Ranil DeSilva
Episode Summary: In this episode of the Emagia AI for Finance Podcast, host Brian Shappell speaks with Ranil DeSilva, Chief Financial and Operating Officer at CARE, about the real-world impact of AI, autonomous finance, and digital transformation across global finance and supply chain operations.
Drawing on leadership experience spanning finance, operations, humanitarian logistics, and multinational shared services environments, Ranil offers a practical and candid discussion on what finance leaders should focus on beyond the hype surrounding AI. The conversation explores how organizations are using AI-native technologies to improve efficiency, strengthen planning and predictive analytics, modernize supply chain and finance workflows, and prepare for the future of autonomous operations.
The episode also examines several of the biggest challenges facing finance leaders today, including data readiness, governance, workforce transformation, and the operational realities of scaling AI globally across complex organizations. Ranil shares practical guidance on balancing innovation with oversight, why finance teams must rethink skills and organizational structures, and how leaders can approach AI adoption strategically without falling victim to unrealistic expectations. The discussion closes with a simple but powerful message for finance executives navigating the AI era: “Think big, start small.”
Speaker highlights: Ranil DeSilva is currently Chief Financial and Operating Officer with CARE, a leading global humanitarian organization, where he oversees and is responsible for the efficient operations for a $900 million finance and operational portfolio.
Prior to his tenure at CARE, DeSilva – formerly of Deloitte’s accounting division – served in CFO and Global Director of Financial Analysis roles for Save the Children International, managing multi-billion-dollar operational and reporting portfolios.
DeSilva’s expertise spans a wide range of functions, including Finance, Operations, Support Services, Supply Chain, HR, Digital, Legal, Risk Management, and Project/Change Management. According to DeSilva “I excel in leading transformative initiatives, driving change, and fostering high-performance cultures within teams.”
