Nilanka Thiyambarawatte

Experienced Merchandising, Marketing, and Operations Management professional with 20+ years in the apparel manufacturing and sourcing industry. Expertise in merchandising strategy, product development, sourcing, supply chain management, production planning, and key account management. Proven track record of managing global apparel brands, driving business growth, improving operational efficiency, and maximizing profitability through strategic planning and customer-focused solutions.

Skilled in leading high-performing teams, building strong client relationships, and delivering sustainable commercial success.

Account Manager – Merchandising - Orit Trading Lanka (Pvt) Ltd - Colombo, Sri Lanka

(2025-01)

• Manage strategic customer accounts and merchandising operations.
• Drive product development initiatives and sourcing strategies.
• Coordinate with buyers, suppliers, and production teams to ensure customer satisfaction.
• Monitor business performance, profitability, and delivery commitments.

Senior Merchandiser - Hirdaramani Center of Operations (HCO) - Maharagama, Sri Lanka

(2024-01 - 2025-01)

• Managed end-to-end merchandising operations for global fashion brands.
• Coordinated forecasting, capacity planning, and production execution.
• Strengthened customer relationships through consistent delivery performance

Manager – Merchandising, Planning & Operations - Duty Free Sourcing Inc. - Maseru, Lesotho (Southern Africa)

(2021-01 - 2024-01)

• Led merchandising, planning, sourcing, and operational functions.
• Managed customer order books, budgets, pricing strategies, and profitability targets.
• Improved supply chain efficiency and delivery performance.
• Directed cross-functional teams to achieve operational and commercial objectives.

Merchandising Manager - Next Manufacturing (Pvt) Ltd - Katunayake, Sri Lanka

(2019-01 - 2021-01)

• Managed merchandising teams and strategic customer portfolios.
• Led product development and sourcing initiatives.
• Improved operational efficiency and customer service standards.
• Supported business growth through strategic account management.

Senior Merchandiser - Jay Jay Mills Lanka (Pvt) Ltd - Seethawaka, Sri Lanka

(2013-01 - 2019-01)

• Managed large-scale apparel programs for premium global brands.
• Coordinated product development, costing, and bulk production.
• Maintained strong customer relationships and delivery performance.

Merchandiser - Anglo Apparel Co. Sdn Bhd - Malaysia

(2010-01 - 2013-01)

• Managed merchandising activities for denim apparel production.
• Coordinated sourcing, costing, and production planning.

Merchandiser - ZM Vertiko (Pvt) Ltd - Padukka, Sri Lanka

(2005-01 - 2010-01)

• Handled product development and merchandising operations.
• Managed supplier relationships and production coordination.

Production Supervisor - Hirdaramani Industries (Pvt) Ltd - Kuruwita, Sri Lanka

(2002-01 - 2005-01)

• Supervised production teams and factory operations.
• Ensured production targets, quality standards, and operational efficiency.

Diploma - Production Management - Garment Industry Management Institute (GIMI)

G.C.E. Advanced Level & Ordinary Level - Sivali Central College

Primary Education - St. Thomas' College