About Padmi Dissanayake

Padmi Dissanayake is an accomplished Chief People Officer with over 25 years of experience leading transformative HR strategies across diverse sectors, including healthcare, community services, and social enterprises. Padmi partners with CEOs and boards in 38 countries, influencing strategic direction and governance to drive organisational growth.

Her career highlights include leading HR transformations during mergers and acquisitions, implementing digital HR solutions, and spearheading cultural change initiatives that enhance employee engagement and accountability. Known for her collaborative and people-centric approach, Padmi inspires teams to connect their work to a greater sense of purpose, ultimately improving service delivery and community outcomes.

An advocate for diversity and inclusion, Padmi has led numerous initiatives promoting well-being and cultivating psychologically safe environments. She is recognized for her ability to build trust and respect at all organisational levels, fostering a growth mindset and accountability.

Padmi’s expertise aligns with her firm’s purpose of empowering boards, business leaders, and individuals to drive transformative change. Through tailored strategies, she helps organisations assess workforce capabilities, operating models, and culture, enabling them to navigate change successfully in a rapidly evolving world.

Padmi holds several professional memberships and accreditations, including being a Fellow Certified Practitioner HR (FCPHR) and a Professional Member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (MAICD).