Shangri-La Hotels Sri Lanka is pleased to announce the appointment of Kanishka Udawatta as Director of Sales – Leisure, overseeing both Shangri-La Colombo and Shangri-La Hambantota. In this key leadership role, Kanishka will be responsible for driving the leisure business segment across the group’s Sri Lankan properties, working closely with global partners and key markets to strengthen Shangri-La’s footprint in the region.

Kanishka brings with him over two decades of experience in the hospitality industry, with more than 15 years specifically in sales across leisure, corporate, and MICE segments. Prior to joining Shangri-La, he served at Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts for over 11 years, where he held a variety of senior positions—most recently leading leisure sales for the group’s resort portfolio. His earlier years were shaped by a six-year tenure at the Taj Group, giving him a strong grounding in both city and resort hotel operations.

An alumnus of the Sri Lanka Institute of Tourism and Hotel Management, Kanishka is well known for his strategic approach to sales, stakeholder management, and market development. His deep understanding of the industry and his ability to foster strong client relationships have contributed to his long-standing success.

In addition to his corporate achievements, Kanishka is a highly active figure in the Sri Lankan hospitality community. He currently serves as the Head of PR, Communications, and Social Media for the Sri Lanka Hospitality Graduates Association (SLHGA) and also holds the position of General Secretary of the Travel Trade Sports Club (TTSC)—two of the country’s most recognized industry bodies. Through these roles, he plays a vital part in strengthening community ties, promoting industry development, and nurturing the next generation of hospitality professionals.

Commenting on his new appointment, Kanishka said, “It’s truly an honour to join a globally admired brand like Shangri-La. I’m excited to contribute to the growth of our leisure business and to showcase the beauty and potential of Sri Lanka through our two exceptional properties.”

The TravelTalkAsia editorial team joins the travel trade and hospitality industry in congratulating Kanishka Udawatta on this significant career milestone and wishes him continued success in this exciting new chapter with Shangri-La.