The Sri Lanka Hospitality Graduates’ Association (SLHGA), the country’s largest body of professional hoteliers, has reached a historic milestone with the appointment of its first-ever woman President, Dr. Gitanjali Chakravarthy.

A trailblazer in Sri Lanka’s hospitality sector, Dr. Chakravarthy brings decades of experience that span academia, hotel operations, and global industry expertise. Beginning her career as a Senior Lecturer at the Sri Lanka Institute of Tourism & Hotel Management, she went on to lead some of the country’s finest properties, including Hilton Yala Resort and Uga Ulagalla, combining academic depth with operational excellence and strategic vision.

Her international exposure with COMO Hotels & Resorts, coupled with her expertise in procurement and performance management, has positioned her as a thought leader and innovator in the field. Recognized globally, Dr. Chakravarthy has been honored with the Global Woman Leader Award at the World Women Leadership Congress, the Global CEO Top Business Women Award, and has been listed among Sri Lanka’s Top 50 Career Women. Properties under her stewardship have also received multiple accolades, including the Connie Award, Tripadvisor Traveler’s Choice Award, and several World Luxury Hotel Awards.

As the first woman to lead SLHGA, Dr. Chakravarthy’s appointment is a landmark moment for the association and the wider tourism and hospitality industry in Sri Lanka. Her leadership philosophy anchored in trust, collaboration, and empowerment continues to inspire a new generation of hospitality professionals, while reinforcing Sri Lanka’s reputation as a destination driven by service innovation and talent.

The Sri Lanka Hospitality Graduates’ Association extends its warmest congratulations to Dr. Chakravarthy on this historic achievement and looks forward to her visionary leadership in guiding SLHGA to even greater heights.