Randima Krishnaratne
Windows of opportunity
Sometimes the best opportunities come when you least expect them
Q: How has living in England influenced your personal and professional outlook?
A: It has had a profound impact on me both personally and professionally. Moving from Sri Lanka to take on a global role was an exciting challenge; and it has shaped how I approach life and work in ways I hadn’t fully anticipated.
With its diverse culture, fast-paced professional environment and different social norms, England has introduced me to new perspectives while reinforcing my appreciation for the values I grew up with in Sri Lanka.
Blending these two cultures has not only enriched my life but also strengthened my ability to navigate different professional landscapes.
Professionally, living in England has provided me with a broader and more dynamic outlook. A global role means being part of a larger, more interconnected network where decisions have far-reaching impacts.
This environment has demanded a more strategic mindset and deeper understanding of how global markets operate.
I interact with colleagues from different countries, requiring the ability to adapt quickly to varied cultural and communication styles. My experience in Sri Lanka provided a solid foundation – particularly in resilience and resourcefulness – but the global nature of my role has sharpened my ability to think globally and act decisively.
Personally, living in England has prompted me to reflect more deeply on my identity and the values I carry from Sri Lanka. A significant influence has been England’s multiculturalism, which has enabled me to meet people from all walks of life.
Q: What made you select a career in logistics and supply chain management?
A: My career path in logistics and supply chain management wasn’t planned. It was shaped largely by circumstances and the opportunities that came my way.
My approach has always been to seize opportunities as they arise – especially when I feel the timing is right. I didn’t enter this field with a specific goal in mind. Instead, I’ve always been open to new possibilities and challenges.
A pivotal moment in my career was deciding to move into logistics, which is traditionally considered a male dominated sector. As a woman, I’ve had to navigate certain challenges but also found that this space offers incredible opportunities for growth, innovation and leadership.
It’s empowering to see more women breaking barriers in logistics and supply chain management, and I’m proud to be a part of that shift.
I believe that adaptability and a willingness to explore new paths are essential to building a fulfilling career. For me, success has come from remaining flexible, being open to change and taking on challenges.
If I could offer any advice to others, especially young professionals, it would be to remain open-minded about where your career can take you. Sometimes the best opportunities come when you least expect them and don’t always align with your initial vision.
Embracing uncertainty and being willing to step into unfamiliar territory has paid off for me. It’s important to trust your instincts and make decisions based on what feels right for you at that moment, rather than following someone else’s blueprint for success.
The pitfall to avoid is being complacent in your comfort zone.
FACT FILE
FAMILY
Son – Dulen Wijesinghe
Husband – Tharumal Wijesinghe (works for Hirdaramani Apparel as an international marketing consultant)
Father – Major General Nimal Krishnaratne (retired; worked for the Sri Lanka Army)
Mother – Colonel Dr. Udula Krishnaratne (retired; worked for the Sri Lanka Army)
Brother – Yeshan Krishnaratne (Head of Risk at National Finance in Oman)
SCHOOLING
Visakha Vidyalaya
HIGHER EDUCATION
BSc Genetics – Bangalore University
MBA in international trade and logistics
PRESENT OCCUPATION
Client Programme Director – A.P. Moller-Maersk
COUNTRY OF RESIDENCE
UK
CITY OF RESIDENCE
Chester
CV IN A NUTSHELL
A geneticist turned logistician, Randima Krishnaratne boasts 18 years of experiencein global organisations, working in sales, customer service and supply chains.
With Sri Lankan roots and global expertise, she is known for her persuasive leadership, out of the box thinking, and passion for mentorship, promoting diversity and inclusion across teams.