Navigating the Future: Leadership and Strategy in Facility Management

In the intricate realm of Facility Management (FM), professionals constantly grapple with the evolving demands of the built environment. Acknowledging the multifaceted nature of this field, the International Facility Management Association (IFMA) has meticulously outlined 11 competency areas. Among the three distinguished FM credentials offered by IFMA, the Facility Management Professional™ (FMP®), Sustainability Facility Professional® (SFP®), and Certified Facility Manager® (CFM®), the emphasis on leadership and strategy stands out as a beacon guiding professionals through the complexities of their roles.

Unveiling the FM Credentials:

1. Facility Management Professional™ (FMP®): Positioned as the foundational credential, the FMP® program is designed for both FM professionals and industry suppliers aiming to deepen their understanding of core FM topics deemed critical by employers. The comprehensive curriculum covers operations and maintenance, project management, finance and business, and leadership and strategy.
2. Sustainability Facility Professional® (SFP®): Geared towards facilities managers and like-minded professionals, the SFP® credential leads the way in developing sustainable FM strategies. With a focus on environmental and social responsibility, this credential addresses the emerging trends in facilities management.
3. Certified Facility Manager® (CFM®): As the premier certification for experienced FM professionals, the CFM® credential goes beyond assessing knowledge and skills. It delves into proficiency across all FM competency areas through a rigorous examination process.

FMP Credential Program: Elevating Fundamental Knowledge:

IFMA’s Facility Management Professional (FMP) credential is an assessment-based certificate program, rooted in a foundation established by IFMA's global job task analysis (GJTA). Continuously refreshed to align with current industry standards, the FMP Credential Program ensures that professionals are equipped with the knowledge and skills demanded by today's global employers.

Leadership and Strategy in FM: A Vital Dimension:

The Leadership and Strategy course within the FMP program is a testament to the evolving nature of FM roles. Facility managers find themselves in dual leadership roles – steering the FM organization internally and influencing external decisions. This course equips them with the tools and concepts needed to integrate people, place, and process, aligning facility portfolios with organizational missions and adapting to societal expectations.

Benefits of Leadership Skills in FM:

Facility managers who invest in developing leadership skills unlock a myriad of benefits. From fostering shared visions and earning trust to seamlessly integrating efforts across the entire organization, leadership skills contribute to accountability, ethics, and sustainability.

Conclusion:

In the dynamic landscape of Facility Management, leadership and strategy emerge as indispensable elements for success. IFMA's commitment to providing globally recognized credentials underscores the importance of staying ahead in an ever-evolving profession. As facility managers navigate the future, equipped with a toolbox of concepts and ideas, they not only enhance their individual careers but also contribute to the advancement and sustainability of the FM profession as a whole.