In a major move for Sri Lanka’s tourism and hospitality sector, Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams Sri Lanka has appointed Sanjiv Hulugalle, a seasoned international hospitality leader, as its new Chief Executive Officer and General Manager. The appointment signals a bold step forward for Colombo’s most ambitious integrated resort project, positioning it for global recognition.
With three decades of experience spanning 12 countries and five continents, Hulugalle brings a wealth of expertise in luxury hospitality, real estate, and innovation. His distinguished career includes 24 years with Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts and a transformative stint as Managing Director of Auberge Resorts Collection, where he spearheaded a $210 million repositioning project. Most recently, he served as Group President of Hospitality & Real Estate at KOHLER Co.
Returning to his homeland after a brief semi-retirement, Hulugalle describes his new role as “a calling rather than just a job.” He aims to fuse Sri Lanka’s renowned warmth and culture with world-class hospitality, creating a dynamic urban escape that redefines Colombo’s landscape. “Cinnamon Life will be a bold expression of Sri Lankan spirit, blending global sophistication with authentic local experiences,” he said.
Beyond hospitality, Hulugalle is also an investor in AI, real estate, and wellness ventures, reflecting his forward-thinking approach. His leadership is expected to propel Cinnamon Life into a must-visit destination, combining luxury, entertainment, and cultural immersion for international travelers.
As Colombo’s City of Dreams takes shape under his guidance, the project is set to become a symbol of Sri Lanka’s modern ambition, further elevating the country’s profile in global tourism.
