Announcement: Board Restructure

July 1, 2025
Kolkata, India

The Indian Sport Management Association (INSMA), India’s premier body dedicated to the development and professionalisation of sport management, is pleased to announce a significant leadership restructure aimed at strengthening its organisational strategy and impact.

As part of this transition, Dr. Sandhya Manjunath has been appointed as the new General Secretary of INSMA. Dr. Manjunath brings a wealth of experience in sport governance, policy development and academic leadership, and her appointment signals a renewed focus on innovation, inclusivity, and education in sport management across India.

Concurrently, Mr. Arup Soans, who has served as General Secretary since INSMA’s inception, will transition into the newly created role of Chief Executive Officer (CEO). In this strategic capacity, Mr. Soans will focus on expanding INSMA’s national and international partnerships, driving organisational growth and strengthening its role as a thought leader in sport management.

Speaking on the transition, Mr. Soans said: “This marks a new chapter for INSMA. With Dr. Manjunath stepping in as General Secretary, I am confident we are well-positioned to take our vision to the next level. Her passion for the sector and commitment to excellence will be invaluable as we continue to elevate sport management standards in India”.

Dr. Manjunath added: “I am honored to take on this role and contribute to INSMA’s mission of shaping the future of sport management in India. To realise India’s global sporting aspirations, we must first invest in the minds that manage the movement. INSMA stands at the intersection of knowledge and practice, facilitating a platform where sport management education meets national ambition”.

Furthermore as a part of the restructure, the roles of Vice President (ESG), Executive Members (Institutional, Corporate and Student) have been eliminated and these roles will be reprised within the Executive Leadership Team.

The restructure reflects INSMA’s commitment to adaptive leadership and long-term strategic planning as it prepares for its next phase of impact in India’s evolving sport ecosystem.