HNB PLC has been recognized among the Top 10 Best Employers of 2025 at the inaugural EFC National Best Employer Awards. This distinction is regarded as a credible national benchmark for employer excellence and assess organizations across governance, leadership, people practices, employee wellbeing, learning, performance management, and workplace culture.

This recognition highlights the strength of HNB’s Human Capital strategy, which has shifted from a traditional Human Resources approach to a structured model that positions employees as a core organizational asset. Over recent years, the Bank has implemented initiatives to enhance clarity, accountability, and consistency across roles, while strengthening the overall employee experience.

Commenting on this, HNB, Senior Vice President / Chief Human Resource Officer, K. Indravasan said, “Being recognized among the Top 10 Best Employers nationally is a meaningful affirmation of the work we do every day. It shows the standards we set for governance and people practices and signals to current and future talent that HNB is a place where their contribution is valued and their growth is supported. This recognition motivates us to continue strengthening our workplace culture and ensure that every employee has the tools and support to succeed. It also strengthens our commitment to creating an environment where talent is nurtured and recognized for its impact on the organization.”

HNB undertook a strategic Human Capital transformation project with external consultants, reviewing the organizational structure, standardizing job grades and bands, and evaluating compensation and benefits. This initiative sought to create a homogeneous environment across verticals, ensuring fairness and transparency in role expectations and rewards. The Bank has also expanded its performance-based culture, with the proportion of staff on performance-linked metrics increasing from 18%, representing Management and above grades to 41% by including Executive and Senior Executive grades.

“Over the last two to three years, we have focused on turning our people-first philosophy into everyday practice. We have built clearer structures, practical support systems, and learning opportunities that allow our employees to perform with confidence and grow in their careers. What has changed is the consistency with which we apply these practices across all levels of the Bank, making sure that every individual feels valued, supported, and part of the HATNA family.” HNB, Vice President, Human Capital Strategy, Roshantha Jayatunge noted.

Employee wellbeing is a key pillar of HNB’s Human Capital strategy. The Bank operates the HNB Wellness Centre and the Mobile Medical Service, which bring healthcare access across the branch network. Complementary initiatives include stress management programs, emotional intelligence development, women’s health clinics, and retirement preparation programs. HNB provides industry-leading insurance coverage for employees, extending the same benefits to family members. These efforts support a holistic wellbeing framework that balances physical, mental, and emotional health.

Learning and development are central to HNB’s approach. The Bank offers structured training programs and career development pathways that enable employees to progress from associate roles into management positions. Engagement is strengthened through structured recognition initiatives, internal competitions, awards for customer experience, sales, and learning achievements, as well as activities such as Best speaker contests and team quizzes.

The Bank’s reputation for excellence is supported by consistent performance in the market. HNB has been recognized as the Best Retail Bank in Sri Lanka for 14 consecutive years, and has received accolades such as The Banker awards for Best Bank in Sri Lanka 2025, Best Corporate Citizen and Superbrand status. EFC National Best Employer Awards, recognizes HNB as one of only two banks to be among the Top 10 Best Employer for 2025.

HNB remains committed to strengthening Human Capital practices with the same discipline applied to its business strategy. The Bank continues to invest in people, workplace culture, and leadership capability to sustain excellence, drive long-term performance, and maintain its position as one of Sri Lanka’s most trusted and progressive employers.

HNB’s MD/CEO Damith Pallewatte, together with the COO Sanjay Wijemanne and Senior Vice President /Chief Human Resource Officer, Mr. K. Indravasan pictured with the awards

Image Caption - As the Chief Guest, India’s High Commissioner, H.E. Santosh Jha, presents the award to the HNB’s MD/CEO Damith Pallewatte, while International Labour Organization (ILO)- Country Director for Sri Lanka and the Maldives, Ms. Joni Simpson, presents the award to the HNB’s COO Sanjay Wijemanne, who receives the honor on behalf of the organization, recognizing Among the Top 10 Best Employers of 2025 at the EFC National Best Employer Awards