.
An accountant by profession, Fernando holds an MBA from the University of Wales. He is a Fellow Member of the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (UK), a Chartered Global Management Accountant (UK), a Fellow Member of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (UK), and a Member of the Chartered Institute of Marketing (UK). These qualifications reflect his expertise in financial management, corporate governance, and marketing strategy.
Fernando has also completed Executive Leadership Development Programs at the Stanford Graduate School of Business and at INSEAD, equipping him with advanced leadership, strategic decision-making, and global business perspectives. These programs, combined with his professional experience, prepare him to guide Melstacorp through both domestic and international challenges while driving innovation and sustainable growth.
Melstacorp’s Board of Directors expressed confidence in Fernando’s ability to lead the company into its next growth phase. His appointment is expected to strengthen governance practices, enhance operational performance, and cultivate a culture of excellence across all divisions. The Board highlighted Fernando’s track record of transforming organizations and his deep understanding of business dynamics in Sri Lanka and abroad as key factors in selecting him for this role.
As Group CEO, Fernando will focus on optimizing Melstacorp’s diversified portfolio, which spans beverages, food and personal care, and other strategic business units. By leveraging his expertise in supply chain optimization, financial stewardship, and market strategy, he aims to deliver sustainable value to shareholders while ensuring operational resilience.
His leadership will also emphasize talent development and organizational capacity building, ensuring that Melstacorp remains competitive in an evolving business landscape. Fernando’s approach combines operational discipline with strategic foresight, positioning the company to navigate challenges effectively and capitalize on emerging opportunities.
Melstacorp stakeholders and industry analysts have welcomed the appointment, noting that Fernando’s extensive experience and global exposure make him well-suited to advance the company’s strategic priorities. The company’s commitment to growth, innovation, and governance excellence aligns seamlessly with Fernando’s professional philosophy, setting the stage for a strong and sustainable future.
The appointment of Jude Fernando as Group CEO at Melstacorp signals a new chapter in the company’s journey, emphasizing leadership continuity, expertise-driven management, and a clear focus on delivering long-term value to all stakeholders.