What are the skills and competencies required for FM to lead and manage sustainability projects?

1 Sustainability frameworks and standards

One of the first steps for FM professionals to lead and manage sustainability projects is to understand the different frameworks and standards that guide and measure sustainability performance. These include international and national standards, such as ISO 14000, LEED, BREEAM, and Green Star, as well as industry-specific guidelines, such as the IFMA Sustainability Facility Professional (SFP) credential and the GRESB Real Estate Assessment. By familiarizing themselves with these frameworks and standards, FM professionals can identify the best practices and benchmarks for their projects, as well as communicate their results and achievements to stakeholders.

2 Stakeholder engagement and communication

Another essential skill for FM professionals to lead and manage sustainability projects is stakeholder engagement and communication. Stakeholders are any individuals or groups that have an interest or influence in the project, such as clients, owners, occupants, contractors, suppliers, regulators, and the community. FM professionals need to engage and communicate with stakeholders effectively, to understand their needs and expectations, to align their objectives and values, to build trust and collaboration, and to report on progress and outcomes. Stakeholder engagement and communication can involve various methods and tools, such as surveys, workshops, newsletters, dashboards, and feedback mechanisms.

3 Project management and problem-solving

A third key skill for FM professionals to lead and manage sustainability projects is project management and problem-solving. Project management involves planning, organizing, executing, monitoring, and controlling the project activities, resources, risks, and quality, to ensure that the project meets its scope, budget, schedule, and objectives. Problem-solving involves identifying, analyzing, and resolving the challenges and issues that arise during the project, using creative and critical thinking, as well as technical and analytical skills. FM professionals need to apply project management and problem-solving skills to manage the complexity and uncertainty of sustainability projects, as well as to deliver innovative and effective solutions.

4 Data analysis and decision-making

A fourth important skill for FM professionals to lead and manage sustainability projects is data analysis and decision-making. Data analysis involves collecting, processing, interpreting, and presenting the data that is relevant to the project, such as energy consumption, waste generation, carbon emissions, water usage, and occupant satisfaction. Decision-making involves using the data to make informed and rational choices that support the project goals and strategies, as well as the stakeholder interests and preferences. FM professionals need to use data analysis and decision-making skills to evaluate the performance and impact of their projects, as well as to identify opportunities and areas for improvement.

5 Leadership and teamwork

A fifth essential skill for FM professionals to lead and manage sustainability projects is leadership and teamwork. Leadership involves setting the vision and direction for the project, inspiring and motivating others to follow and contribute, and demonstrating ethical and responsible behavior. Teamwork involves working cooperatively and collaboratively with others, respecting and valuing diversity, sharing knowledge and skills, and resolving conflicts. FM professionals need to use leadership and teamwork skills to create a positive and productive culture for their projects, as well as to foster a sense of ownership and accountability among their team members and stakeholders.

6 Continuous learning and development

A sixth and final skill for FM professionals to lead and manage sustainability projects is continuous learning and development. Continuous learning and development involves seeking and acquiring new knowledge and skills, as well as updating and enhancing existing ones, to keep up with the changing trends and demands of sustainability. FM professionals need to use continuous learning and development skills to stay relevant and competitive in their field, as well as to adapt and improve their practices and outcomes. Continuous learning and development can involve various sources and methods, such as research, publications, courses, webinars, podcasts, mentoring, and networking.