The Employers’ Federation of Ceylon (EFC) has appointed Yashoravi Bakmiwewa as its 14th Director General, marking a landmark moment in the organisation’s 97 year history. She becomes the first woman to lead the EFC and the first female Director General to head an Employers’ Business Member Organisation in South Asia, reinforcing a significant milestone for leadership across the region.

Bakmiwewa succeeds Vajira Ellepola, whose tenure further strengthened the EFC’s position as Sri Lanka’s leading voice for employers. Her appointment reflects the federation’s commitment to continuity, professional excellence and inclusive leadership as organisations adapt to a rapidly evolving world of work.

An Attorney at Law with more than 16 years of service at the EFC, Bakmiwewa holds a Bachelor of Laws from the University of Colombo and a Masters in Labour Relations and Human Resources Management. Throughout her career, she has played a pivotal role in industrial relations, workplace compliance, employer advocacy and national policy development, representing employer interests at key legal and tripartite forums.