Turning a Family Legacy into Industrial Progress
Dr Manisha Rodrigo
Managing Partner
Bopitiya Auto Springs
Turning a Family Legacy into Industrial Progress
Dr Manisha Rodrigo
Managing Partner
Bopitiya Auto Springs
Dr Manisha Rodrigo-Asia's 40 Under 40 2026
Growing up around automotive manufacturing gave Dr Bastiyan Koralalage Anne Manisha Sweene Rodrigo (Dr Manisha Rodrigo) an early view of what it takes to build an industrial business. She saw the commitment behind production, the challenges entrepreneurs must navigate, and the responsibilities that accompany every business decision. Yet, carrying forward a family legacy presented her with a larger question: how could that experience contribute to Sri Lanka’s industrial future?
As Managing Director of Bopitiya Auto Springs, established in 2016, Dr Manisha has found her answer in building a sustainable enterprise that creates employment and strengthens local manufacturing. Her approach combines practical business responsibilities with a strong commitment to learning, shaped in part by completing a PhD in business administration at just 23 while pursuing her professional career. Discussing her journey with TradeFlock, Dr Manisha reflects on how inherited experience became an independent entrepreneurial vision and strategies that place business growth alongside a wider responsibility to the economy. She also thanks her entrepreneurial parents for their unconditional support throughout her journey.
When safety and growth pointed in different directions, how did you choose, and what did the experience teach you?
I believe successful leadership requires balancing caution with the courage to pursue growth. In manufacturing, every major decision must consider financial stability, operational capabilities, employee satisfaction, customer expectations, and long-term sustainability.
At Bopitiya Auto, my focus is on strengthening manufacturing capabilities, improving efficiency, and investing in product, people and process innovations. Before pursuing an opportunity, I consider its potential benefits, assess the associated risks, and evaluate whether it supports our long-term vision.
This approach has taught me that growth does not necessarily mean taking the biggest risk. It means making informed decisions, remaining adaptable, and recognising opportunities that can create lasting value. Protecting a business and moving it forward must go hand in hand.
What early-career setback tested you most as a leader, and how did it change your approach to people, operations, and difficult decisions?
One of my biggest challenges came during the early stages of establishing Bopitiya Auto Springs, when the hardness of our first two batches of leaf springs failed to meet the required standards. This resulted in significant financial losses, as we had to repeat the process while identifying the root cause.
Instead of getting discouraged, I focused on understanding the technical issues, correcting the process, and ensuring product quality. The experience taught me that manufacturing demands precision, continuous improvement, and the courage to confront problems directly.
As a leader, I learned to approach setbacks with a problem-solving mindset, examine processes carefully, and make decisions based on lessons learned. This experience strengthened my resilience and determination. Had I stepped back after that loss, my journey might have been very different. Sometimes, difficult beginnings lay the foundation for stronger leadership and lasting growth.
Which emerging trend will have the greatest impact on automotive component manufacturers, and what is the industry currently underestimating?
I believe smart manufacturing, data-driven decisions, and sustainable production will shape the automotive components industry. Manufacturers must improve quality, productivity, and cost efficiency while meeting evolving customer expectations.
For Sri Lanka, localisation presents an opportunity to strengthen domestic engineering, reduce import dependence, and expand exports. However, the industry may be underestimating sustainability as a source of competitive advantage. Resource efficiency, waste reduction, and responsible manufacturing can lower operational costs and open opportunities in environmentally conscious markets.
The awards and certifications received by Bopitiya Auto reflect our commitment to sustainable practices and continuous improvement. My vision is to establish Bopitiya Auto as a stronger regional hub for automotive suspension components through engineering expertise, innovation, and responsible manufacturing.
What advice would you give young women aspiring to lead businesses in traditionally male-dominated industries?
Never allow industry traditions or gender stereotypes to define how far you can go. In male-dominated sectors, establish your credibility through knowledge, integrity, discipline, and results. Leadership demands competence, sound judgement, and the courage to take responsibility.
Develop technical expertise and business acumen, as competence builds confidence. Seek practical experience beyond academic qualifications. Understand operations, learn how products are made, engage with employees, and listen to customers. Respect for the people behind a business is as important as understanding its financial performance.
You may need to prove yourself repeatedly, navigate unfamiliar environments, or defend difficult decisions. Learn from criticism, acknowledge mistakes, and remain true to your values.
My journey balancing higher education with professional responsibilities has taught me that progress requires courage, consistency, and continuous learning. Age should never be a barrier when conviction drives you. Be willing to fail, rise again, and persevere; unwavering commitment can lead to success and fulfilment.
Measure success not only by the positions you achieve but also by the opportunities you create for others. Build businesses that empower people, encourage innovation, support communities, and inspire future generations.
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