Hasanthi De Saram, Human Resources Director at Asiri Health, is a testament to the power of diverse experiences and a passion for connecting with people. Her journey began amidst the vibrant streets of Oxford Street, London, where she explored Sales and Marketing at British Transport Advertising. This period fostered her ability to collaborate within multinational and multicultural teams, laying the groundwork for her future endeavors. Upon returning to her homeland of Sri Lanka with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration and a specialization in Marketing and Accounting, she essayed on an expedition at Aitken Spence. This was marked by her involvement in the pioneering Corporate Trainee program and subsequent contributions as a Marketing Executive at Aitken Spence Shipping.
Her strong desire for knowledge led her to the halls of Taj Samudra, where she simultaneously pursued her MBA and explored the intricacies of the Balanced Scorecard Management System, under the guidance of Alan Fell. A fortuitous twist of fate led Hasanthi to the doors of John Keells Holdings, igniting her transformation from Marketing specialist to HR enthusiast. The role she played as the Director of Group Recruitment and Selection by revamping the HR processes across the group exemplifies her ability to envision the processes to world-class standards in consultation with Grow Talent – a renowned consultancy firm in India, where she was exposed to the best systems in Birla Group, Infosys, Astra Zenica, TI etc. which made her become the beacon guiding the organization towards attracting the finest talents and project a magnetic brand persona.
Subsequently, a unique chapter unfolded as she tackled international development, gracing the United Nations Development Program as the Head of HR for the Sri Lankan office. This tenure, characterized by service to society’s most vulnerable, introduced her to global best practices and systems. The page turned once more, propelling her into the dynamic and demanding world of healthcare at Asiri Hospitals. Balancing the rigorous demands of a 24/7 operation with the delicate intricacies of HR, she navigated uncharted waters. Armed with perseverance and an acute understanding of the healthcare sector’s nuances, she undertook the task of revamping policies and procedures, elevating the patient experience to an echelon aligned with international benchmarks.
While her journey might not have initially been a blueprint for HR, Hasanthi’s inherent ability to connect, guide, and uplift others has seamlessly woven into her role. Her love for fostering potential and nurturing talent has led her to spearhead numerous career guidance initiatives, cementing her legacy as an advocate for the youth.
In the whirlwind of her impressive HR journey, Hasanthi faced a decade filled with challenges, including the COVID era, Easter attacks, and economic downturns. Throughout these tough times, she showed incredible resilience and wisdom. The COVID period, in particular, put her skills to the test, but Hasanthi, being the pro she is, skillfully managed the organization’s response. Juggling roles as a mother, daughter, and wife, she not only ensured her family’s safety but also took charge of the company’s well-being, both physically and mentally. Navigating through uncertain times, she served as a steady bridge, steering through turbulent seas. Her knack for maintaining cost consciousness without compromising quality and staff morale truly stood out, reflecting her ability to bring hope and stability even in the toughest times through dedication, adaptability, and effective communication.
Yet, another pinnacle etches itself into her journey – the acquisition of a Fellowship from the Chartered Institute of Personnel Development, UK. It was a daunting endeavor, demanding a fusion of case studies, research publications, personal experiences, and an articulate viva. Undeterred, Hasanthi’s genuine approach and eloquent articulation set her apart. With this prestigious distinction, she secured her place not only among the elite few Sri Lankans to attain such heights but also as the first Sri Lankan female to claim this honor. Her Fellowship stands not merely as an achievement, but a symbol of her indomitable spirit and prowess in the HR realm. Today, her qualifications cast an aura of distinction, recognized and respected in the United Kingdom and affording her a competitive edge among HR luminaries at the highest echelons.
With a profound belief that HR is the simplest and most complex of endeavors, Hasanthi blends her strategies with the ebb and flow of industry needs and human intricacies. Balancing the malleability of HR practices with the gravity of decisions impacting lives, she treads a delicate line, crafting her unique recipe for success. Her secret ingredient? Self-awareness and an intuitive grasp of the internal terrain. Her quest for evolution spans various avenues, from social media networks to international HR institutions, with a special nod to the edifying insights garnered from conferences at CIPD UK. Yet, her North Star remains Asiri Health’s commitment to knowledge and capability, underpinned by esteemed accreditations and global affiliations.
And what of her team-building philosophy?
With a belief in mutual trust and the capabilities of each individual, she fosters an environment where teams thrive. Her leadership rests upon the bedrock of genuineness, where transparency and honesty are the compass guiding her approach. Though challenges may arise, she stands firm in her commitment to explaining the “why” behind tasks and instilling a dedication to protocols while infusing her interactions with a compassionate human touch. Through this blend, she tunes into the collective and individual needs, ensuring that the values essential for cohesive collaboration are upheld. Her commitment to righteousness and respect becomes the fuel that propels her teams toward limitless achievements, casting a radiant light upon the path toward shared goals and aspirations.
To Hasanthi, an authentic leader is a dynamic force, a driving current that propels both team and organization toward collective success. Through the crucible of experience, she has distilled the quintessence of leadership into three vital traits. First and foremost, the art of being a “people’s person” emerges as a linchpin. Possessing an innate capacity for empathy and a genuine interest in individual growth, a leader molds the organizational fabric, adapting to the unique cadence of each generation while orchestrating a cultural symphony. Second, the pillars of honesty and integrity stand tall. Upholding these virtues, a leader forges a reputation that transcends mere transactions and garners the respect and trust of colleagues. For Hasanthi, this isn’t just professional currency, but a steadfast anchor guiding her through the ever-shifting tides of leadership. Lastly, the rudder of “Right Focus” steers the course. Amidst the cacophony of fleeting trends and transient gains, a leader’s ability to discern priorities and resolutely pursue what truly matters stands paramount.
Led by unshakable determination and the support of her family, Hasanthi exemplifies an adherence to these foundational principles. In the symphony of effective leadership, she conducts a transformative narrative, where people-centricity, integrity, and focus blend to compose an enduring melody of success.