Anil Weerasooriya

Dedicated and results-oriented engineering professional with a robust 19-year track record in the dynamic intersection of manufacturing, engineering, and the food industry. A seasoned expert with a passion for driving operational excellence and innovation, I have consistently demonstrated my commitment to delivering high-quality solutions. My extensive experience encompasses diverse roles, allowing me to cultivate a unique blend of technical proficiency, leadership acumen, and industry-specific knowledge.

Key Attributes:

Engineering Expertise: Equipped with a comprehensive understanding of engineering principles, I have successfully navigated the complexities of various manufacturing processes, ensuring optimal performance and efficiency.

Industry Versatility: Over nearly two decades, I have contributed significantly to the food industry, bringing a deep understanding of its unique challenges and opportunities. My ability to integrate engineering solutions with the intricacies of food production sets me apart.

Dedication and Work Ethic: Known for my unwavering dedication, hard work, and industrious approach, I thrive in fast-paced environments. My commitment to excellence is reflected in a consistent history of delivering results and overcoming challenges.

Professional Achievements:

Strategic Leadership: I have led cross-functional teams in implementing strategic initiatives, resulting in improved processes, cost savings, and heightened operational efficiency.

Innovation and Problem-Solving: Adept at identifying opportunities for innovation, I have spearheaded initiatives to address operational challenges, driving continuous improvement and fostering a culture of problem-solving.

Career Objective:

Seeking a challenging role that leverages my extensive background in manufacturing, engineering, and the food industry. Eager to contribute my skills and expertise to drive organizational success and uphold a commitment to excellence.

Current Position:

Wood Engineering Technology (WET), Aug 2023 - Present Site Manager

As the Site Manager at WET, a pioneering manufacturer of engineered wood products, I lead operations at the Gisborne facility. WET is renowned for its innovative Optimized Engineered Lumber (OEL), revolutionizing the structural wood product industry. My role involves strategic planning, optimizing day-to-day operations, and ensuring the facility surpasses operational and quality KPIs. I focus on enhancing production capabilities, managing resources, and aligning production with customer demand, all while maintaining a commitment to health, safety, and sustainability.

Previous Positions:

Coca-Cola Beverages Sri Lanka, Colombo, Sri Lanka, March 2016 - 2023 Engineering Manager (March 2016 - October 2021) | Head of Manufacturing Excellence (November 2021 - July 2023)

At CCBSL, a subsidiary of The Coca-Cola Company, I held key roles in engineering and manufacturing excellence. As the Engineering Manager, I oversaw maintenance and executed projects. Later, as the Head of Manufacturing Excellence, I drove initiatives to improve productivity, achieve substantial sales growth, and deliver cost-saving projects. My responsibilities included managing production plans, ensuring quality standards, and leading teams in achieving business targets.

Unilever Sri Lanka, Colombo, Sri Lanka, April 2008 - March 2016 Plant Engineer (Utility) | Projects and Premises Engineer

At Unilever, I played integral roles in utility plant operations and project management. As Plant Engineer, I maintained utility plants 24/7, managed budgets, and implemented sustainable initiatives. In the role of Projects and Premises Engineer, I led projects, maintenance, and premises activities for both Grandpas and Horana sites. Notable achievements include successfully completing the Fuel Switching Initiative and winning the National Occupational Safety & Health Excellence Award.

MAS Holdings, Colombo, Sri Lanka, August 2003 - March 2008 Executive-Maintenance Engineer

As an Executive-Maintenance Engineer at MAS Holdings, the largest apparel manufacturer in South Asia, I was responsible for driving maintenance operations. I ensured machinery readiness for customer orders, managed production and utility machinery, and played a key role in expanding production facilities. Notable achievements include contributing to the expansion of the Linea Intimo production facility and implementing continuous improvement measures.

Key Skills and Achievements:

• Demonstrated leadership in achieving sales growth and operational excellence.
• Proven track record in project management, cost savings, and sustainability initiatives.
• Expertise in driving manufacturing and engineering operations, ensuring compliance with quality standards.
• Strategic planning for production optimization, resource management, and cost control.
• Extensive experience in managing teams, implementing safety measures, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

This career summary showcases a comprehensive overview of your professional journey, highlighting key achievements and expertise in manufacturing, engineering, and project management.

University of Peradeniya, Kandy, Sri Lanka

Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) Engineering (NZQA level 7, Green list qualified)

Institute of Management, Colombo Sri Lanka, MBA in Management

BIG Coca-Cola Leadership Essentials, Accelerate Program 2022

Columbia Business School Certification,  Leadership, People, Teams, and Organization

 University of Maryland, Robert H Smith Business School, P101 Leadership Fundamentals

Unilever Sri Lanka, Certificate course, Dupont Behavioural Safety-(DuPont) Program