Facilities manager
What is a facilities manager?
The facilities manager is in charge of all the services that support a building once construction is completed to ensure functionality of the built environment.
These can include property management as well as areas such as health and safety, utilities, services, relocation and strategy planning. They ensure that an organisation has the most suitable working environment for its employees and their activities.
Becoming facilities manager
A facilities manager will need to be good communicators as the job involves working with a range of professionals. You will also need to be aware of how a building is constructed.
For a job in facilities management you will need a relevant degree, graduate or postgraduate, which is recognised by the British Institute of Facilities Management.
The course will often cover quality management, space planning, legal studies, IT and property management.
If from another background then work experience in construction is necessary for a position in facilities management.
Salary expectations
A graduate facilities manager at entry-level can expect to earn between £17,000 - £22,000, according to 2008 date.
Salaries rise with experience and vary according to sector, function and location with the highest in and around London and the South East and in graduate training schemes.
Achieving chartered status will result in higher pay. Senior facilities managers may earn £26,000 - £35,000 or up to £60,000 if they have UK-wide responsibilities. Directors may earn over £75,000.
For more information visit the British Institute of Facilities Management or the Chartered Institute of Building.