Nelum Haththella

I am an award-winning entrepreneur and former CEO with over 20 years of global experience in the publishing and media industries. I have held senior leadership roles across business development, sales and marketing, and operations, working with high-profile personalities and industry leaders around the world. Known for my dynamic approach and strategic mindset, I have built a career on driving innovation, connecting people, and delivering impact on an international scale.

I hold an MBA from York St John University London, a Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology and Communication from Edith Cowan University in Australia, and a Diploma in Human Resource Management from Wigan and Leigh College in the UK. My journey into higher education began at York St John, where I have spent the past 2 years supporting student success. Starting as a Race Equality Student Ambassador, I progressed into a placement year with the Student Opportunities and Enterprise teams, and now play a key role in the Student Opportunities team, leading employer engagement and strategic partnerships for the London campus. I have successfully secured a number of strategic partnerships for YSJ London, helping to enhance student employability, strengthen industry connections and raise the campus profile.

I was jointly awarded the New University Advisor of the Year 2025 by Enactus UK and Ireland, and was also nominated for the AGCAS Employability Professional of the Year 2025. As Co-Chair of the BAME Staff Network at York St John University London, I am a passionate advocate for equality, diversity and inclusion. I am dedicated to building inclusive pathways into employment and empowering international and underrepresented students to achieve their full potential. My work bridges the gap between education and industry, aligning with the University’s mission to be a place of social impact, opportunity and transformation.