Mastercard has announced significant leadership appointments aimed at strengthening South Asia operations, by creating a more integrated model for Sri Lanka, Maldives, Bangladesh, Nepal, and Bhutan.The growing synergies within these countries, especially with regard to the focus on tourism and cross-border trade and payments innovation, makes this integration crucial in scaling the operations and underscores the company’s commitment to unlocking shared growth opportunities across these markets.
Effective immediately, Sandun Hapugoda will assume an expanded leadership role as Group Country Manager overseeing Sri Lanka, Maldives, Bangladesh, Nepal, and Bhutan. In this capacity, he will lead Mastercard’s engagements across these markets, with a focus on deepening partnerships and accelerating digital transformation.
Sandun has successfully supported Mastercard’s business in Sri Lanka and Maldives, delivering strong market growth and strengthening the company’s position as a trusted partner to the ecosystem. He brings extensive experience across payments, digital banking, fintech, blockchain and open banking. He has also contributed to national policy and innovation through roles on committees of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka, Ministry of Technology and National Science Foundation, among others. Sandun currently serves as President of the American Chamber of Commerce in Sri Lanka.
Sandun will continue to report to Gautam Aggarwal, Division President, South Asia, Mastercard.
Mahesha Amarasuriya, has been promoted to Country Manager for Sri Lanka, reporting to Sandun Hapugoda. Mahesha has been with Mastercard for four years as Director for Sri Lanka, supporting the initiatives to expand digital payments and accelerate financial inclusion. With over 23 years of experience in corporate banking, retail and private banking, cards, and electronic payments, she brings deep expertise and leadership to her new role.
She holds a BA (Hons) from the University of Colombo and an MBA from the Postgraduate Institute of Management, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, where she graduated as valedictorian. She has also served in leadership roles across professional bodies including the CIMA Global Council and has been recognized with multiple industry accolades.
“South Asia represents a dynamic and interconnected growth opportunity for Mastercard. By bringing these five markets under an integrated leadership model, we are better positioned to unlock synergies across tourism, trade and digital payments.” said Gautam Aggarwal, Division President, South Asia, Mastercard. “Sandun and Mahesha bring deep market insight and a strong track record of execution. Their leadership will be instrumental in strengthening partnerships, accelerating digitalization and reinforcing Mastercard’s role as a trusted partner to the ecosystem.”
Photo caption: Left to right
Sandun Hapugoda, Group Country Manager – Sri Lanka, Maldives, Bangladesh, Nepal, and Bhutan. Mahesha Amarasuriya – Country Manager, Sri Lanka.
