The Role of the Facility Manager

Facility Management contributes to the delivery of strategic and operational objectives at a corporate level, while also providing a safe and efficient work environment on a day-to-day basis.

It is essential to the performance of any business whatever its size and scope. Facility managers are expected to contribute to the overall business strategy by providing cost savings and return on investments.

The function of facility maintenance may be performed in-house by corporate staffed department or by an outside firm specializing in facility maintenance and management. The latter has become more common as the scope and complexity of facility management has exceeded the capability of many building occupants. The way in which the facility management department is organized and run will have a profound effect on productivity, motivation, recruitment/retention and general job satisfaction. As for the management practice, success comes from leadership and communication.

There are numerous factors that drive the increasing complexity of facility management. For instance, modern facilities have become larger and more complicated than in the past, often relying on computerized and electronic support systems that require specific expertise to operate and repair. Along with new technology, efficiency pressures and government regulations there also has been an expansion of the facility management role. Facility managers today are highly trained and educated and must wear several hats. Depending on the size of the portfolio, he or she will likely be responsible for directing a facility management and maintenance staff in addition to overseeing the important duties related to engineering and architectural services, occupational health and safety, hiring subcontractors, maintaining computer and telecommunication services and even sometimes buying, selling, or leasing real estate or office space.

At the end of the day, it should be noted that businesses have rising expectations for the level of service and value their facility managers provide. Large facility managers now routinely use integrated computer systems that track building functions, space management, work projects, staffing, inventory and finances. These systems enable facility managers to bear a wealth of knowledge about their physical plants in order to improve efficiency and keep operating costs down while maintaining or improving the quality of building resources and services. Successful organizations should approach facility management as an integral part of their overall, strategic plan.

Harrison Contracting Company