Sri Lanka’s Nazri Nizar elected to YPO global board in historic first

Colombo, June 13 (Daily Mirror) - For the first time in the 76-year history of the Young Presidents' Organisation (YPO), a Sri Lankan has been elected to its global board, with business leader Nazri Nizar securing a position on the governing body of one of the world's most influential leadership organisations.

The appointment was confirmed at the YPO Annual General Meeting held on 21 May 2026. Nizar will serve as a YPO global board director from 2026 to 2029 and will concurrently serve as chair of the YPO Global Forum Committee.

Founded in 1950, YPO is a global leadership community comprising more than 38,000 chief executives, entrepreneurs and business leaders across 150 countries. Collectively, its members lead organisations generating approximately US$9 trillion in annual revenue, placing YPO among the most influential peer leadership networks in the world.

Unlike traditional business associations, YPO is built around the philosophy that leadership is a lifelong pursuit. Through a combination of executive education, peer learning and confidential leadership forums, the organisation provides a platform for business leaders to learn from one another's experiences and navigate the personal and professional challenges that accompany leadership. At a time when organisations are navigating unprecedented technological, economic and social change, platforms such as YPO continue to underscore the importance of learning, collaboration and leadership across borders.

Nizar's election follows years of service within the organisation. He has previously served as chapter chair of the YPO Colombo Integrated Chapter, been a member of the YPO South Asia Regional Board and, most recently, served on the YPO Global Forum Committee. In addition to his responsibilities as a global board director, Nizar will lead the Global Forum Committee, which oversees one of YPO's most valued and enduring member experiences.

Commenting on the appointment, Nizar said YPO had played a defining role in shaping his leadership journey.

"YPO taught me that leadership is not about having all the answers. It is about continuous learning, trusted relationships and the willingness to grow through the experiences of others," he said.

Describing the appointment as both humbling and inspiring, Nizar said he hoped the milestone would encourage more Sri Lankan leaders to engage with global platforms, contribute to international conversations and share their experiences with peers around the world.

Nizar currently serves as group managing director of Richardson Holdings, a diversified Sri Lankan enterprise with interests spanning engineering, infrastructure, renewable energy, manufacturing and out-of-home advertising.

His election represents a notable achievement for Sri Lankan business leadership and reflects the increasing contribution of Sri Lankan executives within international leadership networks.