SPRING 2024 // Canadian Government Executive / 21 Sponsored Content summarize information and document decisions, the best Chief Facilities Officers can skillfully convey issues and the implications using engaging visuals and plain language. Daily Operational Considerations With a solid foundation of trust and effective communications, the Chief Facilities Officer can work strategically with the C-suite. They can help leadership view an optimized portfolio as an asset contributing to organizational priorities, rather than merely a cost center. Initiatives can be prioritized and resourced, and roadmaps can be created to guide long-term efforts in the built environment. However, it is crucial not to overlook daily operational matters, as they can significantly impact the organization’s reputation and strategic influence in the C-suite. Operational necessities, such as service-related maintenance and repairs, must be addressed through a robust service model to maintain the confidence of senior leadership. This is particularly true in environments where leadership only engages the facilities function by exception, for instance when something is broken. Accolades do not pour in when the lights are on and the water flows from the taps, no matter how much skill and effort might go into ensuring that building occupants get safe and reliable power and water. Regardless of how strong the facilities program may be, service-related maintenance and repairs are what make reputations that can support or detract from strategic influence in the C-suite. To maintain the confidence of senior leadership, it is recommended to invest time and effort to establish and monitor a strong service model to address operational requirements. Exceptional Circumstances While the Chief Facilities Officer should absolutely oversee daily operational services, they would not be expected to execute them. This expectation is no different than that of any other executive. Exceptions to this rule arise during crises such as natural disasters or emergencies. In these instances, the Chief Facilities Officer’s enhanced situational awareness and leadership are critical. These moments provide opportunities for facilities organizations to demonstrate their value to the broader organization and make informed decisions in a pressure-packed environment. In Summary The Chief Facilities Officer deserves a place in the C-suite. Earning and maintaining that place depends on their ability to gain the confidence of senior leadership through effective communication of risks and opportunities. Using data to demonstrate operational improvements and employing effective service models day-to-day and during a crisis reinforces the Chief Facilities Officer’s strategic value to the broader organization. Jonathan Burbee is the Director of Business Development Canada with Gordian. He is a former provincial government Executive Director and senior military engineer for multiple NATO and Canadian Armed Forces formations. He also serves as a Governor with the Real Estate Institute of British Columbia Board of Governors. To maintain the confidence of senior leadership, it is recommended to invest time and effort to establish and monitor a strong service model to address operational requirements. PERSPECTIVE
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NDI0Mzg=