Open to opportunities

Nilusha Bandara

@nilushabandara

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Lead Product Owner driving digital transformation and zero-defect SaaS delivery for manufacturing and telecom.

Sri Lanka

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What I'm looking for

I seek a senior product role driving digital transformation in collaborative, outcome-focused teams, with ownership of end-to-end delivery and mentoring opportunities.

I am a Lead Product Owner and Product Manager with over 8 years of experience delivering digital transformation and SaaS solutions across telecommunications and manufacturing. I specialize in translating complex client requirements into production-ready environments, authoring PRDs, defining user stories, and shaping high-level test strategies to ensure zero-defect delivery.

At Poka Inc. and previous roles at Dialog Axiata, I led end-to-end product ownership, launched SLTRC-compliant e-commerce and SIM-to-eSIM initiatives, and migrated websites to MACH architecture, consistently aligning product roadmaps with business goals and user needs. I drive cross-functional collaboration, mentor product teams, and oversee release readiness and risk mitigation to maintain on-time, high-quality releases.

I hold a Master of IT Management and multiple certifications in AI, Agile, and product ownership, and I am recognized for fostering continuous improvement, accessibility, and measurable product success. I am motivated by building scalable, user-centered digital products that deliver measurable business impact.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Current

Lead Product Owner

Current

Poka Inc.

Jan 2024 - Present (2 years 2 months)

Owned end-to-end product for Poka’s connected worker platform (Admin, Tooling & Security), authored PRDs and user stories, and defined test strategies to ensure on-time, zero-defect releases while mentoring Product Owners and improving cross-functional delivery.

Product Management Agile Delivery Test Strategy Cross Functional Collaboration Mentorship SaaS

Lead Product Manager

Dialog Axiata PLC

Jan 2017 - Jan 2024 (7 years)

Launched Sri Lanka's first SLTRC-compliant e-commerce platform, led SIM→eSIM conversion initiatives and a MACH architecture website revamp, delivering omnichannel e-commerce and improved accessibility and account management features.

Digital Transformation Product Roadmapping Stakeholder Management Accessibility

Senior Project Manager

M&C Saatchi

Jan 2016 - Jan 2017 (1 year)

Managed end-to-end software delivery projects for clients including Celcom and Malaysian Airlines, developing detailed project plans and coordinating media owners, agency partners, and internal teams to ensure timely global campaign delivery.

Project Management Project Planning Campaign Delivery Risk Mitigation Vendor Management

Specialist, Web Content & Strategy

Maxis Telecommunications

Jan 2010 - Jan 2016 (6 years)

Led conception and execution of interactive campaigns and content strategy for Maxis, producing functional specifications, development plans, and engagement strategies to improve website experience and product rollout.

Content Strategy Web Content Management Functional Specifications Campaign Management Go To Market UX Strategy

Graduate Lecturer

Asia Pacific University

Jan 2009 - Jan 2010 (1 year)

Delivered lectures and practical sessions in business technology, developed course materials, and guided students to achieve module learning outcomes.

Curriculum Development Teaching Assessment Design Presentation Skills

Web Content Intern

New Straits Times Press

Jan 2006 - Jan 2007 (1 year)

Supported setup of NST Online database, managed timely web content updates, and designed digital banners to strengthen the newspaper's online presence.

Content Management Digital Design Database Support