There’s a wide range of issues facing the FM industry over the next few years, from legislative changes to sustainability, and facilities managers will have plenty to keep them busy in navigating these challenges. FM Director spoke to Head of FM and Property Management at phs Group, Ryan Farnworth to find out what he thinks lies ahead.
“Creating ESG policies and practices as well as delivering on them is a leading priority within the FM sector over the next year, and far beyond too,” Farnworth said.
“As well as working on this in-house, facilities managers will be leaning on their supply chain for support around their Scope 3 emissions. It’s vital that FMs work with suppliers that have comprehensive measurement methodologies to quantify Scope 3 emissions, tracking them throughout the value chain to identify hotspots and prioritise reduction efforts. It’s also key to utilise data from suppliers, customers, and industry standards to ensure accuracy and transparency, and this can be a mammoth task for an FM, if they’re not working with the right type of supplier.”
So, what should FMs do? “The key to managing this challenge effectively is to work with other suppliers who actively engage with their own supply chain to drive emission reductions, and collaborate to implement sustainable practices, energy-efficient technologies, and low-carbon alternatives,” said Farnworth.
“At phs we encourage our suppliers to adopt carbon accounting systems and report on their emissions so that together we can make a difference. By prioritising collaboration, transparency, and continuous improvement with our suppliers to drive meaningful change within our supply chain, we can make a tangible impact.”
Social value is another crucial issue which can support industry challenges according to Farnworth. He said: “Recruitment is harder than it’s ever been, and as a result – staff retention is critical. Prioritising employee wellbeing within this context is key, and FMs are working hard to create unique, innovative, inviting, sustainable and safe working environments in a post-Covid, hybrid-working world. Candidates increasingly want to work for companies that are known for more than just what they do day to day, and valuable partnerships with the third sector can elevate their offering. From our experience, our male incontinence and period equality campaigns and thought leadership focus have been incredibly popular with our staff and customers alike.”
