Merrill J. Fernando
Merrill Joseph Fernando (born 6th May 1930), in the Negombo neighbourhood of Pallansena, British Ceylon, is the founder and former CEO of global tea company Dilmah. In 2019, Fernando stood down as CEO of Dilmah, as his son, Dilhan, was appointed the new head of the company.
Dr Merrill J. Fernando | |
|---|---|
මෙරිල් ප්රනාන්දු | |
 | |
| Born | Merrill Joseph Fernando 6 May 1930 |
| Nationality | Sri Lankan |
| Education | Maris Stella College, St Joseph's College, Colombo |
| Alma mater | Massey University (Sc.D)[1] |
| Years active | 1988–present |
| Known for | Founder of Dilmah |
| Children | 2, including Dilhan |
| Parent(s) | P Harry Fernando, Lucy Fernando |
| Awards |
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Early life
Fernando was born in Pallansena, Negombo, British Ceylon in 1930. Fernando attended Maris Stella College in Negombo and Saint Joseph's College, Colombo in his youth. His first job was as a inspector for a U.S. petroleum company.[2]
Career
Fernando was one of the first Sri Lankan tea tasters to be selected to learn about tea in Mincing Lane, London. Up until this time, the prevailing colonial system did not believe Sri Lankans were capable of assessing tea as they felt they ate too much curry which would affect their assessment of the taste. However, Fernando was one of five who were selected and trained in London.[3]
Further reading
- The Cup of Kindness. Dilmah Publication. 2012.
- The Story Behind Your Cup of Tea. MJF Charitable Foundation. 2013.
- The Teamaker (2009). Dilmah Publication.[4]
References
- "Honorary doctorate for Dilmah Tea founder". Massey University. 29 November 2019. Retrieved 23 December 2019.
- Ind, Nicholas; Horlings, Sandra (3 March 2016). Brands with a Conscience: How to Build a Successful and Responsible Brand. Kogan Page Publishing. p. 17, 18, 19. ISBN 978-07494-7544-4.
- http://www.asianenterprise.biz/merrill-fernando-beyond-the-tea-garden/full.html
- http://www.dilmahtea.com/tea-inspired-ebooks/free/tea_maker/index.html