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HNB Assurance & HNB General Insurance Journey with Lean Six Sigma

HNB Assurance PLC (HNBA) and its fully-owned subsidiary HNB General Insurance Limited (HNBGI), have been having steady year-on-year growth while the business remains dynamic and resilient. Over time, both companies' productivity plateaued, and several waste types were identified by dissecting the processes. With the growing intensity of competition, in 2019, the companies partnered with Dr Mikel J Harry Six Sigma Management Institute Asia to focus on standardization, quality & efficiency improvement, cost reduction, reducing process variation and enhancing process control. Even though Lean Six Sigma (LSS) is not a new concept, it is all about doing more with less. As of date, HNBA & HNBGI have more than 50 Black belt and Green belt LSS practitioners across all divisions of both organizations. Both companies reaffirmed their commitment towards inculcating a lean culture with a recent batch of employees successfully graduating last September 2022, having completed the Green and Black Belt program. Upon successfully completing the course, nominated staff members to undertake a real-life project with the guidance of an SSMI Master Black Belt. Dinesh Yogaratnam, Chief Marketing & Customer Experience Officer stated, "as organizations grow, they may carry with them processes and procedures implemented in the past, which may not add value in the present day. This program has given both organizations the necessary teeth in terms of trained staff who are able to deep dive into processes and improve efficiencies by way of removing nonvalue-adding activities". He also emphasized the importance of a learning culture in the organization so that by understanding and appreciating the potency of concepts such as Lean Six Sigma could inculcate it at all levels in the Company and this change in mindset would contribute towards superior financial performance that ultimately improves the bottom line of the organisation. He thanked Mr Dumidu Ranaweera -Global Director APAC, Middle East, Oceania, Africa & Canada of Dr Mikel J. Harry Six Sigma Management Institute Asia for all the support that has been given in terms of training and guiding the team. Geethani Saram, Head of Business Process Excellence & Procurement of HNBA, reflecting on what LSS revealed, stated that she believes corporates should draw attention to a few critical observations while analyzing the impact of Lean Six Sigma in an organization. Further elaborating, Different LSS tools will deliver different results based on situations and their application. As an organization, we focused on the overall process of providing value to our end customers. The culture for problem identification, rectification and error-proofing enables logical problem-solving, adding value throughout the process. Driving value-added activities permitted us to reduce costs and improve throughput time. We aimed to enhance the knowledge of all our employees, aiding them in selecting the appropriate LSS tools for operational problem-solving. And encouraging employees to become change agents who deliver resounding customer convenience eliminating waste in our processes. Hazana Caffoor, Senior Manager R&D and Process Re-Engineering of HNBGI, mentioned that LSS is a fundamental transformation in the thinking and behavioural patterns rather than applying changes in the process. The systematic elimination of waste creates a positive contribution towards working capital management. After I saw the potential and usefulness of LSS to myself, I made an effort to manifest it in the minds of our people as I saw many opportunities for positive transformation. The aim of this LSS approach has resulted in changing the mindsets of the operational team to look at operations differently while sustaining a lean culture and creating a learning organization. With this initiative, both companies utilize the lean six sigma tools and ideas to promote a new strategic outlook that brings about creativity, innovation, structured problem-solving skills—at the same time, enhancing employee motivation towards providing an excellent service to all our valuable customers. The Lean Six Sigma program of HNBA & HNBGI titled "Evolution Circle" is the Company's way of giving an identity to the program and the team members. As the name implies, the process of evolution that we have embarked upon is seamless in that one needs to constantly keep improving and attuning oneself, to the complex and dynamic environment in which businesses operate and be continually relevant. The Company has also specially designed a rewards and recognition scheme where all members are entitled to participate. At the recently held Staff Conference, the LSS member and their teams were awarded the Best Cost Saving Project, Best Efficiency Improvement Project, and Best Customer Experience Enhancement Project. HNB Assurance PLC (HNBA) is a leading Life Insurance Company in Sri Lanka with a network of 64 branches. Fitch Ratings Lanka has assigned HNBA a rating of 'A+' (lka) for 'National Insurer Financial Strength Rating'. Falling in line with the introduction of the segregation rules by the Insurance Regulator, in January 2015, HNB General Insurance Limited (HNBGI) commenced its operations. HNBGI continues to specialize in motor, non-motor and Takaful insurance solutions while being a fully-owned subsidiary of HNB Assurance PLC. Fitch Ratings Lanka Limited has assigned HNB General Insurance a 'National Insurer Financial Strength Rating' of 'A+' (lka). HNBA is rated within the Top 100 brands and Top 100 companies in Sri Lanka by LMD and has won international awards for Brand Excellence, Digital Marketing and HR Excellence, including the Great Place To Work® Certification, and won many awards for its Annual Reports at award ceremonies organized by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Sri Lanka.

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19

Apr

HNBA Continues Dominance as Best Life Bancassurance Provider for Fourth Consecutive Year

<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:150%;text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:&quot;HNBA &amp; GI&quot;;font-size:10.0pt;"><span style="line-height:150%;">HNB Assurance PLC (HNBA) has once again secured the prestigious title of "Best Life Bancassurance Provider in Sri Lanka" for the fourth consecutive year, recognized by the Global Banking and Finance Review. This award underscores HNBA's strong partnerships and commitment to excellence while maintaining its dominant position within the industry.</span></span><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:150%;text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:&quot;HNBA &amp; GI&quot;;font-size:10.0pt;"><span style="line-height:150%;">Mr. Lasitha Wimalaratne, Chief Executive Officer of HNBA, stating, “It is indeed an immense honor to be acknowledged as the Best Life Bancassurance provider in the country by the esteemed Global Banking and Finance Review - UK, marking our fourth consecutive win. This achievement truly is a testament to the dedication and collaboration of our teams, who continuously push boundaries, foster partnerships and redefine industry benchmarks."</span></span><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:150%;text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:&quot;HNBA &amp; GI&quot;;font-size:10.0pt;"><span style="line-height:150%;">He further emphasized the significance of HNBA's Partnership Channel in their business operations, “As we strive towards our goal to attain 10% market share the partnership channel has a crucial role to play. I’m extremely proud of our team for this achievement and I’m certain we will continue to push boundaries and reach even greater heights.”</span></span><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:150%;text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:&quot;HNBA &amp; GI&quot;;font-size:10.0pt;"><span style="line-height:150%;">"We're thrilled by HNBA's achievement of being the Best Life Bancassurance Provider in Sri Lanka for the fourth consecutive year and are committed to ensuring that our partnership grows even further. By leveraging our strengths as a Group, we are consistently exploring ways to keep delivering top-notch solutions to our customers. My congratulations to HNBA and all the teams involved in this impressive achievement", opined, Mr. Supun Dias, Assistant General Manager - Network Management at Hatton National Bank.</span></span><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:150%;text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:&quot;HNBA &amp; GI&quot;;font-size:10.0pt;"><span style="line-height:150%;">Mr. Sanesh Fernando, Chief Business Officer – Partnerships at HNBA, reflected on the significance of this achievement, stating, “Without a doubt, this achievement stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of the entire Partnership Team, for which I extend my deepest gratitude. A special mention goes out to the management of Hatton National Bank and all our other banking partners for their continued support.</span><span style="line-height:150%;mso-spacerun:yes;">&nbsp; </span><span style="line-height:150%;">To receive this prestigious recognition for the fourth-year running is a clear indication of our relentless commitment to excellence and the efforts made by our team. I’m confident that moving forward, we as a team are committed to delivering exceptional value to our customers collectively contributing to the larger vision of HNBA.”</span></span><o:p></o:p></p>

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17

Apr

Mrs. Rose Cooray Inducted to the Hall of Fame at Great Manager Awards 2024

<p>At the prestigious Great Manager Awards 2024, Mrs. Rose Cooray, the Chairperson of HNB Assurance PLC and HNB General Insurance Limited, was inducted into the Hall of Fame. Mrs. Cooray, who assumed her role in 2015, has been instrumental in steering both companies to remarkable growth and success. Since taking on the mantle of Chairperson, Mrs. Cooray has spearheaded initiatives that have led to substantial financial achievements, embracing cutting-edge technological advancements, securing international acclaim and forming numerous synergies and partnerships that have laid a solid foundation for the future of both organizations. With over 47 years of extensive experience in the financial sector, including a distinguished career at the Central Bank of Sri Lanka where she served as Deputy Governor, Mrs. Cooray brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her leadership roles. Her tenure has been marked by astute decision-making, visionary leadership and a commitment to excellence. In recognition of Mrs. Cooray's outstanding contributions, Mr. Lasitha Wimalaratne, CEO of HNBA, remarked, "Mrs. Rose Cooray's induction into the Hall of Fame is well deserved and a testament to her exemplary leadership. I’m proud to state that under her guidance, HNB Assurance has achieved unprecedented growth and success, setting new benchmarks in the industry. Her visionary approach and strategic initiatives have been instrumental in positioning us for sustained excellence in the years to come. I’d like to extend my congratulations to Mrs. Cooray on this great achievement." “Mrs. Cooray's induction to the Great Manager Awards Hall of Fame is a fitting recognition” opined, Mr. Sithumina Jayasundara, CEO of HNBGI. “Personally, to me, what sets her leadership style apart is how she extends her influence and support way beyond boardroom discussions, making a conscious effort to hear every voice and inspire action. Her willingness to go above and beyond has certainly shaped how we operate as a company. At HNBGI we are extremely proud of her recognition and I’d like to congratulate Mrs. Cooray on her induction to the Hall of Fame”</p>

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15

Apr

HNB Assurance Strengthens Presence with Relocation of Branches in Nugegoda and Nuwara Eliya

<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:150%;text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:&quot;HNBA &amp; GI&quot;;font-size:10.0pt;"><span style="line-height:150%;">HNB Assurance PLC, is delighted to announce the relocation of its branches to prime locations in Nugegoda and Nuwara Eliya. These strategic moves reflect on the company's intention to enhancing accessibility and service delivery to customers in key regions across the island. Providing convenient access to its comprehensive range of insurance products and services, including protection, health, savings, retirement and&nbsp;</span><span style="line-height:150%;mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span><span style="line-height:150%;">MRP has contributed to the progress of the company, showcasing a 20% year on year growth continuously over the past three years.&nbsp;</span></span><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:150%;text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:&quot;HNBA &amp; GI&quot;;font-size:10.0pt;"><span style="line-height:150%;">Mr. Lasitha Wimalaratne, CEO of HNBA, expressing his thoughts at the branch openings, stated, “The decision to relocate our branches in Nugegoda and Nuwara Eliya was driven by our strategic vision to position ourselves in key high-traffic areas, enabling us to foster deeper connections with our customers and offer tailored insurance solutions that safeguard what matters most to them. As we embark on this journey of growth, our branch network remains integral, serving as the bedrock to our customer-centric approach. I have full confidence that these new locations will not only amplify our presence but also elevate the level of service we provide to the local communities."</span></span><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:150%;text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:&quot;HNBA &amp; GI&quot;;font-size:10.0pt;"><span style="line-height:150%;">Mr. Harindra Ramasinghe, Chief Business Officer – Advisor Distribution Channel, emphasized the significance of the relocations in enhancing customer experience. "At HNB Assurance, we are constantly striving to exceed customer expectations and deliver exceptional value. Last year, we were honored for our pioneering Insurance Distribution initiative at the prestigious Emerging Asia Insurance Awards, a recognition which underscores our commitment not only to expansion but also for being innovative with our Distribution Strategy. The relocation of our branches in Nugegoda and Nuwara Eliya enables us to build closer relationships with our customers and provide them with unparalleled support and assistance. With a branch network of 69 branches and an advisor force in excess of 3500, the advisor distribution channel at HNBA has consistently displayed growth and innovation. I extend my heartfelt appreciation for the dedication and hard work of our teams and convey my best wishes for success to both branch teams.”</span></span><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:150%;text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:&quot;HNBA &amp; GI&quot;;font-size:10.0pt;"><span style="line-height:150%;">The Nugegoda branch is now located at 69, S da S Jayasingha Mawatha, Kohuwala, Nugegoda, while the Nuwara Eliya branch has been relocated to 31/1/1, Lowson Street, Nuwara Eliya.&nbsp;</span></span><o:p></o:p></p>

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