Warehouse worker in safety gear inspecting packaged inventory with a clipboard in a distribution center, highlighting facility management, inventory control, logistics, and operational efficiency.

Women in Facilities Management: Empowering female leaders in the industry 

With women constituting 51% of the population, representation in Facility Management services is essential to building a more diverse, people-centered industry.With women constituting 51% of the population, representation in Facility Management services is essential to building a more diverse, people-centered industry.

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Women in Facilities Management: empowering female leaders in the industry

Headshot of Kelsey Hirsch, MCR - Managing Vice President, Sodexo
Kelsey Hirsch, MCRManaging Vice President, Sodexo

Why women matter in Facilities Management

As a woman in Facility Management services (FM), I’ve found that diversity of thought is incredibly important in the industry. However, currently women only make up 25% of facility managers in North America – and that is the highest percentage of gender diversity in FM worldwide!

As we reflect on this statistic and think about the impactful, vibrant discussions that took place during the IFMA annual tradeshow, I'm inspired to share some insights into the pivotal role that women play in FM and shed some light on empowering women in FM directly correlates to the evolving trends in the industry.

How the FM industry is evolving

Facility Management is changing to meet the needs of today's workforce.
Today, organizations are designing workplaces beyond the building. Workplaces  that are an investment in people and culture.

 

At Sodexo, workplace experience strategies are designed to reflect the diversity of customers and support each client's mission. Leaders can best serve organizations by recognizing that people — not office buildings — are the true heart of businesses.

Strong workplace experience strategy  starts with Sodexo.

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Why women should consider a career in FM

As women, our experiences and perspectives should be equally represented across all career fields, including FM. The richness of our collective experiences enhances every field, and Facilities Management is no exception. Here’s just a few reasons I encourage women to consider a career in FM: 

  • A people-first career

    FM is about serving people as much as serving assets. For those passionate about improving employee experiences, it offers a meaningful and rewarding career path.

  • Representation matters

    As women, we  make up 51% of the population, making representation in Facility Management essential. Diversity in  perspective strengthens both individual organizations and the industry as a whole.

  • Opportunities for growth

    Facility Management roles offer expanding leadership opportunities for professionals who can combine operational expertise with people-centered thinking.

Advice for women growing their FM careers

Success in FM is built through continuous learning, mentorship and collaboration. Learning from experienced professionals provides valuable insight into how facilities managers best support their customers. If you're entering or advancing in the field:

  • Find a mentor who can share practical experience and guidance
  • Learn by observing experienced leaders
  • Seek opportunities to shadow managers or technical experts
  • Stay curious and continue developing your skills

Ready to build your career in FM  with Sodexo?

Explore open roles

Build your network. Build your future.

As we continue to encourage women pursuing careers in FM, I want to challenge you to seize every opportunity to learn, grow, and support one another. Together, we are shaping a future where women not only thrive in  Facility Management services careers, but also create a brighter future for the industry as a whole.

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