AIA executive recognised for leadership amid economic challenges

Industry contributions highlighted

AIA executive recognised for leadership amid economic challenges

Insurance News

By Roxanne Libatique

The Geneva Association has announced Chathuri Munaweera (pictured), chief executive officer of AIA Sri Lanka, as the recipient of its 2024 Women in Insurance Award.

The award acknowledges her leadership in Sri Lanka’s challenging economic environment and her efforts to advance diversity, inclusivity, and financial inclusion in the insurance sector.

Selection process for 2024 Women in Insurance Award

The judging panel included industry leaders such as:

  • Pauline Leclerc-Glorieux, CEO of BNP Paribas Cardif
  • Lee Yuan Siong, AIA group chief executive and president
  • Charles F. Lowrey, chairman and CEO of Prudential Financial

The panel cited Munaweera’s guidance during Sri Lanka’s economic and political crisis, ensuring operational stability while continuing to serve clients and employees.

Geneva Association 2024 Women in Insurance Award winner

Munaweera, who became CEO of AIA Sri Lanka in 2022, implemented measures to support employees and agents during the country’s economic challenges.

The Geneva Association said that Munaweera’s leadership helped maintain the company’s financial stability and its position as a prominent insurer in the region.

Munaweera also prioritised increasing workforce diversity, raising female representation from 41% to 48%, introduced insurance products targeted at women, and strengthened partnerships with banks to enhance financial inclusion.

Munaweera, in her remarks, attributed the achievement to her team.

“This recognition highlights the incredible work of team AIA Sri Lanka whom I was privileged to lead through the toughest of times. It also underscores the culture of empowerment fostered by AIA Group, which enables us to reach our full potential,” she said.

Importance of leadership amid economic challenges

Leclerc-Glorieux praised Munaweera for her ability to align strategic initiatives with operational execution, stating that her leadership represents a strong example for future leaders in the insurance sector.

“As a business leader, Chathuri Munaweera demonstrated her ability to successfully bridge strategic vision with day-to-day operations and optimise outcomes for all stakeholders,” she said.

See LinkedIn post here.

Lowrey said that Munaweera’s recognition reflects the resilience of the insurance industry during challenging times.

“I want to congratulate Chathuri Munaweera on winning the Geneva Association’s 2024 award and for her extraordinary achievements as CEO of AIA Sri Lanka. Chathuri’s leadership embodies the insurance industry’s resilience – and unwavering commitment to customers and employees – in the face of tough challenges,” he said.

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