From Local Business to Global Success: Navigating the Journey of International Expansion

Charaka Nilangana, currently the Assistant Manager – Human Resources at Domino’s, embodies the power of adaptability and seizing opportunities. With a strong foundation in banking and a natural talent for building relationships, Charaka transitioned seamlessly into the dynamic human resources landscape. Thriving in the fast-paced quick service restaurant (QSR) industry, he has played a pivotal role in driving HR innovation, particularly in enhancing workforce strategy, improving organizational culture, and fostering employee development. His efforts have significantly contributed to creating a more engaged and high-performing team, ensuring the company remains competitive in a dynamic market.

The Unexpected Start in Human Resources

Charaka’s  journey into HR wasn’t planned, it was serendipitous. Initially starting in sales, he describes how an unforeseen opportunity changed the course of his professional life. “I was in sales when I got an unexpected break in HR at leading Bank in Sri Lanka.  This experience opened my eyes to the significance of people networking and recruitment, which later became the foundation of my career in human resources,” he reflects

His time in banking allowed Charaka to sharpen his skills in relationship building, Strategic recruitment , Business understanding and Change management. However, it was his passion for connecting with people that ultimately led him to commit to a long-term career in HR, with a particular focus on recruitment. “There’s something incredibly rewarding about helping individuals find the right opportunities, it gives me a real sense of purpose” he reflects.

His early days in sports also played a pivotal role in shaping his leadership style. “I have always been a team player. My involvement in sports taught me about leadership, discipline, and resilience, all traits that I apply in my HR role today.

From Banking to Domino’s

The leap from banking to the QSR sector was a significant career move for Charaka. The two industries, though demanding, present vastly different challenges. He reflects, “In the banking sector, processes are very structured and defined. At Domino’s, the landscape is entirely different, working with diversified stakeholders, navigating different countries and cultures, adapting to new systems, and addressing a broader range of business challenges. Ensuring team retention here requires a much more hands-on and flexible approach.”

Charaka joined Domino’s Sri Lanka during a time of rapid expansion. His initial responsibility was focused on talent acquisition. However, his expertise and dedication quickly led him to take on a broader role that included performance management, employee engagement, and HR information systems. “At Domino’s, the pace is fast, and agility is key. While talent acquisition gave me a strong foundation, the broader scope of HR at Domino’s allowed me to develop a more comprehensive understanding of human resource management,” he says.

Revolutionizing Recruitment Strategies at Domino’s

One of Charaka’s standout achievements at Domino’s has been his ability to innovate and adapt the recruitment process to meet the company’s growing demands. He introduced a digital transformation strategy that reshaped how Domino’s sourced talent.

“Traditional methods weren’t sufficient. We needed to think outside the box. I partnered with various platforms & tapped into my personal network to bring in talent that aligned with our unique needs,” he shares.

The QSR industry, especially at Domino’s, requires a diverse set of skills, from frontline employees to corporate roles. Charaka notes, “We often recruit individuals from different industries, and it’s not always easy. While we focus on training, having candidates who understand the nature of our industry, like food technology, is always an advantage.” His ability to streamline and adapt recruitment processes has played a crucial role in the Domino’s expansion in Sri Lanka,

At the heart of Charaka’s HR philosophy is the belief in investing in people, not only through compensation but through personal and professional development.

“Retaining talent isn’t just about money, it’s about work-life balance, mental health, and providing growth opportunities. I believe in individual development plans for every employee. No matter the role, everyone deserves a clear path for growth and development,” he explains.

Domino’s Sri Lanka has built a vibrant company culture where employee recognition is a key focus. Charaka proudly shares that the company was named a ‘Great Place to Work’ in 2023 and 2024, Our internal programs keep everyone connected. The energy here is contagious, whether it’s our monthly huddles or engagement initiatives, the focus is on ensuring everyone feels valued and part of the larger mission,” he adds.

Embracing Technology in HR

As the HR landscape evolves, Charaka is keenly aware of the role technology plays in shaping modern HR practices. Domino’s has embraced automation and data-driven recruitment strategies, allowing the HR team to streamline processes such as screening and interview scheduling. “Recruitment today is more data-driven than ever. We can monitor  key metrics , allowing us to focus on more strategic goals. It’s about using technology to make the recruitment process more efficient while maintaining a human touch,” Charaka notes. 

Looking ahead, Charaka believes that the integration of AI-powered talent analytics, predictive hiring tools, and advanced performance management systems will revolutionize HR further. He sees future HR modules incorporating virtual reality (VR) for immersive training experiences, and blockchain technology for enhanced data security and transparent employee records. Tools like predictive analytics will play a significant role in identifying future workforce trends and potential skill gaps, enabling companies to stay competitive. 

He also emphasizes the growing importance of diversity, equity and inclusion, which have become top priorities for companies worldwide, including Domino’s. “Diversity is key to building a strong and innovative team. It’s not just a buzzword, it’s a business imperative,” he asserts.

Words of Advice

Reflecting on his own career journey, Charaka offers valuable advice to those looking to succeed in HR or any other field. “Perseverance is key. Challenges are inevitable, but each one presents an opportunity for growth. Focus on continuously developing your skills, expanding your professional network and always step out of your comfort zone. Growth happens when you embrace discomfort and keep pushing forward. Always be adaptable, whether it’s embracing new technologies or shifting strategies to meet evolving business needs. Additionally, cultivate strong relationships and learn to collaborate effectively. Success in any field, especially HR, is about balancing technical expertise with interpersonal skills and emotional intelligence.

As he continues to grow professionally, Charaka is poised to leave a lasting impact on the HR landscape, both in Sri Lanka and beyond. His inspiring story is a testament to what can be achieved through hard work, innovation, and a relentless focus on people. Charaka’s forward-thinking approach and commitment to fostering inclusive and dynamic work environments highlight his potential to shape the future of HR on a global scale.