Dr. Lal Gunasinghe
Endearing work ethic
Q: What motivated you to move to Singapore for work – and how has the experience been so far?
A: When I received a job offer from Singapore Airlines in 1989, several positive factors stood out – particularly the financial and benefits package.
However, what truly attracted me was the opportunity for career progression as a young aircraft maintenance engineer.
At the time, I was working for Air Lanka, which operated an ageing fleet of L-1011 TriStar aircraft – a model that had been discontinued. In contrast, Singapore Airlines was placing orders for new aircraft and it was recognised as one of the leading airlines in the world.
Eager to learn and work on these new aircraft, I embraced my new life in Singapore with enthusiasm and dedication.
Q: How does the work culture in Singapore compare to that of Sri Lanka?
A: In general, Singaporean workers take great pride in their work and possess a strong sense of national identity. They are dedicated to upholding this image through their efforts.
Workers are well rewarded for their contributions as many businesses in Singapore have profit sharing arrangements tied to company performance. This encourages staff to go the extra mile to ensure their companies’ success, creating a win-win situation for both employers and employees.
Q: And how do Singaporeans manage their work-life balance in a fast-paced environment?
A: Singaporeans are known for their strong work ethic, often putting in long hours at their jobs. The standard regulation sets the expected working week at 44 hours but many professionals frequently exceed this.
On the other hand, Singaporeans also value their time off, and make the most of it by travelling extensively and spending quality time with their loved ones during well-earned trips abroad.
Q: And last but not least, how do you stay connected with Sri Lankan culture while living in Singapore?
A: There are several ways that people of Sri Lankan origin stay connected to their native cultures. I’m actively involved with the Singapore Sri Lanka Business Association – where I currently serve as Treasurer – as well as the Singapore Sinhala Buddhist Association.
Additionally, Sri Lanka is a short three-and-a-half hour flight from Singapore, making it easier for residents to maintain these connections by
visiting their homeland.
Eager to learn and work on these new aircraft, I embraced my new life in Singapore
FACT FILE
FAMILY
Wife
Two sons
HIGHER EDUCATION
Doctorate in Business Administration – Walden University
PRESENT OCCUPATION
Head of Quality and Safety Compliance
COUNTRY OF RESIDENCE
Singapore
CITY OF RESIDENCE
Singapore
CV IN A NUTSHELL
Dr. Lal Gunasinghe is a licensed aircraft maintenance engineer with active licences from the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) and European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA).
His experience spans a wide range of aircraft including the Boeing B737, 747 and 777, as well as the Airbus A320, A330, A340, A380 and A350.
Throughout his career, Gunasinghe has worked with SIA Engineering Company in maintenance operations, planning, customer liaison and continual improvement processes.
Presently, he’s responsible for ensuring adherence to regulatory and customer requirements while overseeing aircraft maintenance.
Additionally, Gunasinghe completed a doctoral research study on sustaining a competitive advantage in aircraft maintenance operations at Walden University.