Sprouta partnered with the Institute of Public Administration Australia (IPAA) NSW Division, as it faced significant challenges due to COVID-19 and budget cuts, resulting in revenue impact and operational strain. With the help of Sprouta Ecosystem, and CEO Madeleine Culbert, IPAA developed a client-centred business model, adopted agile practices, and launched new products to meet member needs.
This bold transformation led to financial turnaround, significant membership growth, and a more collaborative culture. IPAA is now focused on continued growth, driven by innovation and investment in technology.
Action required for key challenges:
In the wake of the pandemic and budgetary cuts by its main client, IPAA experienced a significant drop in revenue. Its events and professional development programs, key revenue drivers, were either cancelled or moved online, resulting in further operational strain. Staff hours were reduced, and the organisation faced an existential crisis. To address this, the IPAA Board called for urgent action, commissioning an external review by Sprouta working with CEO Madeleine Culbert to lead a bold transformation plan to turn around the declining organisation.
An Association with Impact:
The Institute of Public Administration Australia (IPAA) NSW Division is a professional association serving those in the NSW public sector. Its goal is to build the capabilities, confidence, and connections of its members through an arrangement of professional development programmes, events, and thought leadership initiatives. IPAA had weathered decades of changes in government, sector sizes, and operational structures. However, between 2019 and 2020, it faced an unprecedented challenge when COVID-19 disrupted its operations, bringing significant challenges.
Financial Turnaround and Growth:
Sprouta partnered with IPAA NSW's CEO to lead a bold transformation focused on government clients' evolving needs. Four Sprouta partners supported key phases, including business model changes, restructuring, leadership coaching, and capability building. The transformation led to a significant financial turnaround and membership growth, and Agile ways of working. New products, like virtual masterclasses and innovative programs, were launched. The CEO’s re-energised leadership and a high-performing team drove IPAA’s success, resulting in a 154% return on assets within 12 months. IPAA is now focused on growth, investing in technology and client-centred services.
