About Research

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— Please tell us about your research.

My major field is Business Administration, with a specialization in Organization Studies. In my research, I explore micro-level aspects of organizational behavior. This contributes to organization theory while providing insights for organizational and management scholars as well as practitioners. In my current research, I focus broadly on organizational diversity and workforce management, specifically exploring post-retirement engagement in the context of workforce ageing.

— What are the most surprising or exciting findings you have uncovered so far?

In my recent research, I have “unlearned” my previous understanding that the majority of retirees are socially isolated, struggling with health issues, and often face difficult lives. I have discovered that retirees make up a valuable workforce of enthusiastic individuals who are ready to face challenging circumstances. In addition, I found that they are willing and happy to share their life stories.

— What tools, must-have gear, or methods are essential to your work?

Research on post-retirement engagement must be conducted qualitatively to understand the dynamic and subjective realities of individual retirees. This requires a thorough review of existing literature and available survey findings, development of interview protocols, including semi-structured interview guides and focus group discussion guides. Further, a comprehensive review of existing analytical frameworks and conceptual models is beneficial for developing rigorous analyses. Qualitative data analysis software, such as NVivo, is also useful for conducting content and thematic analyses.

— Are there any specific habits or work routines you follow?

Research is a long-term commitment to a chosen project. Thus, to maintain the momentum and keep going, it is important to work in short and manageable time blocks. This approach helps create sustainable, long-term engagement with your research. Collaborating with suitable research partners is also beneficial. Further, frequent reflection and checking one’s progress are important routines to ensure the work is completed in a timely and successful manner.

Research Inspiration

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— Is there a specific moment or event that made you decide to enter this field?

My choice of Organization Studies was supported by my major field, Business Administration, as well as admiration for my academic advisor during my master’s and doctoral level studies. His knowledge and academic excellence gave me a strong impression of the specialization. My initial motivation for this research came from my involvement in a collaborative group project on post-retirement disengagement with my colleagues. As retirement is unavoidable for all of us, and as I am also approaching retirement, I became increasingly interested in the topic. I intend to further explore post-retirement engagement, particularly among retired women who have become entrepreneurs.

Societal Impact

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— How do you envision your research being utilized, developed, and contributing to society in the long term?

As the workforce ages, it is essential to support retirees in maintaining meaningful engagement and mental well-being. My research findings will provide insights for the development of programs and strategies to enhance post-retirement engagement and well-being, benefiting retirees, work organizations, and society as a whole.

Asian cultures may have distinct norms and beliefs related to retirement. This project aims to contribute to reshaping the perception of retirement, not simply as a withdrawal from the workplace, but as part of a continued journey of learning and development, particularly in the Asian context. By recognizing the economic and social potential of an experienced workforce, this research may help address broader societal challenges and organizational workforce needs and challenges.

Life Beyond Research

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— How do you balance the demands of research with maintaining a fulfilling personal life, managing stress and well-being?

Academic life is busy with teaching, evaluations, supervision, research, and administrative work. To manage this stress, I spend time in nature through sightseeing and leisure activities. Painting is my main creative outlet. I work with acrylics and soft pastels, and I enjoy capturing the beauty of nature in my artwork. In addition, I walk every day and try to maintain a calm and peaceful mind through spiritual practices. I also enjoy taking part in residential meditation retreats.

Advice for the Next Generation

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— What advice or tips would you give to younger scholars?

My advice to younger scholars or anyone interested in a research career is to stay curious, persistent, and open-minded. Start by building a strong foundation in your chosen field, but also be open to exploring ideas from other disciplines. Many important breakthroughs come from connecting different perspectives.

Looking Ahead

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— What is the next step in your research journey?

I would like to explore the post-retirement activity of women who become entrepreneurs through family businesses or self-employment. Specifically, I would like to focus on their business models and innovations.

— What is your vision for the future of your field?

It is my view that greater emphasis should be placed on post-retirement engagement, particularly in terms of organizational support systems and local government policies.

— What research topics do you believe will be essential for the future of the region?

I believe that further exploration of post-retirement lives, activities, challenges, and educational opportunities is needed in both South Asia and Southeast Asia.

Kumudinei Dissanayake is a professor in the Department of Management and Organization Studies, Faculty of Management and Finance, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka. She teaches Organization Theory, Organizational Change and Development, Organizational Behavior, and Research Methods. She obtained her first degree [Bachelor of Commerce (Special) degree] and her Master of Business Administration [MBA] from the University of Colombo, Sri Lanka. She also earned her MBA and Doctoral degree from Meiji University, Japan, under the Japanese Government Postgraduate Research Scholarship (Monbukagakusho). She has received research training in Australia under the Australian Leadership Awards and has worked as a visiting research scholar at the Institute of Developing Economies and the Japan Institute for Labor Policy and Training. She has served as Editor, Managing Editor, and Editor-in-Chief of the Colombo Business Journal. In addition, she has been a member of the editorial boards of the University of Colombo Review and the Colombo Journal of Multidisciplinary Research. Her current research interests include generational changes and workforce ageing in organizations, post-retirement engagement and human resource strategies, and business model innovation among women entrepreneurs. She has served as the Head of the Department of Management and Organization Studies and as the Coordinator of MPhil/PhD programs and several Master’s degree programs at the Faculty of Management and Finance and the Faculty of Graduate Studies. Currently, she serves as the Director of Studies of the Faculty of Graduate Studies, University of Colombo.