Dilhan Fernando, appointed Adjunct Professor of Sustainability at Edith Cowan University’s School of Business and Law, Australia

Above: From left to right: Amrit M J Fernando, Assoc. Prof. Madeleine Ogilvie, Prof. Tim Bentley, Executive Dean, School of Business and Law Prof. Maryam Omari, Prof. Peter Galvin, Dilhan C. Fernando, Assoc. Prof. Marie Ryan, Assoc. Prof Claire Lambert, Mr. Arron Jackson, Prof. Gabriel Eweje, Snr. Deputy Vice-Chancellor Prof. Arshad Omari.

CEO and Chairperson of global tea brand Dilmah, Dilhan Fernando has been appointed as an Adjunct Professor of Practice in Sustainability at Edith Cowan University’s (ECU’s) School of Business and Law (SBL).

As Chairperson of Dilmah Ceylon Tea Company plc., Dilmah Ceylon Cinnamon Company and Kahawatte Plantations plc., Mr Fernando strives to drive innovation, sustainability and fresh consumer perspectives of the uniqueness of Sri Lankan produce, the company said in a media release.

As managing Trustee of the MJF Foundation and Director of Dilmah Conservation, his role extends to using a minimum of 15% of the pre-tax profits from Dilmah & MJF Group companies to benefit people and nature.

Mr. Fernando played a key role in establishing Dilmah Conservation in 2007 and building on its successes with the creation of Biodiversity Sri Lanka. This organisation, recognised as Sri Lanka’s leading body for biodiversity and conservation, includes over 80 major corporate members and government representatives.

ECU’s Executive Dean for the School of Business and Law Professor Maryam Omari said Mr. Fernando’s appointment was an exciting opportunity for SBL students and the wider Perth community.

“We are deeply honoured to welcome Dilhan C. Fernando to our School. His profound commitment to ethical business practices and sustainability is truly inspiring. Having Dilhan share his expertise and philosophy with our students will not only enrich their educational experience but also prepare them to become leaders who prioritise integrity and social responsibility in their careers."

“We are excited to work with Mr Fernando to inspire a brighter future where businesses are proactive in their societal impact and social responsibility,” Professor Omari said.