Connected FM

In this episode, Director of IFMA EMEA, Lara Paemen, interviews one of IFMA's Global Board of Directors and Vice Chairman of EFS Group, Tariq Chauhan, about the rapidly evolving facility management landscape in the Middle East. They discuss major trends reshaping the GCC region — from accelerated market growth and large-scale investment in the built environment to the rise of technology, ESG frameworks and the shift from O&M to strategic FM. Tariq also highlights the region’s skills gap, the need for upskilling, and what international FM professionals should understand when entering this dynamic, fast-growing market.00:00 Introduction00:43 Discussion with Tariq Chauhan01:35 Tariq Chauhan's Role and Experience02:25 Current State of Facility Management in GCC03:04 Technological Advancements and ESG in Middle East03:46 Global Comparisons and Skill Deficit06:26 Challenges and Opportunities in GCC14:36 Future of Facility Management in GCC15:42 Advice for International FM Professionals17:45 Conclusion Connect with Us:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ifmaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/InternationalFacilityManagementAssociation/Twitter: https://twitter.com/IFMAInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ifma_hq/YouTube: https://youtube.com/ifmaglobalVisit us at https://ifma.org

How much do you really know about the air circulating in your building right now?In this episode, host Edward Wagoner sits down with Dr. Joseph Allen, associate professor at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, director of Harvard’s Healthy Buildings Program and and co-author of Healthy Buildings: How Indoor Spaces Can Make You Sick—or Keep You Well, to explore why indoor air quality is becoming a critical focus for today’s facility managers. Dr. Allen breaks down the science behind ventilation, filtration and cognitive function, and shares practical steps leaders can take to create healthier, higher-performing spaces.00:00 Introduction00:55 Interview with Dr. Joseph Allen01:54 The Role of Facility Managers in Health and Business04:30 The Science Behind Indoor Air Quality07:00 Practical Steps for Better Air Quality12:41 Empowering Consumers with Air Quality Data15:05 Future of Indoor Air Quality Monitoring18:14 Public Health Career Advice22:57 Rapid Fire Questions26:30 ConclusionResources Mentioned:Book: Healthy Buildings: How Indoor Spaces Can Make You Sick―or Keep You WellDr. Joseph Allen on LinkedIn Connect with Us:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ifmaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/InternationalFacilityManagementAssociation/Twitter: https://twitter.com/IFMAInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ifma_hq/YouTube: https://youtube.com/ifmaglobalVisit us at https://ifma.org

What will facility management look like in 2026, and how does that future differ across regions?'In this episode of the Connected FM podcast, host Wayne Whitzell, Second Vice Chair of IFMA’s Global Board of Directors, is joined by IFMA Global Board of Directors Chair Christa Dodoo and facility management leader Maria Gonzalez-Burgos for a global conversation on the trends, challenges and opportunities shaping the profession worldwide. The conversation examines how technology adoption, workforce skills, and leadership expectations are evolving differently across regions, while reinforcing the universal importance of soft skills, data, and strategic thinking as FM professionals prepare for 2026 and beyond.00:00 Introduction01:28 Meet the Hosts and Guests04:19 Global Trends in Facility Management05:46 Regional Insights: Africa and Middle East10:44 Regional Insights: Latin America16:02 Challenges and Opportunities in Facility Management22:44 The Future of Facility Management39:02 IFMA's Role in Global Facility Management44:22 Conclusion Connect with Us:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ifmaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/InternationalFacilityManagementAssociation/Twitter: https://twitter.com/IFMAInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ifma_hq/YouTube: https://youtube.com/ifmaglobalVisit us at https://ifma.org

As we close out 2025, we’re revisiting one of our most popular episodes of the year, a timely conversation on artificial intelligence and its role in the built environment. Lorri Rowlandson, Senior Vice President of Strategy and Innovation at BGIS, outlines a three-layer approach to AI integration: individual-level desktop AI for job reengineering, operational AI for internal efficiencies, and client-driven AI for service improvement.Lorri emphasizes the importance of responsible innovation, employee engagement and continuous learning as AI continues to reshape the FM profession.00:00 Introduction to Responsible AI Usage00:25 Welcome to Connected FM Podcast00:51 Revisiting AI in Facility Management01:41 Strategic Guide to AI in Facilities Management04:13 Three-Layer AI Integration Approach05:13 Desktop AI: Empowering Individuals09:21 Operational AI: Driving Internal Efficiencies12:20 Client-Driven AI: Enhancing Service Value14:32 Conclusion and Final Thoughts15:46 Podcast Closing RemarksThis episode is sponsored by ODP Business Solutions! Connect with Us:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ifmaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/InternationalFacilityManagementAssociation/Twitter: https://twitter.com/IFMAInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ifma_hq/YouTube: https://youtube.com/ifmaglobalVisit us at https://ifma.org

In this episode of the Connected FM podcast, host Christopher Bourke speaks with three students from The Hague University of Applied Sciences — Yaslin Schafthuizen, Mauro Kasirin, and Jorinde Drees — about their perspectives on sustainability. The discussion covers their definitions of sustainability, their awareness of sustainable practices fostered within their university, and personal anecdotes about their contributions to sustainable projects. They emphasize the importance of inclusivity and responsibility, challenges such as the higher costs of sustainable choices, and the need for global policies to support sustainable practices.00:00 Introduction01:19 Meet the Students from The Hague University01:48 Defining Sustainability02:38 Sustainability Practices at The Hague University03:32 Challenges and Solutions in Sustainability07:39 Student Contributions to Sustainable Projects08:37 Future of Sustainability and Student Involvement12:01 Practical Tips for Sustainable Living14:09 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsThis episode is sponsored by ODP Business Solutions! Connect with Us:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ifmaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/InternationalFacilityManagementAssociation/Twitter: https://twitter.com/IFMAInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ifma_hq/YouTube: https://youtube.com/ifmaglobalVisit us at https://ifma.org

What does AI really mean for the future of facility management, and how can FMs stay essential as technology accelerates?In this episode, host Edward Wagoner talks with Brian Haines, IFMA Global Influencer and longtime real estate and technology strategist. Brian breaks down why AI is only as good as the data behind it, how natural-language tools are transforming daily FM work, and why maintaining professional expertise is more important than ever.They explore the growing convergence of IT and operational technology, the potential for autonomous buildings, and the upskilling FMs need to stay ahead. Brian also shares advice for veterans, young professionals and anyone entering the field. Plus his outlook on how AI will shape the future of facility management.00:00 Introduction 00:53 Exploring AI in Facility Management01:44 Interview with Brian Haines05:09 The Role of Data in AI09:24 AI's Impact on Facility Management17:23 Autonomous Building Control25:09 Veterans in Facility Management35:42 Future of Facility Management38:36 ConclusionSponsor:This episode is sponsored by ODP Business Solutions! Connect with Us:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ifmaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/InternationalFacilityManagementAssociation/Twitter: https://twitter.com/IFMAInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ifma_hq/YouTube: https://youtube.com/ifmaglobalVisit us at https://ifma.org

Jean-Pierre Segers and Jos Duchamps of Brains and Trees emphasize the critical role of learning and development in facility management. They discuss the diverse educational backgrounds of facility managers and stress the need for ongoing training to bridge skill gaps. Highlighting programs by IFMA, such as the Facility Management Professional Program, they underline the importance of combining managerial, technical, and emerging technology skills. They also touch on the impact of regulations and the shifting job market post-COVID. The conversation concludes with a call for lifelong learning and certification to ensure the future success of facility management professionals.00:00 Introduction to Facility Management 00:58 Meet the Experts: Jean Pierre Segers and Jos Duchamps 02:10 The Importance of Training in Facility Management 03:26 Bridging the Skills Gap 06:06 IFMA's Training Programs 07:54 Sustainability and Regulation in Facility Management 08:58 The Evolving Job Market and Lifelong Learning 11:19 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsSponsor:This episode is sponsored by ODP Business Solutions! Connect with Us:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ifmaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/InternationalFacilityManagementAssociation/Twitter: https://twitter.com/IFMAInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ifma_hq/YouTube: https://youtube.com/ifmaglobalVisit us at https://ifma.org

In this episode, IBM’s Kal Gyimesi and Vishal Rane explore how AI is redefining efficiency in asset lifecycle management. They share why strong data governance is the foundation for successful AI adoption — noting that only 25% of AI projects meet ROI expectations due to disconnected systems. The conversation breaks down different types of AI, including generative AI, machine learning, chat assistance and intelligent agents, and how each drives smarter decision-making. They also emphasize the need for continuous testing, monitoring and responsible deployment to ensure reliability and long-term value across operations.00:00 Introduction to AI in Facility Management01:38 The Hype and Reality of AI03:10 Types of AI in Organizations04:34 Asset Lifecycle Management07:18 Data Governance and AI Implementation08:31 Corporate Real Estate and Digital Transformation12:09 Conclusion and Key TakeawaysThis episode is sponsored by ODP Business Solutions! Connect with Us:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ifmaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/InternationalFacilityManagementAssociation/Twitter: https://twitter.com/IFMAInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ifma_hq/YouTube: https://youtube.com/ifmaglobalVisit us at https://ifma.org

In this episode, IFMA’s Director of Research, Matt Tucker, and IFMA EMEA's Managing Director, Lara Paemen, dive into the latest global trends shaping facility management (FM). They explore IFMA’s key research initiatives — from the circular economy to the evolving role of FM analysts — and discuss how regional differences across Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Latin America influence sustainability goals, technological adoption and education in the FM profession.00:00 Introduction and Welcome01:27 Meet the Hosts02:26 Global Trends in Facility Management04:06 Circular Economy in Facility Management07:26 The Rise of the FM Analyst09:30 Upcoming Research Projects12:31 Regional Highlights: Europe, Middle East, and Africa19:16 Conclusion and FarewellSponsor:This episode is sponsored by ODP Business Solutions! Connect with Us:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ifmaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/InternationalFacilityManagementAssociation/Twitter: https://twitter.com/IFMAInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ifma_hq/YouTube: https://youtube.com/ifmaglobalVisit us at https://ifma.org

In this episode of IFMA's Connected FM podcast, host Edward Wagoner interviews Dr. Winnie Kwofie, a leader in facility management higher education. They discuss the importance of visibility in the profession, the underrepresentation of women and the need for diverse perspectives in leadership roles. Winnie shares her personal journey and the significance of storytelling in advocating for the profession. They also touch on cultural perceptions of facilities and the importance of creating inclusive environments for women in the industry.00:00 Snippet00:24 Welcome to Connected FM Podcast01:14 Introducing Today's Guest: Dr. Winnie Kwofie03:11 Dr. Winnie's Journey and Insights05:16 Challenges and Opportunities in Facilities Management09:15 Global Perspectives on Facilities Management19:35 Uplifting Stories and Leadership26:11 Rapid Fire Questions with Dr. Winnie33:46 ConclusionSponsor:This episode is sponsored by ODP Business Solutions!  Connect with Us:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ifmaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/InternationalFacilityManagementAssociation/Twitter: https://twitter.com/IFMAInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ifma_hq/YouTube: https://youtube.com/ifmaglobalVisit us at https://ifma.org