Laksiri Wickramage, new Chairman Derana

APPOINTMENT: Veteran marketer Laksiri Wickramage, was recently appointed Chairman of “Derana” - the fastest growing premium entertainment channel in Sri Lanka.

Launched in October 2005, Derana is an islandwide transmission, concentrating primarily on high quality entertainment and news content. Having had an unprecedented response from the local viewers, Derana is now ready to take another major leap, offering further improved programming content under the stewardship of the channel’s new Chairman.

Laksiri, a product of Trinity College, Kandy has over two decades of experience in the field of Marketing, where he has contributed towards building one of Sri Lanka’s “best loved brands” - Elephant House.

At the time of leaving Ceylon Cold Stores, a subsidiary of John Keells Holdings, he was the Vice President of the Food and Beverage Sector. Commenting on his interests Laksiri noted, “it has been my childhood dream to direct a feature film. I must confess I had a parallel interest in the Arts, may be one which was closer to my heart than even my trade which is Marketing.

Though it was sad to leave JKH, “Derana” opened a new avenue for me to fulfill my dream”. Commenting further he said “I’m very hopeful that Derana’s dedicated team will be able to bring a brand new experience to Sri Lankan television viewers and make a significant difference in the industry.

The independence with which I am able to spearhead the channel’s future expansion with the support of the Directors and the Management and the commitment of the team, is something I’m truly happy about because it gives me the freedom to do what’s best for the channel, the team and our valued audience”.