Shell Gas Lanka’s Netherlands parent company, which is selling out its 51 % stake, has sent an expatriate to replace the Sri Lankan head who has quit the company.
Dr Mahesha Ranasoma, Country Chairman/Managing Director said he was quitting this week for personal reasons and taking up an appointment with Hayleys unit, Dipped Products Ltd as Executive Director from August 1.
“My leaving has nothing to do with the proposed sale of the Shell (Netherlands) stake. I took up this appointment in October 2009 and turned around the company,” Dr Ranasoma, the first Sri Lankan head of Shell Colombo, said on Wednesday.
The new Managing Director Walter Sanchez has arrived and assumed office on Friday. Dr Ranasoma said negotiations were underway with the government for the sale of the shares. The government, which has a 51 % stake, is keen to take total control of the company, an issue that has drawn criticism from Laugfs, the other gas industry player. Laugfs says the government should stay out of business.
Dr Ranasoma said that once Shell sells its stake and it could be to some other party if discussions with the government fails, Shell will exit the country. |
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