Thiuni Samaraweera

Project Leadership & Stakeholder Management: Successfully led high-impact projects from inception to completion, to secure high-value contracts, licenses, and regulatory approvals for large-scale oil storage and aviation fuel supply projects in Sri Lanka's newly liberalized energy sector. Collaborated effectively with government ministries, regulatory bodies, and key stakeholders such as Airport Aviation Services Ltd (AASL) and the Sri Lanka Ports Authority.

Strategic Business Development & Licensing: Spearheaded strategic initiatives to secure licenses for importing, storing, and supplying aviation and marine fuel, establishing Cannel Pvt. Ltd as the first private company to do so in Sri Lanka. Successfully obtained Board of Investment Approval under the "Hub Regulation" to enable entrepôt trading and secure significant tax benefits.

Procurement & Sales Optimization: Established robust procurement processes, leveraging financing facilities from local banks and negotiating competitive long-term contracts with international fuel refineries and traders. Developed strong relationships with international commercial partners to position Cannel Pvt. Ltd as a premier Jet A1 supplier at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA), offering transparent pricing, flexible payment options, and reliable service.

Data-Driven Decision Making: Utilized advanced data collection and analytical skills to monitor market trends, identify growth opportunities, and make informed decisions regarding fuel procurement, pricing, and sales strategies. Developed and maintained key performance indicators (KPIs) to track project progress and financial performance, presenting results to senior leadership.

• Project Leadership & Investment Facilitation: Successfully spearheaded a 200 MW renewable energy project valued at $20 million USD, leading efforts from the initial Expression of Interest (EOI) phase through government approvals and the signing of the Power Purchase Agreement (PPA). Secured an investor for the project and oversaw its implementation.
• International Business Development & Diplomacy: Actively participated in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) projects and negotiations. Appointed by the company to coordinated with Dr. Palitha Kohona (Former Ambassador of Sri Lanka to China) to attract new investment opportunities from China to Sri Lanka.
• Strategic Market Analysis & Business Development: Analyzed market data to identify growth opportunities and evaluated early-stage business prospects. Developed tailored communication strategies to effectively convey value propositions and led contract negotiations with key stakeholders.
• Executive Communication & Reporting: Prepared and delivered comprehensive business reviews and presentations to senior management, highlighting project progress, milestones, and significant events.