In every industry, progress is driven by people who have passion and a clear sense of purpose. These individuals are the key drivers of lasting change, demonstrating resilience and creativity when faced with uncertainty. They lead their teams effectively during difficult times by reminding them of the larger vision and encouraging persistence and resourcefulness. By fostering curiosity and dedication, such leaders create environments where new ideas can grow and teamwork produces practical solutions, helping organizations remain competitive in a fast-changing world.
Vipulesh Thiyagarajah is a notable example of such a leader. Known for his ability to hold multiple important roles, he brings valuable insight and influence to each organization he works with. As the Chief Strategy Officer at Taian Lanka Steel, he guides the company’s growth with an emphasis on sustainability and innovation. His position as a Director on the Board of Getwin Group of Companies highlights his skill in strategic management and governance across different industries.
Additionally, as a Member of the Trade Facilitation Committee at the International Chamber of Commerce, Vipulesh contributes his expertise to help shape industry standards and practices. Through his clear vision, commitment, and collaborative style, he strengthens the organizations he serves and inspires those around him to strive for excellence and adaptability in a rapidly evolving business environment.
Leading Change Across Business and Trade
Vipulesh Thiyagarajah’s professional journey demonstrates the power of combining strategic vision with an entrepreneurial spirit. His entry into the steel industry was a deliberate choice driven by a desire to modernize traditional sectors through innovation. With a strong academic background in economics and management from UCLA, he understood early the value of applying a modern approach to core industries. In June 2023, he took on the role of Chief Strategy Officer at Taian Lanka Steel, where he leads company-wide transformation. His work goes beyond strategy, involving close collaboration with human resources and quality control teams to build a culture of excellence and market leadership.
At the same time, Vipulesh Thiyagarajah has played a key role at the Getwin Group of Companies and quickly moving into strategic leadership. As Executive Director and Co-Founder, he has driven the growth of multiple ventures, including Getwin Agro, Getwin Fertilizer, and Getwin Hotels & Resorts. His hands-on approach covers every aspect of business development, from land acquisition and supply chain planning to product launches and distribution. Vipulesh’s leadership is marked by a strong commitment to sustainable development, viewing business as a way to contribute positively to both the economy and society, not just to generate profit.
This purpose-driven leadership philosophy is also evident in his role as a Member of the Trade Facilitation Committee at the International Chamber of Commerce. Drawing on his cross-industry experience, Vipulesh helps shape trade policies that promote easier and more efficient international commerce. Through this position, he supports broader industry progress by balancing business expertise with a responsibility toward economic growth and organizational excellence.
Transforming Business with Strategy and Innovation
Vipulesh’s leadership gives Taian Lanka Steel and the Getwin Group a strong competitive advantage through transformative modernization and strategic oversight. At Taian Lanka Steel, he has driven rapid digital transformation by implementing advanced systems and collaborative tools. This shift—from inventory management to data governance—provides real-time insights that improve decision-making and speed up responses to market changes.
The company also focuses on talent development and operational agility to meet evolving market demands. Using business intelligence, Taian Lanka Steel quickly identifies trends and launches new products that capture market share. A strong focus on efficiency has reduced costs and increased lead generation, reflecting Vipulesh’s commitment to optimizing all business areas.
At the Getwin Group, Vipulesh Thiyagarajah takes a hands-on role and financial planning to align ventures with the group’s long-term goals. The Getwin Fertilizer project benefits from full control over plant setup, supply chain, production, and market entry to ensure quality and efficiency. In hospitality, Getwin Hotels & Resorts creates luxury eco-tourism experiences through careful planning and collaboration with architects and regulators.
Overall, Vipulesh combines strategic, financial, and operational management to drive technological progress at Taian Lanka Steel and integrated growth at Getwin, building strong, connected businesses ready for future challenges.
Overcoming Obstacles and Driving Growth
Under Vipulesh’s strategic leadership, both Taian Lanka Steel and the Getwin Group of Companies have turned challenges into opportunities for growth and innovation. His approach emphasizes adaptability, innovation, and hands-on problem-solving to ensure resilience in competitive and changing markets.
At Taian Lanka Steel, Vipulesh Thiyagarajah faced common challenges in the APAC industrial sector, including outdated operational practices and resistance to digital transformation. To overcome these, the company:
- Invested in extensive training programs to prepare employees for new digital tools, focusing on long-term benefits for both individuals and the organization.
- Promoted a data-driven culture by openly sharing results from business intelligence initiatives, improving production planning, cost control, and demand forecasting. This transparency helped build trust and acceptance of new systems.
In response to a saturated market and increasing competition, Taian Lanka Steel further strengthened its position through:
- Product diversification, launching new ranges guided by market insights, allowing rapid market share growth.
- Aggressive rebranding and digital marketing efforts that expanded customer reach and enhanced the company’s presence.
These combined efforts transformed initial obstacles into sustainable momentum for growth and innovation, balancing technology investments with human capital development.
At the Getwin Group, operating across multiple sectors presented additional challenges, all managed under Vipulesh’s leadership:
- In Getwin Agro, a shift from less profitable vegetable farming to tea estate development unlocked greater market potential after careful replanning and investment.
- Labor relations at Getwin Agro and the fertilizer plant were improved through fair practices and open communication, ensuring smooth operations and high employee morale.
- Getwin Fertilizer strengthened its supply chain by securing multiple supply deals, creating a resilient and cost-effective procurement system.
- For Getwin Hotels & Resorts, overcoming regulatory and funding challenges involved intensive government lobbying and preparing detailed investor materials to secure approvals and financing.
In all these ventures, Vipulesh’s focus on thorough due diligence, agile decision-making, and direct leadership has enabled the companies to navigate uncertainty successfully. His guidance has built stronger, more flexible businesses poised for continued success in Sri Lanka’s evolving market.
Innovating and Expanding Through Strategic Alliances
Taian Lanka Steel: Strategic Alliances for Innovation & Expansion
Vipulesh Thiyagarajah and his team at Taian Lanka Steel are actively exploring strategic alliances to advance technological integration, enter new markets, and enhance sustainability. These collaborations are intended to boost automation in manufacturing, expand the company’s geographic footprint, and promote eco-friendly solutions—solidifying Taian Lanka Steel’s position as a leader in Sri Lanka’s steel sector.
| Focus Area | Examples/Intent | Strategic Purpose |
| Technological Integration | Partnerships with robotics or advanced logistics firms | Enhance manufacturing automation, supply chain digitalization |
| Geographic Expansion | Joint ventures in fast-growing APAC markets (undisclosed partners) | Access high-demand regions for steel & infrastructure |
| Sustainable Solutions | Collaborations for greener manufacturing & eco-friendly lines | Advance sustainability and meet global environmental goals |
Getwin Group: Building a Synergistic and Sustainable Ecosystem
For the Getwin Group, Vipulesh directs efforts toward expanding existing successes and forming new synergies. The group targets advanced agri-tech, new market distribution networks, and powerful international collaborations—especially in hospitality and eco-tourism, underlining their commitment to long-term, diversified growth.
| Getwin Venture | Planned Partnership/Joint Venture Focus | Strategic Benefit |
| Getwin Agro | Partnerships for advanced agricultural technology (e.g., precision farming) | Improved yields, sustainable farming practices |
| Getwin Fertilizer | Regional distribution network joint ventures | Market expansion, increased product reach |
| Getwin Hotels & Resorts | Partnerships with global eco-tourism operators; adventure park investment agreements | Global branding, premium clientele, attraction growth |
| Group-wide | Explore synergies leveraging infrastructure and expertise across ventures | Sustainable and diversified growth |
These partnership pursuits reinforce Vipulesh Thiyagarajah’s dedication to collaborative innovation and sustainable value creation, keeping both Taian Lanka Steel and the Getwin Group agile, competitive, and future-ready.
Smart Strategies for Success in the APAC Region
Under Vipulesh’s leadership, Taian Lanka Steel and the Getwin Group actively adapt to the rapidly changing APAC business environment shaped by technology, geopolitics, and sustainability demands.
At Taian Lanka Steel, Vipulesh focuses on expanding production capacity and improving supply chain efficiency to meet growing infrastructure needs. The company maintains diverse sourcing to navigate complex trade agreements and geopolitical challenges. Green manufacturing is a key priority, with investments in cleaner technologies and sustainable practices to comply with regulations and customer expectations.
To address talent shortages and digital skill gaps, the company emphasizes workforce development through digital HR platforms and continuous training. Data-driven forecasting helps manage market volatility and ensures resilience. This approach of agility, technology adoption, and continuous improvement enables Taian Lanka Steel to thrive amid regional changes.
The Getwin Group applies a similar adaptive strategy across its businesses. Getwin Agro has shifted to high-value crops like tea, using advanced farming and strong labor management. Getwin Fertilizer expands local production and secures supply chains. The group’s hospitality ventures include eco-friendly projects such as a luxury eco-hotel and adventure park, aligned with evolving travel trends.
Digitalization supports decision-making across the group, while thorough due diligence and financial planning manage risks and align investments with market shifts. Vipulesh’s leadership drives continuous innovation, positioning both companies for success in APAC’s dynamic market.
Growth Highlights From Taian Lanka Steel & Getwin Group
Under Vipulesh Thiyagarajah’s leadership, both Taian Lanka Steel and the Getwin Group of Companies have reached important milestones that have driven their ambitious growth and strengthened their market positions. His ability to lead transformation across diverse businesses reflects a dynamic, results-oriented approach and a clear long-term vision.
Building a Stronger Taian Lanka Steel: Milestones and Achievements
At Taian Lanka Steel, several strategic initiatives have propelled the company toward faster growth and greater industry recognition. A major achievement was the company’s award as Asia’s Best Business Leaders 2024 by Trade Flock Magazine, reflecting its overall transformation. Key milestones include:
- Sales and Marketing Restructuring: Vipulesh Thiyagarajah led a complete revamp of sales and marketing strategies, resulting in significant sales growth, cost reductions, and increased lead generation. This confirmed the success of the new strategic direction.
- New Product Launch: The introduction of a new product range allowed the company to quickly capture market share, demonstrating agility in meeting evolving customer demands.
- Digital Integration: Advanced ERP systems and collaborative platforms improved internal reporting, inventory management, and data governance, creating a strong foundation for scalable growth.
- Diversity and Inclusion Program: Vipulesh introduced programs to promote diversity and advance women into management roles, fostering an innovative and inclusive workplace culture.
These efforts transformed Taian Lanka Steel into a more competitive, flexible, and forward-thinking company, firmly establishing it as a sector leader.
Growing the Getwin Group: Milestones and Success Stories
A similar pattern of achievement defines Vipulesh’s work at the Getwin Group of Companies. Each venture has contributed to the group’s rapid growth and strategic flexibility:
- Getwin Agro: Transitioning from traditional vegetable farming to managing a large tea estate opened new growth opportunities.
- Getwin Fertilizer: Building and equipping a modern fertilizer plant, securing supply agreements, and reaching operational readiness strengthened the company’s competitive position.
- Getwin Hotels & Resorts: Securing funding and successfully navigating government approvals enabled the development of a luxury eco-tourism project.
- Getwin Events & Entertainment: Organizing a major concert generated significant sponsorship revenue and demonstrated the group’s capability in large-scale event management.
Together, these milestones show how the Getwin Group has evolved from an investment pool into a collection of thriving, operational businesses.
Vipulesh Thiyagarajah’s consistent focus on innovation, talent development, and strong strategy continues to drive impressive growth and transformation across all the companies he leads.
Taian Lanka Steel Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
- Revenue Growth & Market Share: Track overall growth and new product market acceptance.
- Profitability Ratios: Measure efficiency and cost management.
- Operational Expenses: Monitor and maintain cost efficiency.
- Lead-to-Conversion Rate: Assess effectiveness in converting leads to customers.
- Customer Acquisition & Lifetime Value: Evaluate long-term marketing and sales impact.
- Employee Productivity & Engagement: Ensure workforce satisfaction and efficiency.
- Supply Chain Efficiency: Optimize costs and customer satisfaction.
- ROI of Strategic Initiatives: Measure returns on projects like product launches and technology adoption.
- Diversity & Inclusion: Track advancement of women and underrepresented groups in leadership.
Building Modern Companies with Technology and Learning
Vipulesh Thiyagarajah’s leadership at Taian Lanka Steel and the Getwin Group focuses on staying ahead of innovation and technology trends, even in traditional and diverse industries. His strategy emphasizes targeted investments, continuous learning, and agile adoption to keep both organizations adaptable, relevant, and constantly improving.
At Taian Lanka Steel, innovation is central to the company’s operations. Significant investment in research and development and market intelligence helps the company monitor trends in steel and related sectors such as construction and automotive. The integration of advanced technologies—like ERP systems, KPI dashboards, digital collaboration tools, and Quality Management Systems—has improved reporting, operational efficiency, and product quality.
Understanding that technology’s impact depends on skilled employees, Taian Lanka prioritizes continuous training and skill development through workshops and learning sessions. The company also engages actively in industry forums and collaborates with international experts, gaining insights beyond the steel industry. Vipulesh’s role with the International Chamber of Commerce further supports the company’s awareness of global trade and regulatory changes. The use of pilot programs ensures that new technologies are tested and refined before full implementation, making innovation practical and scalable.
The Getwin Group applies a similarly tailored approach to innovation across its varied businesses. In agriculture, Getwin Agro adopts sustainable and precision farming technologies to improve efficiency. Getwin Fertilizer invests in modern machinery and innovative products to meet changing market needs. In hospitality and entertainment, the group focuses on customer experience, working with global architects and updating offerings based on market research. Digital transformation supports accurate financial planning, logistics, and flexible operations. The group also conducts market testing before product launches and brings in specialized talent and advisors to enhance expertise.
Building Stronger Businesses for a Changing Future
Looking ahead to 2025 and beyond, Vipulesh Thiyagarajah demonstrates forward-thinking leadership as he guides Taian Lanka Steel and the Getwin Group of Companies toward ambitious growth. His focus combines innovation, sustainable development, and building strong organizations prepared for changing markets.
At Taian Lanka Steel, Vipulesh aims to build on recent successes by pursuing sustainable market expansion. This approach targets profitable growth in both existing and new regional markets. A key priority is advancing automation in manufacturing to increase productivity, lower costs, and enhance workplace safety. Recognizing the importance of people, he emphasizes talent development, diversity, and inclusion, along with leadership training and succession planning to prepare the company for future challenges.
Vipulesh Thiyagarajah also seeks to deepen customer relationships by turning traditional interactions into collaborative partnerships that deliver shared value. He is particularly interested in integrating AI and machine learning for improved demand forecasting and production planning, which will boost operational efficiency. Progress in diversity initiatives, especially promoting women to leadership roles, remains a personal and professional priority.
For the Getwin Group, Vipulesh focuses on strategic growth across all sectors. The flagship project is the Getwin Hotels & Resorts luxury eco-hotel, with efforts underway to secure funding and accelerate its launch. Expansion plans include increasing fertilizer production and distribution, targeting international markets, and diversifying agriculture through sustainable initiatives like coconut mega farms.
He also pursues strategic acquisitions and investments to strengthen existing businesses and open new revenue opportunities. Vipulesh sees sustainable technologies as essential across all ventures, from eco-friendly hospitality to responsible manufacturing, viewing environmental responsibility as a key to long-term success.
Bridging Business Success with Creative Expression
Vipulesh Thiyagarajah and Taian Lanka Steel have received several notable recognitions and media features that highlight their impact and leadership.
- One key recognition is being named among Asia’s Best Business Leaders 2024 by Trade Flock Magazine. This award celebrated the enterprise-wide transformation at Taian Lanka Steel and Vipulesh’s role as a top leader in the region.
- Vipulesh’s debut novel, Sonder: An Existential Manifesto, was featured in The Sunday Observer Magazine, where it was praised for its intellectual depth and originality. Further details regarding this novel are available here.
- He also maintains a strong presence as a writer through his Substack blog and newsletter, where he publishes weekly essays on philosophy, politics, the economy, and culture. These writings have attracted a broad readership and serve as a platform for his public thoughts and analyses.
- Additionally, Vipulesh is the creator of the ‘Circa-Z’ podcast, which offers interviews and AI-narrated versions of his blog content. The podcast has gained regional popularity, reaching top positions on major platforms like Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
These media platforms reflect Vipulesh’s ongoing engagement with wider societal and philosophical issues beyond his business leadership, forming an important part of his personal and professional brand.
Visionary Leadership for Growth and Community Impact
Vipulesh’s leadership is defined by a clear, forward-looking vision that guides his work at both Taian Lanka Steel and the Getwin Group. Central to his approach is the belief in driving transformative growth, not just for business success, but for the benefit of industries and communities.
As Chief Strategy Officer at Taian Lanka Steel, Vipulesh Thiyagarajah focuses on strategic innovation and operational excellence while valuing human capital. He promotes the use of data and technology to improve decision-making, streamline processes, and foster a culture of continuous improvement. His efforts support Taian Lanka Steel’s goal to become a regional leader in the APAC steel industry. Vipulesh’s vision goes beyond expanding market share; he aims for sustainable, technology-driven growth based on strong quality management and a customer-focused, agile organization. He strives for the company to set new standards in innovation, efficiency, and responsible business practices.
At the Getwin Group of Companies, Vipulesh applies a similar purpose-driven energy. He leads the development of a diverse portfolio of sustainable businesses that leverage Sri Lanka’s strengths and meet important market needs. From agriculture and manufacturing to hospitality, he ensures the group grows through diversification and risk management. Each venture, including Getwin Agro, Getwin Fertilizer, and Getwin Hotels & Resorts, is designed to create real value for local communities and promote sustainable development.
Vipulesh’s leadership philosophy integrates innovation, sustainability, and social responsibility. Whether advancing traditional sectors like tea or modernizing steel manufacturing, he shows that progress and profitability can coexist with positive social impact. His purpose-driven vision helps build lasting businesses that contribute to both their industries and society, setting high standards for ethical and innovative leadership in Sri Lanka and beyond.
Open Letter to the Next Generation of Industry Leaders
To the upcoming professionals, entrepreneurs, and future leaders in steel and heavy manufacturing,
I want to share a few core principles that have guided me and can help you thrive in these foundational industries.
First, embrace transformation—especially digital. Traditional industries are far from stagnant; they are full of opportunities for innovation. Learn data analytics, business intelligence, and digital tools. This will not only improve efficiency but also open new markets and create lasting competitive advantages.
Second, develop a multidisciplinary mindset. My background isn’t strictly, yet understanding strategy, finance, and human capital has been crucial. Today’s challenges require crossing boundaries and connecting diverse knowledge. Stay curious, keep learning, and see problems from multiple perspectives. As I explore in my book Sonder, thinking beyond immediate contexts is a powerful skill.
Third, prioritize purpose over profit. Financial success matters, but true fulfillment comes from meaningful work—improving conditions, promoting sustainability, or contributing to national development. Viktor Frankl reminds us that finding meaning is essential, even in difficult times.
Fourth, master metacognition and emotional intelligence. Reflect on your thinking, recognize biases, and manage emotions—especially under pressure. Happiness is a journey, not a destination. Focus on the process, not just the goal.
Finally, build strong, character-based relationships. Success is rarely solo. Surround yourself with those who challenge and support you. strong relationships are vital for a long, healthy, and happy life.
The world is changing rapidly. Your role is not just to adapt but to reimagine and improve it. Be bold, analytical, and humane. Combine your skills with self-awareness and a commitment to shared progress. The future depends on you.
— Vipulesh Thiyagarajah
5 Key Takeaways from Vipulesh’s Strategic Leadership
- Visionary Leader in Diverse Industries: Vipulesh excels at leading various strategic industries, from steel manufacturing to hospitality and agriculture. He uses his sharp insights to drive growth and innovation in all his ventures.
- Focus on Modernization and Technology: He champions the integration of advanced technology and digital tools, like ERP systems and data analytics, to boost efficiency, improve decision-making, and keep his companies competitive.
- Commitment to Sustainable and Purpose-Driven Growth: Vipulesh believes in building businesses that not only generate profit but also contribute positively to society and the environment. This is evident in his focus on sustainable practices and eco-tourism.
- Resilience and Adaptability in Challenges: He has a proven track record of turning obstacles into opportunities. His strategic approach, which emphasizes adaptability and hands-on problem-solving, helps his companies thrive even in challenging markets.
- Beyond Business: A Holistic Approach: Vipulesh Thiyagarajah is not just a business leader; he is also an author and podcaster who shares his thoughts on philosophy and culture. This shows his broad perspective and dedication to continuous learning and engagement with wider societal issues.
