Priya Kamineni from South Australian Bridge Association

"PRIYA HAS EXERCISED STELLAR LEADERSHIP TO PROPEL THE CLUB INTO THE FUTURE"

Although Priya Kamineni has been the General Manager at the SA Bridge Association (SABA) for only 18 months, she has already made a significant difference to the Club and its Members. Described as a ‘stand out’ manager, Priya demonstrates adaptability, resilience and extensive business skills while operating as a collaborative leader. Such is Priya’s passion for her role, the Club has become her second home as she works continuously in seeking new initiatives and revenue streams to future proof the Club.

The high regard that the committee has for Priya’s efforts is evident in their appraisal of the past year: “We are grateful to have Priya on board at an incredibly crucial time as she worked around the clock to address the key challenges faced by the club post COVID and while the future of bridge clubs in general is uncertain given the decline in the numbers of bridge players across the world. What really set her apart from other managers is that she not only strived to restore the club to its financial health but also that her sincerity and dedication for the club and its members resonated deeply with the members who started returning due to positive referrals from their friends For someone who has never been in a club environment previously, the speed with which Priya acquainted herself to manage a small business, not just managing its operations but demonstrating the inspiration, time and energy to simultaneously take on demanding operational and strategic projects, both short and long-term is highly commendable. Our members, staff and committee acknowledge Priya’s contributions and the resulting positive impact felt in the smooth operations of the club and culture. ”

The list of the changes Priya has made to the Club’s operations is long and includes:

Implementing a new accounting system

• Implementing a new membership management system

• Reversing the revenue and membership decline within her first six months

• Introducing new initiatives for members including a new short bridge session, new supervised sessions and guest lecturers

• Improving marketing strategies such as a plan to offer 50% more courses year on year, resulting in a 70% increase in educational income.

  She also successfully applied for a community grant to implement community outreach including free card games for seniors.

A vital part of growing the participation of bridge lies in explaining the game to novices and this has to be in a way for potential new members to feel comfortable and confident, thereby encouraging them to join up President Caprice explains how Priya has been particularly successful in this area:

“Priya’s contributions extend beyond her individual efforts. She played a key role in spearheading a major initiative focused on understanding the journey of bridge beginners and identifying areas where support and tools were needed. Together with a committee member, she formed the Education Pathways Subcommittee, which focuses on improving the beginners transition into regular players thereby increasing retention and membership She worked closely with a senior committee member to help set up a pathbreaking program called Mentoring Mondays which is hugely successful and innovative She introduced a short bridge session, based on member preferences which has grown strongly since its inception early this year with a plan to introduce a second regular session during the week. She was instrumental in helping the club trial online bridge with an international competition pilot.

These path-breaking initiatives have not only positioned our club as a leader in bridge development but also showcased our commitment to providing a scientific and systematic approach to supporting player transition underpinned by the principles of the customer experience and the customer journey. By offering relevant courses, mentorship and a range of bridge playing opportunities, the club ensures that members have the necessary resources to enhance their skills and enjoy a fulfilling bridge experience.”

Word has spread of Priya’s efforts and their effects on life at the SA Bridge Association, even interstate!

“Word of Priya’s impact on the club is reaching far and wide to the point that someone in Queensland who went to Perth for a national competition rang up to share that he was hearing very good things about Priya and the changes she has brought about at the club.”

This is a fantastic result and is clear evidence of the positive effects of Priya’s leadership skills. No wonder she is so valued by all as SABA.

Priya Kamineni, General Manager