Reading top-ranked journal articles
Affliations
Harshana Bandara
Senior Management
Muscat,MA
Summary
Detail-oriented team player with strong organizational skills. Ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously with a high degree of accuracy. To seek and maintain full-time position that offers professional challenges utilizing interpersonal skills, excellent time management and problem-solving skills. Organized and dependable candidate successful at managing multiple priorities with a positive attitude. Willingness to take on added responsibilities to meet team goals.
Overview
24
24
9
9
Education Project Supervision
2
2
Languages
2
2
Affliations
4
4
Education Project Supervision
Work History
Assistant Manager – Commercial
Emirates Shipping Container Line DMDEST
Muscat
05.2019 - Current
- In-charge of giving both export and import rates and pricing on behalf of principal
- Handling and guiding team of One Commercial Executive and One Customer Service Executive
- Preparing weekly and monthly business reports, yearly and interim budgets to ESL top management
- Sales Coverage included Sohar, Nizwa, and Muscat Regions
- Regular Sales Visits and discuss operational issues, concerns etc., to ensure that relationships are built and maintained on regular basis
- Attending and preparing yearly tenders
- Developing key accounts i
- Handling all major Global Freight Forwarders
- Effectively communicating with customers internally and externally in order to offer customer seamless resolution to any issues that may impact their relationship with ESL Line
- Gathering Market Intelligence on Dry Exports ans Imports
- Oman and disseminated data to fix rates on Far East, Est Africa trades on a Seasonal Basis helping in Constant review of Revenue and Yield Opportunities for all trades
- Achieve sales excellence in container vessel calls at Sohar to ensure satisfaction of customer and all concerned
- Analyze Trends and Prepare Business Plans to Oman customers
- On Campaigns, successful increased market share of ESL on exports out of Oman to Far East / East Africa Campaigns
- On Imports Campaigns have provided in detailed study on Sohar Free zone
- Managing sales KPIs' and regular follow up where necessary.
- Boosted employee morale by recognizing outstanding performance and celebrating team accomplishments.
- Maintained clean, safe, and organized store environment to enhance customer experience.
- Managed inventory levels to minimize stockouts while reducing overhead costs.
- Coordinated with vendors to ensure timely delivery of products and resolve any supply chain issues.
- Implemented staff training programs, enhancing product knowledge and improving customer service skills.
- Improved customer satisfaction by addressing and resolving complaints promptly.
- Facilitated clear communication between employees and upper management through regular meetings and updates.
- Developed strong working relationships with staff, fostering positive work environment.
- Monitored sales trends to adjust pricing strategies accordingly for optimal profitability.
- Promoted teamwork within workplace by encouraging collaboration among staff members on various projects tasks.
- Collaborated with management team to develop strategic plans for business growth and improvement.
- Offered hands-on assistance to customers, assessing needs, and maintaining current knowledge of consumer preferences.
- Identified and communicated customer needs to supply chain capacity and quality teams.
- Maintained positive customer relations by addressing problems head-on and implementing successful corrective actions.
- Used industry expertise, customer service skills and analytical nature to resolve customer concerns and promote loyalty.
Commercial Manager –Operations for Break-Bulk and RORO Cargo
Gulf Agency Company (Oman) L.L.C.
Muscat, Oman
05.2018 - 05.2019
- Scrutinize the operational activities and improve customer service and operational activities of the respective business area to increase the business
- Preparing monthly reports to the strategic management
- Managing KPIs' and regular follow up where necessary
- Break-Bulk and RORO Cargo brokering and fixing suitable vessels on behalf Shipping Lines
- Regular Sales Visits and discuss operational issues, concerns etc., to ensure that relationships are built and maintained on regular basis
- Handling all major Global Freight Forwarders
- Monitored competitor activity, utilizing insights to inform strategic planning and decision-making processes.
- Strengthened client relationships through regular communication and timely resolution of issues, leading to increased customer satisfaction.
- Led successful contract negotiations resulting in long-term agreements that benefited both parties involved strategically.
- Analyzed sales data to identify opportunities for expansion into new markets, driving increased market share.
- Improved profit margins through diligent expense monitoring and the implementation of cost-saving initiatives where appropriate.
- Increased sales revenue by developing and implementing effective marketing strategies for commercial products.
- Coordinated trade shows and other promotional events, showcasing company offerings effectively to prospective clients.
- Optimized supply chain management by establishing strong relationships with vendors, reducing lead times and inventory costs.
- Evaluated and improved sales processes, leading to a more streamlined approach that maximized revenue generation opportunities.
- Achieved growth targets by devising creative promotional campaigns designed to attract new clients while retaining existing customers.
- Managed budgets and financial reporting, ensuring accurate forecasting and cost control for optimal profitability.
- Negotiated contracts with suppliers, securing favorable terms that resulted in significant cost savings.
- Maintained an up-to-date understanding of industry trends and regulatory changes which informed strategic decision-making.
- Developed strong partnerships with key stakeholders, fostering collaboration to achieve shared goals.
- Collaborated with product development teams to ensure quality standards were met consistently across all product lines.
- Established a robust sales pipeline by cultivating leads through targeted prospecting efforts.
- Streamlined internal processes by identifying areas for improvement and implementing changes to increase efficiency.
- Negotiated contracts and product prices by collaborating with vendors and developers.
- Achieved sales goals and service targets by cultivating and securing new customer relationships.
- Increased sales volume and expanded product line to new retailers, warehouse clubs and natural food chains.
- Aligned company goals with customer outcomes and increased satisfaction by automating contact management systems.
- Increased profit margins by effectively controlling budget and overhead and optimizing product turns.
- Facilitated business by implementing practical networking techniques.
- Delivered recommendations to long-term accounts to promote brand awareness to key audience.
- Implemented systems and procedures to increase sales.
- Managed revenue models, process flows, operations support and customer engagement strategies.
- Managed accounts to retain existing relationships and grow share of business.
Operations Manager – Shipping
Gulf Agency Company (GAC Oman) L.L.C.
Muscat, Oman
03.2009 - 04.2018
- Business development and achieve operational and customer service excellence in tanker vessel calls at the oil terminals to ensure satisfaction of the customer and all concerned
- Handled and guided a team consisting one Assistant Manager and two Port Representatives
- Assess and identify new opportunities for growth in current and prospective markets
- Establish the company's goals and objectives with the business plan
- Make sure that the company has sufficient resources such as personnel, material, and equipment
- Developing key accounts for shipping business at Oman
- Assist and guide port and office operations staff in the effective execution of vessel operations and ensure staff are highly motivated in performing their duties
- Visit port officials monthly and discuss operational issues, concerns
- Responsible for collection of funds within agreed time frames
- Also, responsible for ensuring advance funds are received in full covering full port invoice for tanker callers
- Visit foreign principals/customers on a regular basis to ensure the continuity of their business
- Be proactive in customer services
- Prompt reporting to principals/customers and vessel masters as and when personal intervention is required to the satisfaction of all
- Scrutinize the operational activities and improve customer service and operational activities of the respective business area to increase the business
- Managing KPIs' and regular follow up where necessary.
- Implemented quality control systems that boosted overall product consistency and reliability.
- Developed robust contingency plans to ensure business continuity during unforeseen disruptions.
- Championed safety protocols to maintain a secure working environment, reducing workplace accidents significantly.
- Optimized supply chain operations through strategic vendor partnerships and efficient logistics planning.
- Achieved higher employee retention rates by fostering a positive work environment and providing opportunities for professional growth.
- Developed strong relationships with vendors, resulting in better pricing and improved service quality.
- Analyzed data trends to identify potential bottlenecks in operations workflow, implementing strategies to mitigate risks accordingly.
- Facilitated smooth collaboration between departments through clear communication channels.
- Managed budgets effectively, consistently delivering projects on-time and within financial constraints.
- Empowered employees to take ownership of their responsibilities, leading to increased accountability and improved performance outcomes.
- Conducted regular performance reviews, identifying areas for improvement and developing action plans to address them.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by establishing clear communication channels and addressing concerns promptly.
- Oversaw facility maintenance, ensuring optimal functionality of equipment and infrastructure at all times.
- Implemented process improvement to shape organizational culture, optimize procedures for higher efficiency and help company evolve and grow.
- Introduced new methods, practices, and systems to reduce turnaround time.
- Set, enforced, and optimized internal policies to maintain responsiveness to demands.
- Devised processes to boost long-term business success and increase profit levels.
- Developed and maintained relationships with external vendors and suppliers.
- Supervised operations staff and kept employees compliant with company policies and procedures.
- Increased profit by streamlining operations.
- Analyzed and reported on key performance metrics to senior management.
- Negotiated contracts with vendors and suppliers to obtain best pricing and terms.
- Developed systems and procedures to improve operational quality and team efficiency.
- Reduced operational risks while organizing data to forecast performance trends.
- Implemented business strategies, increasing revenue, and effectively targeting new markets.
- Monitored daily cash discrepancies, inventory shrinkage and drive-off.
- Trained and guided team members to maintain high productivity and performance metrics.
- Managed purchasing, sales, marketing and customer account operations efficiently.
- Reported issues to higher management with great detail.
- Supervised creation of exciting merchandise displays to catch attention of store customers.
- Scheduled employees for shifts, taking into account customer traffic and employee strengths.
- Tracked trends and suggested enhancements to both challenge and refine company's product offerings.
- Reduced budgetary expenditures by effectively negotiating contracts for more advantageous terms.
- Identified and qualified customer needs and negotiated and closed profitable projects with high success rate.
- Assisted in recruiting, hiring and training of team members.
- Tracked employee attendance and punctuality, addressing repeat problems quickly to prevent long-term habits.
- Reduced financial inconsistencies while assessing and verifying billing invoices and expense reports.
- Interacted well with customers to build connections and nurture relationships.
- Cultivated and strengthened lasting client relationships using strong issue resolution and dynamic communication skills.
Shipping Co-Ordinator – Shipping Operations
National Shipping (GAC) Abu Dhabi Ltd LLC
Abu Dhabi
01.2006 - 01.2009
- Communicate with principals / terminals / oil companies / port authorities
- Arrange advance payments of port charges to terminal operators / port authority for berthing of vessel
- Receive cargo documents from Section Manager and distribute them to D/O clerks, cargo supervisors / port departments
- Handling ship spares, cash advance, crew changes, crew medical etc., Update appropriate operational and customer supporting register and application.
- Collaborated with sales team members to ensure seamless integration between order processing and shipment coordination activities.
- Managed complex shipping schedules, prioritizing tasks based on urgency and importance to meet strict deadlines.
- Maintained up-to-date price lists to accurately calculate shipping, shortage and demurrage costs.
- Supported reporting, accounting and recordkeeping staff with accurate updates regarding shipment information.
- Worked effectively with shippers to resolve shipment issues, damaged materials and shortages.
- Communicated with carrier representatives, arranging for special deliveries and shipment receipts.
- Factored shipping procedures, rates and routes in making determinations on best shipping methods for materials.
- Processed required paperwork to expedite handling of shipped and received goods.
- Responded to customer inquiries and resolved complaints to establish trust and increase satisfaction.
- Negotiated shipping contracts and rates to establish budget friendly agreements.
- Prepared and maintained accurate records of shipments and deliveries to enable tracking history and acquire consistent information.
- Processed returns and updated accounts.
- Generated end-of-day reports covering shipments, productivity, and financial totals.
- Streamlined shipping processes by implementing efficient tracking systems and inventory management techniques.
- Established strong working relationships across departments, fostering cohesive and collaborative work environment.
- Assisted in budget preparation for shipping department, analyzing costs and identifying areas for improvement or saving opportunities.
- Maintained accurate documentation for all shipments, ensuring compliance with regulations and minimizing potential liabilities.
- Resolved shipment issues promptly by collaborating with internal teams and external partners to find effective solutions.
- Supported continuous improvement initiatives within organization by participating in process improvement projects related to logistics.
Accounts Executive
GAC Shipping Ltd - Sri Lanka
Colombo
01.2000 - 01.2006
- Maintaining Receivable & Payable Accounts
- Responsible for Bank Reconciliation, Ledger postings, Invoicing, Bank Payments etc., Financial & Statistic reporting to Management
- Preparing & sending Final Disbursement Accounts by using computer system
- Having good communication skills to deal with foreign Ship owners & Principals
- Debt Collections from foreign Shipping Debtors & preparing monthly Debtors & Creditors Statements.
- Managed budget preparation and forecasting processes, enabling accurate allocation of resources across departments.
- Implemented robust systems for tracking expenses, allowing for real-time visibility into spending patterns and facilitating better budget planning.
- Proactively identified areas for improvement within accounting department, implementing changes that led to increased productivity and accuracy.
- Enhanced revenue generation through diligent monitoring of account balances and timely follow-up on outstanding payments.
- Streamlined financial reporting for improved decision-making accuracy and efficiency with detailed analysis.
- Conducted thorough account reconciliations, promptly resolving any discrepancies or irregularities identified during process.
- Assisted in developing annual budgets aligned with strategic objectives, providing a solid roadmap for effective resource allocation throughout year.
- Negotiated favorable payment terms with vendors, resulting in significant cost savings without compromising quality or service levels.
- Participated in thedevelopment and implementation of financial policies and procedures that contributed to more efficient working environment.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to optimize financial performance by identifying cost-saving opportunities.
- Increased client satisfaction by effectively managing accounts receivable and payable processes.
- Established beneficial partnerships with suppliers through effective vendor management strategies promoting mutual success.
- Coordinated month-end closing activities to ensure timely completion of financial statements for executive review and decision-making purposes.
- Reduced financial discrepancies by implementing stringent internal controls and audits to ensure accurate recordkeeping.
- Evaluated credit risks associated with new customers, safeguarding the company''s assets while supporting business expansion efforts.
- Improved cash flow management, ensuring prompt invoicing and collection procedures to minimize delinquencies.
- Spearheaded process improvements for increased efficiency in financial operations, reducing operating costs while maintaining high-quality standards.
- Maintained strong understanding of industry trends and regulatory changes impacting accounting practices to ensure ongoing compliance.
- Developed strong relationships with key clients, fostering trust and loyalty to facilitate long-term business growth.
- Provided comprehensive support during external audits by producing accurate documentation that streamlined audit process.
- Analyzed accounts for delinquencies and other ongoing issues.
- Delivered engaging sales presentations to new clients, explaining technical information in simplified language to promote features and increase client base.
- Developed strategic relationships with key suppliers and clients to foster profitable business initiatives.
- Reached out to customers to offer range of services and products in order to drive sales growth.
- Leveraged industry trends and competitive analysis to improve customer relationship building.
- Built strategic relationships with key account personnel.
- Worked with other departments to deliver solutions according to schedule and per customer requirements.
- Negotiated prices, terms of sales and service agreements.
- Consulted with businesses to supply accurate product and service information.
- Gained customer trust and confidence by demonstrating compelling, persuasive and composed professional demeanor.
- Fostered lasting relationships with customers through effective communication and quick response, resulting in long-term loyalty and expanded client base.
- Increased sales with execution of full sales cycle processing from initial lead processing through conversion and closing.
- Recorded accurate and efficient records in customer database.
Education
Doctor in Business Administration - Business Administration And Management
Manipal GlobalNxt University
Malaysia 01.2022 - 05.2025
Master of Business Administration -
Postgraduate Institute of Management - University of Sri Jayewardenepura
Sri Lanka 01.2017 - 05.2019
Foundation Exam -
Institute of Chartered Accountants - Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka 01.1999 - 05.2002
General certificate of Ordinary and Advance examinations - General Studies
Primary And High School Sri Lanka
Sri LankaSkills
Written Communication
Decision Making
Interpersonal Communication
Teamwork
Management
Leadership
Problem-solving
Task Delegation
Cost Reduction
Operations Management
Product and service knowledge
Employee Performance Evaluations
Negotiation
Workload Management
Cost Control
Customer Relationship Management (CRM)
Business Development
Sales Reporting
Compliance understanding
Staff Management
Succession Planning
Orientation and training
Budgeting and finance
Sales Growth
Team motivation
Financial Management
Staff Supervision
Performance reviewing
Consulting
Marketing knowledge
Sales Strategies
Strategic Planning
Business Administration
Corporate Social Responsibility
Budget Management
Performance Evaluation
Training and Development
Budget Administration
Interpersonal Skills
Task Prioritization
Multitasking Abilities
Analytical Skills
Active Listening
Business Planning
Problem-solving aptitude
Computer Skills
Adaptability
Written Communication
Affiliations
- The Institute of Chartered Professional Managers of Sri Lanka, FCPM #00353, 06/01/20
- The Institute of Chartered Logistics and Transportation of Sri Lanka, CMILT #18478, 07/01/20
Summary Of Experience
Management Professional in Shipping, Marine, and Liner Services for more than twenty-four years (2000 - 2024) in international shipping industry with extensive knowledge about Shipping Operations, commercial activities and business development.
Business Clients Visit
Hong Kong and China during 2016
Personal Information
- Age: 45
- Date of Birth: 11/29/78
- Gender: Male
- Marital Status: Married with one kid
Non Related Referees
Will be provided on request.
Extracurricular Activities
Member of the Mclarens Sports Club Basketball Team. Inter Company Basketball Tournament Organized by Mclarens Sports Club in March 2002 - Champions.
Training
- Certificate of Shipping agency operations
- Business
- Personal development/time management courses conducted by GAC Academy in Dubai
Accomplishments
- Supervised team of six staff members.
- Achieved highest number of crude oil vessel handling from 2010-2018 through effectively helping with business development
- Achieved highest number of exports volume from 2020-2923 through effectively helping with sales promotions and business development.
- Supervised team of two staff members.
Interests
Writing research papers in the field of shipping and maritime (in progress)
Timeline
Doctor in Business Administration - Business Administration And Management
Manipal GlobalNxt University
01.2022 - 05.2025
Assistant Manager – Commercial
Emirates Shipping Container Line DMDEST
05.2019 - Current
Commercial Manager –Operations for Break-Bulk and RORO Cargo
Gulf Agency Company (Oman) L.L.C.
05.2018 - 05.2019
Master of Business Administration -
Postgraduate Institute of Management - University of Sri Jayewardenepura
01.2017 - 05.2019
Operations Manager – Shipping
Gulf Agency Company (GAC Oman) L.L.C.
03.2009 - 04.2018
Shipping Co-Ordinator – Shipping Operations
National Shipping (GAC) Abu Dhabi Ltd LLC
01.2006 - 01.2009
Accounts Executive
GAC Shipping Ltd - Sri Lanka
01.2000 - 01.2006
Foundation Exam -
Institute of Chartered Accountants - Sri Lanka
01.1999 - 05.2002
General certificate of Ordinary and Advance examinations - General Studies
Primary And High School Sri Lanka