Sivagananathan was earlier working as senior vice president for Sri Lanka and India at finance and accounting operations and WNS Global Services.
He is a qualified engineer and accountant.
"Arul's extensive international experience in the BPO sector and his proven expertise in engineering and accounting will be invaluable to the company’s plans to become a global BPO provider," Hayleys chairman Mohan Pandithage said in a statement.
Pandithage said the BPO unit 'Hayleys Aquila' will offer finance and accounting services to international clients.
Hayleys is a diversified group with interests in export manufacturing, agriculture, motor and logistics.