Facilities Management
Facilities management (or FM) is a professional management discipline focused upon the efficient and effective delivery of support services for the organizations that it serves. It serves to ensure the integration of people, systems, place, process, and technology.
A facilities manager is the ultimate organiser, making sure that a workplace meets the needs of employees by managing all of the required services
They are responsible for the management of services and processes that support the core business of an organisation. Facilities managers make sure organisations have the most suitable working environment for employees and their activities. They are involved in both strategic planning and day-to-day operations, particularly in relation to buildings and premises.
Responsibilities could include:
Building and grounds maintenance
Cleaning
Catering and vending
Health and safety
Procurement and contract management
Security
Space management
Utilities and communications infrastructure
A facilities manager can be employed in all sectors and industries and the diversity of the work is reflected in the range of job titles, for example operations, estates, technical services, asset or property manager.
Facilities management apprenticeships
There are four types of facilities management apprenticeships available.School leavers could do Intermediate Apprenticeships as facilities services operatives, or Advanced Apprenticeships in roles like trainee/assistant facilities manager and facilities services team leader.
For those with A-levels, there are Higher Apprenticeships in roles like facilities manager soft services (in-house or outsourced), building services manager, senior or regional facilities manager and senior or regional building services manager.
At Level 4, you could be the manager in charge of many services on a site and be tasked with supervising other staff. At level 5 this could even extend to heading up the services for a multi-site operation.
Facilities management apprentices can also apply for associate membership to the British Institute of Facilities Management (BIFM).
