Mr. M. G. Hemachandra is a distinguished professional of experience in development policy analysis and formulation, economic development program and project design, implementation, and post-evaluation. A veteran in corporate governance, strategic planning, project management, procurement, and Contract Administration. He holds an MBA in Infrastructure and a Bachelor of Engineering (Hons) from the University of Moratuwa.

As the Chairman of the Urban Development Authority, Mr. Hemachandra is providing strategic leadership to transform Sri Lanka’s urban development framework. His key priorities include strengthening transparent and efficient governance, revitalizing strategic and stalled urban development projects, enhancing investor confidence and public–private partnership initiatives, and modernizing urban policy and planning in line with sustainable development goals, smart city concepts, and national economic priorities. He is also focused on promoting integrated and sustainable urbanization, driving digital transformation through e-governance, fostering multi-agency coordination, and ensuring urban development contributes directly to GDP growth, employment generation, and improved living standards.

Previously, Mr. Hemachandra served as Chief of Yen Loan Operations at JICA Sri Lanka, overseeing development portfolios across Water Supply and Sanitation, Ports, Airports, Irrigation, Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries, and Rural Development sectors. His earlier professional experience includes service as Senior Engineer at the National Water Supply & Drainage Board, Project Engineer at the Central Engineering Consultancy Bureau. He also sits on the boards of management and advisory councils for several prominent organizations.

In addition serving as the Chairman of the Urban Development Authority, Mr. Hemachandra serves as a Director of Urban Investment & Development Company (Private) Limited and Director of Lanka Rest House Limited, Ocean View Development (Pvt) Ltd, Urban Settlement Development Authority, Waters Edge Limited, Tea, Rubber & Coconut Estates (Control of Fragmentation) Board.