Tell me about your book STRATEGIC MARKETING? 

It is the first of its kind in Sri Lanka, where theories are contextualized and explained using Sri Lankan corporations whilst simplifying complex Management theory. Students who use this book can benefit from the thought provoking, insightful Sri Lankan case studies and attempt to peruse theory when answering the questions at the end of the chapter. When I was a student, our tutors used foreign examples such as Coke, IKEA, Wal-Mart etc. and we often found it difficult to relate theory with these global companies. Sri Lankan brands such as Dialog, ODEL, Cinnamon, Commercial Bank and Cargills etc. are great case studies by themselves and I went through a process to interview the CEO’s and Owners of these top Blue chips in Sri Lanka and wrote these case studies so that the next generation can learn management principles and concepts using Sri Lankan examples. 

 

How long did you work on it? 3 years

When would it be out on the shelves, and where? Strategic Marketing will be launched on 10 July at the Sri Lanka Foundation Institute at 6pm and everyone’s welcome to join! It will be available at all leading book stores after the launch. 

 

Who is your biggest critique? My wife

 

What is your biggest dream in life? To re-enact Project X

 

What are your favourite brands? HERMES, LV, BURBERRY  

 

How happy are you with all you’ve achieved? Well you know it pays the bills…

 

One thing you love to see in another person? Passion! Even if it’s digging a hole or flying a kite. 

 

When was the last time you tried something new? My wife wouldn’t be too happy if I answer this in public! ‘wink’

 

Where’s your favourite place on earth?

RIO - BRAZIL

 

Who do you sometimes compare yourself to? No one

 

What do you love doing on a Sunday?

Watch the Grand Prix with friends and a Red BULL Racing win!

 

In your life, you’ve had to face a lot of hardship.. how has this helped you today? 

Yes. The first 2 decades was a struggle and I had to face a lot of hardships growing up. What does not kill you, will only make you stronger! 

 

 

If..

 

If you could choose one book as a mandatory read for all school students, which book would you choose? STRATEGIC MARKETING  

 

If you could instill one piece of advice in a newborn baby’s mind, what advice would you give? Learn to enjoy the simple things in life. 

 

If a doctor gave you five years to live, what would you try to accomplish? Write another book on the last 5 years of life. 

 

If your life was a novel, what would be the title and how would your story end? 

Under Dog! Under Dogs Conquer.  

 

 

 

On the Spot

 

Mahela Jayawardene, Kumar Sangakkara - In your opinion who has marketed himself the best apart from cricket? 

They are both great Marketers and Golfers! 

 

Cinnamon Grand, Cinnamon Lakeside, Hilton - Out of the three, your pick? 

 

Cinnamon Grand… They are featured in my book.

 

Who is your favourite Colombo personality? Amaradeva 

 

What’s your favourite song & band? Shout to the Lord - Hillsong

 

Your favorite all time Miss Sri Lanka? My sister of course - Rozanne Diasz. She was a Hottie!

 

 

 

Top 5 in life?

 

1. Family

2. Mac book pro

3. Fitness

4. Travel

5. Golf