Why Custodial and Maintenance Teams are Your Greatest Asset | Michael Manning

Michael Manning, a seasoned facilities management professional who currently serves as the Facilities Manager at Omega Optical, shares his invaluable insights on transforming a facilities department from a cost center into a key driver of business strategy. Michael takes us on a journey from the boiler room to the boardroom, detailing how effective communication, data-driven decisions, and proactive planning can elevate the role of any facilities team. He discusses the critical importance of building a strong, empowered team founded on trust and advocacy, shares gripping stories of handling on-site emergencies, and offers practical advice on everything from implementing a CMMS to championing real-world sustainability initiatives that make a tangible impact. Takeaways:Advocate for Your Team in the Boardroom: Don't just ask for a new boiler; present the data. Use maintenance records and invoices to build a business case that shows the long-term value of preventative maintenance and crucial upgrades, turning your department into a strategic partner.Build Trust First, Make Changes Later: When taking over a new team, spend time observing and listening before implementing changes. Announce that you trust their expertise and are there to make their jobs easier. This builds immediate goodwill and opens lines of communication.Involve Your Team in Change: When a change is necessary, bring the affected team members into the conversation early. Explain the "why" behind the decision and ask for their input to ensure a smoother transition and greater buy-in.Create a "Macro View" During Emergencies: In a crisis, your most important job as a leader is to step back. Trust your trained team to handle the immediate cleanup and focus your energy on coordinating the next steps, like scheduling cleaning crews, managing communications, and mitigating further damage.Champion Your Unseen Heroes: Make a conscious effort to introduce your custodial, grounds, and maintenance staff to upper management. Highlighting their contributions and years of institutional knowledge ensures they feel seen, valued, and appreciated.Seek Out Knowledge Relentlessly: You don't need to be an expert in everything. When an HVAC tech or an electrician is on-site, ask questions. Show genuine interest in what they do. This not only broadens your own knowledge base but also builds stronger relationships with your vendors.Quote of the Show:"The more information that the board members or even the CEO or the top executive level know, the better you can prepare and do that preventative maintenance."Links:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-manning-8a033a16b/ Email: [email protected] Website: https://omega-optical.com/ Facility Rockstars is sponsored by Kaloutas, operating the way you operate in order to make your life easier. Learn more at: https://www.kaloutas.com