Over the past few months, Rama Gundavarapu has been engaging in the Village Catering and Operations tender.
It has provided him with a platform to interface with various stakeholders and by building on insights from past contracts, he has strategically implemented lessons learned and identified avenues for cost savings.
As the tender nears the award stage, the culmination of these efforts stands as a noteworthy professional highlight for Rama.
By itself, this would be enough of an achievement. However, it has made even more impressive when we remember that it was less than 20 years ago that Rama moved to Australia, with English as not his second, but his third language.
After almost two decades, Rama is proud to call Australia home and we hope his BCI family enjoys learning more about his journey.
Question: What does your role at BCI involve and when did you start?
Answer: I started with BCI in July 2022 as Procurement Officer and within 12 months I took an opportunity in the contracts team as Contracts Administrator. My role has involved the management and awarding of noteworthy supply and services contracts, which includes overseeing the entire spectrum of contract management. This comprehensive responsibility encompasses the ongoing Mardie Village Catering, Cleaning, and Operation services. Throughout this process, my unwavering focus has been on achieving value for money, diligently identifying and capitalising on cost-saving opportunities. Ensuring the seamless execution of contracts, my approach is rooted in efficiency, strategic planning, and a commitment to delivering optimal outcomes.
Q: What do you like about your job at BCI?
A: Collaborating with individuals from diverse backgrounds has exposed me to a wealth of global cultures, various working dynamics, and the opportunity for flexible working conditions. Moreover, the shared joy of watching cricket in the kitchen adds a delightful and communal touch to the overall work experience.
Q: What is a time in your life when you have been proud of yourself?
A: My journey in Australia commenced in 2005 when I decided to pursue my Masters in Engineering in Adelaide. At the time, English was my third language, adding an extra layer of challenge to adapting to a new environment. Initially, I faced the typical struggles associated with cultural differences and found myself lacking in some essential life skills, such as cooking, cleaning, washing, etc. The culture shock that accompanied my move to Australia became a catalyst for self-improvement. Determined to overcome these obstacles, I dedicated myself to learning and acquiring the necessary skills, and over the course of the past 19 years, my journey has been nothing short of incredible. During my time in Australia, I underwent a transformative process of self-discovery evolving into a more capable and resilient individual. Australia, which was initially a foreign land, has now become my home. In this beautiful place, I have not only cultivated a successful career but also built a fulfilling life. Reflecting on my experiences, I take pride in the perseverance and determination that fuelled my adaptation to a new life.
Q: What were some of the biggest cultural differences you noticed when your first moved to Australia?
A: The food in Australia is vastly different to what I was used to eating. Nearly 20 years later, my palate has changed so much that I now love eating foods from different cultures.
Q: And what do you now love most about calling Australia home?
A: The thing I love most about calling Australia home is the people. I love that people in Australia are so committed to diversity and mateship.
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“Salt of the Earth” is a fortnightly series where we get to know our dedicated team members.
To see the current opportunities at BCI Minerals, please visit our careers page: https://www.bciminerals.com.au/careers.html