Summary
Overview
Work history
Education
Skills
Languages
Affiliations
Accomplishments
Certification
References
Timeline
Generic
SHEHAN JAYAWARDENA

SHEHAN JAYAWARDENA

Dubai,UAE

Summary

Customer-focused sales professional with 29 years of experience in relationship building and account retention. Proven track record in expanding networks, implementing pricing strategies, and managing inventory effectively. Skilled in identifying customer needs and delivering tailored solutions. Seeking to leverage extensive background in senior roles within a dynamic organization.

Overview

25
25
years of professional experience
2
2
years of post-secondary education
1
1
Certification

Work history

Senior Business Development Consultant – Corporate

Bupa Global
Dubai, UAE
07.2023 - 06.2025
  • Activated Tier 1 brokers AON, Willis Towers Watson, and Pacific Prime after six-year hiatus.
  • Reinvigorated strategic broker relationships to enhance market share in corporate IPMI sector.
  • Drove business acquisition through customised propositions and impactful broker engagement.
  • Conducted financial analyses to support informed decision-making processes.
  • Strengthened client relationships via regular communication and feedback sessions.
  • Assessed potential risks to mitigate adverse impacts on operations.
  • Managed high-level negotiations to secure critical contracts.
  • Implemented strategic growth plans for business expansion.

Corporate Client Manager / Key Account Manager

Bupa Global
Dubai, UAE
11.2016 - 06.2023
  • Implemented strategies that enhanced client retention rates.
  • Managed relationships with clients to foster long-term partnerships.
  • Oversaw strategic corporate client portfolio exceeding $59M in MENA and India.
  • Achieved over 95% retention rate during seven-year tenure through proactive engagement.
  • Led complex renewals, pricing strategies, RFP responses, and escalations with regional brokers.
  • Cultivated consultative relationships with Tier 1 brokers and multinational clients.
  • Acted as lead contact for 36+ high-value accounts across various industries.

Account Manager

MetLife
Dubai, UAE
01.2014 - 10.2016
  • Strengthened strategic partnerships with Emirates NBD to enhance Bancassurance offerings.
  • Increased SME segment sales by 300% year on year
  • Optimised advisor performance through targeted coaching and development initiatives.
  • Analysed sales data to identify growth opportunities and inform decision-making.
  • Managed business relationships to ensure client loyalty and commitment.
  • Prepared detailed reports offering insights into account performance metrics.
  • Led team meetings to facilitate efficient communication and project updates.
  • Conducted market research to remain informed on industry trends.

Financial Consultant

Nexus Insurance Brokers
Dubai, UAE
01.2012 - 12.2013
  • Advised HNW clients on insurance and investments by increasing profitability by 10% YOY.
  • Developed comprehensive financial plans by analysing customer's current situations.
  • Prepared comprehensive reports detailing financial status and progress towards goals.
  • Identified potential risks, implemented necessary mitigation measures..
  • Networked extensively to generate new business opportunities-broadened client base.
  • Conducted regular review meetings to ensure financial plans remain effective.
  • Attended industry conferences, enhanced professional development and industry knowledge.


Senior Branch / Asst. Regional Manager

Santander UK PLC
London, United Kingdom
01.2000 - 01.2012
  • Achieved recognition as top branch manager for three consecutive years.
  • Promoted 3 times within 2 years in recognition of performance
  • Managed 17 Retail branches in Central London regions.
  • Led high-performing teams across Central London to enhance operational effectiveness.
  • Implemented robust contingency plans, minimising business disruption during crises.
  • Conducted regular audits, ensuring accuracy in risk and control practices.
  • Facilitated staff training programmes, enhancing team morale and productivity.

Education

Global Executive MBA - Business, Strategy, Commercial

University of Manchester
United Kingdom
02.2021 - 12.2022

BSc (Hons) - Pharmacology

The Open University of Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka

GCE A-Levels - Economics, Commercial Strategy, Accounting, Business

Royal College Colombo
Sri Lanka

Skills

  • Business Development & Growth Strategy
  • Strategic Key Account Management
  • Commercial acumen
  • Compliance understanding
  • Salesforce proficiency
  • Value proposition development
  • Product development oversight
  • Sales Leadership & Team Development
  • Corporate Health Insurance
  • New Business Acquisition
  • Client Retention & Engagement
  • Broker Relationship Management
  • Process Improvement & Cost Control

Languages

English
Proficient (C2)
Sinhalese
Proficient (C2)

Affiliations

  • Cricket
  • Golf
  • Tennis
  • Formula One Motor Racing
  • Cycling
  • Self Development
  • Travel and Exploring

Accomplishments

  • Top Branch Manager for 3 consecutive Years in Santander
  • Travelled to Dubai (2005), Cape Town (2009), Türkiye (2007) On performance based incentive recognition events with Santander.
  • Awarded a senior executive retention share scheme in Santander
  • Received highest performance ratings year on year consistently

Certification

  • LOMA
  • CII Award

References

References available upon request.

Timeline

Senior Business Development Consultant – Corporate

Bupa Global
07.2023 - 06.2025

Global Executive MBA - Business, Strategy, Commercial

University of Manchester
02.2021 - 12.2022

Corporate Client Manager / Key Account Manager

Bupa Global
11.2016 - 06.2023

Account Manager

MetLife
01.2014 - 10.2016

Financial Consultant

Nexus Insurance Brokers
01.2012 - 12.2013

Senior Branch / Asst. Regional Manager

Santander UK PLC
01.2000 - 01.2012

BSc (Hons) - Pharmacology

The Open University of Sri Lanka

GCE A-Levels - Economics, Commercial Strategy, Accounting, Business

Royal College Colombo

Similar Profiles

Create profile
SHEHAN JAYAWARDENA