On 3rd October 2024, Admiral Sirimevan Sarathchandra Ranasinghe, WWV, RWP, USP, formally took office as the Chairman of the Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA). Admiral Ranasinghe brings with him a distinguished record of leadership, having previously served as Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy.
His appointment comes at a pivotal time for Sri Lanka’s ports sector, which is essential to the nation’s economy and global trade relations. Admiral Ranasinghe’s extensive expertise in strategic operations, honed through a long and notable naval career, is expected to guide the SLPA towards greater operational efficiency and competitiveness on the international stage.
Educated at St. Joseph’s College and Anuradhapura Central College, Admiral Ranasinghe pursued advanced studies overseas, earning an MPhil in Defence and Strategic Studies from the University of Madras, as well as an MSc in War Studies and Defence Management from the National Defence University in Pakistan. This strong academic foundation, combined with decades of operational experience, gives him a unique perspective on strategic and defence matters—skills that will be crucial in leading the SLPA.
Admiral Ranasinghe commenced his naval career in 1982, distinguishing himself during training at the Naval and Maritime Academy, Trincomalee, before being selected for further training at the prestigious Britannia Royal Naval College in Dartmouth, UK. Over the years, he has held numerous key command positions, including command of various naval vessels, and played a significant role in shaping the strategic operations of the Sri Lanka Navy.
In 2017, he was appointed Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy, and in 2018, he was promoted to the rank of Admiral. His tenure was marked by a strong focus on national security and operational efficiency, which continued after his retirement from active naval service when he assumed the role of Secretary to the Ministry of Ports and Shipping. In this capacity, he further deepened his involvement in the nation’s maritime sector, overseeing critical policy decisions and initiatives.
As Chairman of the SLPA, Admiral Ranasinghe is expected to build on the organisation’s strong foundations, focusing on improving port operations, enhancing maritime security, and fostering collaboration with international partners. His leadership is viewed as a positive step towards elevating the SLPA’s role in global shipping networks and contributing to Sri Lanka’s broader economic development.
