I’m Chathura Kotagama, a dynamic business consultant with over two decades of senior management experience across five diverse and challenging industries: IT, banking, hospitality, BPO, and higher education. My career has been defined by a relentless pursuit of excellence, a passion for innovation, and a commitment to driving growth and transformation across the organizations I’ve led.
My influence in higher education has been profound, shaping the future of several prominent institutions. I currently serve as the Chief Strategy Officer at SLTC Research University, where I guide the institution’s strategic direction, focusing on expansion and innovation in the academic sector. Previously, I was the Chief Operating Officer at the Colombo Institute of Research and Psychology and the General Manager at ESOFT Metro Campus, where I played a pivotal role in enhancing operational efficiency and academic excellence. Additionally, as the Chief Marketing Officer at BCAS Campus, I spearheaded branding and sales strategies that resulted in significant increases in student enrollment and revenue growth.
In the IT and BPO sectors, my leadership extended both locally and internationally. I held key roles at hSenid Business Solutions, Sri Lanka’s first publicly listed IT company, and C3 Solutions, where I was instrumental in driving business growth and technological advancements. My tenure at BPOS Oman further showcased my ability to lead cross-functional teams in delivering top-tier IT solutions to a global clientele.
My early career was foundationally shaped by my experiences with global giants such as American Express and HSBC Bank Middle East in Oman. While my roles during this period were more junior, they provided me with invaluable insights into the banking industry. Working with such prestigious brands, I was able to observe and learn from industry leaders, understanding the intricacies of operational processes, customer service, and financial management. These formative years laid the groundwork for my future in senior management, where I later applied the knowledge and skills I acquired during this early phase of my career.
In the hospitality industry, I brought my strategic acumen to Al Jarwani Hospitality in Oman, where I managed one of Asia’s largest facility contracts—the construction of the Sultanate of Oman’s latest airport. My role involved overseeing the complex logistics and operational challenges of this massive project, ensuring timely and successful completion while maintaining the highest standards of service and quality.
Throughout my career, I have consistently demonstrated an exceptional ability to manage crises effectively, turning potential setbacks into opportunities for growth. My strategic approach to crisis management has helped organizations navigate turbulent times while minimizing impact and maximizing recovery. Additionally, my expertise in branding and sales has led to substantial revenue increases for the organizations I’ve worked with, proving my capability in driving business success even in challenging markets.
Beyond my corporate roles, I am a passionate entrepreneur with active ventures in hospitality and business advisory. My entrepreneurial spirit drives me to continually seek out new opportunities and challenges, blending strategic foresight with hands-on experience to create successful business models. My ventures are a testament to my ability to navigate complex business environments and deliver tangible results.
My academic credentials include a BSc (Hons) in Business with IT and an MBA in Finance from the University of Staffordshire. I am currently pursuing Doctoral Studies to further deepen my expertise and contribute to the evolving field of business strategy and education.
Throughout my career, I’ve been driven by a commitment to excellence and a desire to make a positive impact on every organization I work with. My global experience, combined with a deep understanding of the local market, positions me uniquely to help businesses and institutions navigate their challenges and achieve sustainable success.