Meet Welapura Jayathilake

Originally from Sri Lanka, Welapura Jayathilake is currently pursuing a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Finance at Wittenborg University of Applied Sciences. With over 14 years of experience in the banking sector and associate membership at the Institute of Bankers of Sri Lanka, he is focused on advancing his career to the top of Sri Lanka’s banking and finance industry.

Before joining Wittenborg, Jayathilake completed a master’s in Business Administration at the University of Bedfordshire and a Postgraduate Executive Diploma in Bank Management in Sri Lanka. His career in one of Sri Lanka’s largest private banks allowed him to gain extensive skills in customer service, financial analysis and relationship management.

Jayathilake chose to study in the Netherlands and at Wittenborg for its high-quality English programmes, international environment and practical approach to higher education. “Many top positions in Sri Lankan finance and banking industry have completed their studies in foreign countries and gained international experience. Foreign education and experience is identified as a key to achieve higher positions in Sri Lanka,” he says.

At Wittenborg, Jayathilake is keen to develop analytical and quantitative skills, including financial modelling, accounting, data analysis and proficiency with Excel, as well as soft skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, strategic thinking, communication, leadership and teamwork.

He has already demonstrated adaptability in his career. “I was handling credit facilities and loan appraisals manually when our bank introduced a fully automated risk-based system. After a few training sessions, I understood how the system generates data for risk factors like creditworthiness and compliance, and I successfully adapted to interpreting system outputs rather than manually appraising each loan,” he explains.

Looking ahead, Jayathilake aims to excel in both administration and finance, using his international education and professional experience to further his career. He keeps updated on industry trends through websites, market updates, YouTube and LinkedIn posts. Colleagues and friends describe him as an ethical worker with good manners, highlighting his teamwork and integrity.

Reflecting on his early experience at Wittenborg, he says, “Wittenborg's introduction week was fantastic to collaborate with fellow international students.”

Interested in learning more about Jayathilake’s background, competencies and interests? Check out his LinkedIn profile and feel free to reach out here.