Since its founding in 1997, IFS has steadily expanded its operations in Sri Lanka, transforming from a small team of 26 individuals to a thriving workforce of over 2,500. This remarkable growth highlights Sri Lanka’s pivotal role in IFS’s global expansion, with the country now constituting 40% of the company’s total workforce. In this interview with Belinda Finch, Chief Information Officer of IFS, we explore the factors driving the organization’s growth and fostering a culture of diversity, innovation, and excellence locally and internationally.
Can you describe the significance of IFS’s presence in Sri Lanka and how it contributes to the company’s overall growth strategy?
In 1997, IFS established its first office in Sri Lanka with a team of 26 individuals. Since then, our presence in Sri Lanka has expanded significantly, with over 2,500 employees contributing to our operations. Currently, Sri Lanka accounts for 40% of our company’s workforce, showcasing the substantial growth we have experienced in the region. We have ambitious plans to expand our team in Sri Lanka by adding 1,000 more employees. The support provided by our Sri Lanka team is integral to our business, with 80% of it dedicated to internal functions within IFS. In comparison, 60% are involved in research, development, and product-related activities. As a critical hub for IFS, Sri Lanka plays a crucial role in our ongoing success, and we are excited about the remarkable growth opportunities it presents.
How does IFS prioritize diversity and inclusion within its workforce?
In IFS, diversity and inclusion are core values that we prioritize. We firmly believe that a diverse workforce contributes to the success of our company. As a technology-driven organization, we recognize the importance of having a diverse team and fostering innovation and creativity. We are making significant strides towards achieving gender balance, aiming for a 50-50 split between male and female employees. While we are already above the industry average with over 40% female representation, we are committed to reaching full parity. Internally, we have implemented various diversity and inclusion programmes and actively collaborate with universities to attract a diverse talent pool. We aim to create an inclusive and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive professionally, regardless of background or identity.
What strategies does IFS employ to foster diversity and inclusion within the organization?
We have various initiatives in place to foster diversity and inclusion within IFS, catering to different groups such as women, LGBTQ, persons with disabilities, and those from BAME backgrounds. One of our key executive groups, Women at IFS, focuses on empowering women in the workplace. Additionally, we organize networking events and training programmes and invite external speakers to provide valuable insights. These initiatives promote professional development and create a sense of community. We also have local groups to address region-specific needs. Another important programme is our Returners to Work initiative, which aims to reintegrate individuals into the workforce, especially women returning from maternity or extended leave. Moreover, we offer highly subsidized childcare facilities, recognizing the importance of supporting employees through various life stages. Our commitment to these initiatives reflects our dedication to creating an inclusive and supportive work environment for all employees.
What role does diversity and inclusion play in driving innovation?
From the perspective of IFS, diversity and innovation are inherently intertwined. In today’s landscape, with AI being omnipresent, diversity becomes paramount. The absence of diversity in artificial intelligence can lead to biases, a scenario we aim to avoid. Therefore, fostering diversity is not only essential for IFS but also for any technology-driven organization.
How does IFS collaborate with universities and organizations like SLASSCOM to promote innovation and technology education among students?
We actively engage with 23 universities in Sri Lanka through sponsorship, training, and internship programmes aimed at nurturing talent. Additionally, we recognize the importance of reaching the grassroots level of education. Therefore, we collaborate with SLASSCOM to integrate innovation and technology education into the curriculum for younger students. These partnerships are crucial for cultivating a skilled workforce and fostering innovation from a young age.
What are some of the priorities for IFS in Sri Lanka?
Ensuring that our workplace is supportive and inclusive is our top priority at IFS. This means offering excellent benefits for women, implementing effective diversity policies, and providing robust diversity programmes. We believe in fostering a sense of belonging where everyone’s voice is valued and individuals feel part of a community. We must have supportive groups and communities where like-minded individuals can connect. Through our research, particularly with IFS Sri Lanka, we’ve found that having a central team for training, discussions on various topics, health advice, or simply as a support system is highly valued by our team members. This sense of community and support is something we deeply value.