Today’s guest is an inspiring leader with an incredible career path, going from the Colombian Navy to one of the largest global PR firms to now managing top-notch facilities in Massachusetts. Diego Areiza is a Facilities Manager at ISS and a Maintenance Management Specialist in the US Army. Diego joins Host Jay Culbert for a fantastic conversation about how to manage the people-first nature of facility management, what technological solutions make a real positive impact on your day-to-day operations, and what facilities leaders need to know in order to succeed with the changing workforce. Takeaways:Put people first. The success of any operation hinges on the team. Support, empower, and trust your people to do their best work.Empower through delegation. Find the right people for the job, then step back and allow them the space to innovate and execute.Embrace failure as a learning opportunity. Mistakes are inevitable but learning from them is where growth happens for you and your team.Maintain open lines of communication with your team and others. Weekly or bi-weekly meetings with clients and vendors can streamline operations and foster better partnerships.Use technology to enhance operations. Whether it's a CMMS for maintenance management or CRM systems for client relations, technology can greatly assist in productivity.Treat leadership as a continuous learning journey. Reflect on your actions, seek improvement, and stay humble.Develop a clear succession plan. This ensures that the team can continue to operate effectively, even in your absence.Focus on clear goals and expectations, but allow your team the autonomy to achieve these in their own way. This can lead to innovation and more effective solutions.Always be recruiting. Networking and keeping a talent pool is crucial for quickly filling roles with the right people.Lead with empathy. Understanding and respecting each team member's unique challenges and contributions can create a more cohesive and motivated team.Quote of the Show:“Leadership is a science and it's something you need to study.” - Diego AreizaLinks:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dareizam Personal Website: https://areizadiego.wordpress.com/ ISS Website: https://www.issworld.com/en US Army Website: https://www.army.mil Shoutouts: Maximo: https://www.ibm.com/products/maximo Salesforce: https://www.salesforce.com/ Admiral Rodolfo AmayaWays to Tune In:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0M2XB78b09i5vkWy1eHsxb Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/facility-rockstars/id1729458441 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/60bbc4f3-a123-47ca-9a83-eade102c5859/facility-rockstars Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/facility-rockstars-5616662 YouTube: Facility Rockstars Newsletter: https://subscribe.kaloutas.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

Our distinguished guest for today is Glenn Gould, the Vice President of Sales & Marketing at TC Control Group. With a wealth of experience in marketing, sales, and business development, Glenn shares invaluable insights gained throughout his career. He emphasizes the importance of nurturing the next generation of facility managers and discusses the role of organizations like IFMA and BOMA in professional growth and networking. Glenn also stresses the significance of embracing technology and open protocol systems in facilities management. Additionally, he highlights the importance of fostering internal relationships within organizations, particularly with finance and capital planning teams, to ensure smooth operations and expenditures. Beyond his professional expertise, Glenn shares his passion for mechanical objects such as watches, cars, and tractors, and offers advice for career growth, providing a holistic perspective on the challenges and opportunities in facilities management. Takeaways:Leaders should actively engage in discussions and initiatives that highlight the importance of facility management, emphasizing the need for continuous promotion and recognition of the field to attract the next generation of talent.Joining and actively participating in industry associations like IFMA and BOMA can provide invaluable networking, education, and advocacy opportunities that can empower facility professionals and enhance the industry's overall strength.Prioritize learning about one specific area of pain in your operations. Investing time into understanding and solving a particular issue can bring immense long-term benefits and drive operational efficiency.Cultivating a network of supportive relationships within the industry can foster a culture of accountability and collaboration. Sharing experiences and challenges with peers can lead to innovative solutions and stronger community ties.Leaders have an opportunity to influence the future of facilities management by contributing resources, knowledge, and experiences to technical and vocational education programs. This not only supports the growth of the field but also bridges the gap between academic learning and practical application.Developing strong connections within your organization, especially with finance and capital planning departments, can facilitate smoother project approvals and budget allocations. Understanding each other's needs and constraints can lead to more effective and strategic financial planning.Encouraging a culture that is open to taking calculated risks can lead to discovery and innovation. Leaders should motivate their teams to explore new avenues, challenge the status quo, and embrace changes that could yield significant benefits for their facilities and their careers.Quote of the Show:“Create that cultural accountability and stick to it.” - Glenn Gould“Understand your goals, create a plan, and stick to the plan.” - Glenn Gould“It's a team that gets something done. It's rarely one person that actually executes on a successful plan.” - Glenn GouldLinks:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/glenn-gould-45b19b55 TC Control Group Website: https://www.tccontrols.com Gould Consulting Website: https://consultgould.wixsite.com/gould-consulting Ways to Tune In:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0M2XB78b09i5vkWy1eHsxb Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/facility-rockstars/id1729458441 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/60bbc4f3-a123-47ca-9a83-eade102c5859/facility-rockstars Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/facility-rockstars-5616662 YouTube: https://youtu.be/HacG7PgkkNU Facility Rockstars Newsletter: https://subscribe.kaloutas.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

In this episode, we're joined by Michael Rich, the Senior Manager overseeing Facilities & Lab Infrastructure at Cerevel Therapeutics. Michael offers profound insights into the pivotal role of communication within facility management, particularly within the intricate environments of labs where factors like sound and airflow are paramount. He charts his professional journey, moving from a technician to a senior managerial position, underlining the shift from hands-on duties to strategic leadership and engagement with diverse stakeholders. Michael and host Jay Culbert explore the nuances of overseeing crucial infrastructure in a neurological research environment, addressing aspects like inspections, audits, and the meticulous preparation and documentation essential for operational readiness. Furthermore, Michael shares personal anecdotes, including his transition from semi-professional football to facility management, fostering Huskies, and balancing a professional life with a big family. Stay tuned for valuable lessons on management, communication, and the importance of being prepared for any scenario. Takeaways:Prioritize communication as a central skill in facility management to ensure operations are seamless and teams are well-informed.Utilize shared calendars and views for effective scheduling and coordination among different teams, especially in environments where work impacts multiple areas, like labs and animal facilities.Embrace the use of project management tools, such as CMMS (Computerized Maintenance Management System), to streamline workload and reduce reliance on less formal systems.Prepare for inspections and audits by creating comprehensive binders and conducting practice runs to ensure your team is always audit-ready.Recognize the value of direct experience in your field when hiring. Seek candidates with specific environment experience for more effective integration into specialized settings.Focus on building and sustaining a strong team culture. This can enhance retention, facilitate a sense of belonging, and ensure the team works well together.Acknowledge and adapt to the varied communication preferences of your team and external partners. Whether it’s through email, face-to-face meetings, or phone calls, understanding and accommodating these preferences make communication more effective.Quote of the Show:“More communication is better than less.” - Michael RichLinks:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-rich-cfm-00b06b19a Company website: https://www.cerevel.com Ways to Tune In:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0M2XB78b09i5vkWy1eHsxb Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/facility-rockstars/id1729458441 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/60bbc4f3-a123-47ca-9a83-eade102c5859/facility-rockstars Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/facility-rockstars-5616662 YouTube: https://youtu.be/KsfRi8eTZL0 Facility Rockstars Newsletter: https://subscribe.kaloutas.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

Today, we're excited to introduce Douglas Stokken, the Director of Business Development & Projects at SPACE Buildings Corporation. Established in 1967, SPACE Buildings is a top provider of pre-engineered metal building systems in New England, specializing in Commercial and Industrial projects. They offer comprehensive services from design to maintenance, with expertise in sectors like warehousing, logistics, aviation, and technology. What distinguishes SPACE Buildings is their focus on vertical integration and commitment to client satisfaction.With his extensive experience in project management, business development, and facilities management, Doug shares his journey from an entry position to a leadership role within his company, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning, adaptability, and effective networking. He discusses the significance of listening for leadership, the value of taking on challenging projects to foster growth, and how building strong networks and making strategic introductions can have a lasting impact on business success. Doug also touches on his company's specialization in metal buildings, how this niche market evolved from protecting oil rigs to becoming a versatile construction solution, and the benefits it offers to various industries. Moreover, Doug delves into his personal philosophy of helping others and how it informs his professional approach, enhancing client relationships and creating opportunities for mentorship and collaboration. Takeaways:Adopting a mindset of perpetual learning and adaptability is crucial. Every project and collaboration offers a unique scenario and learning opportunity. Embrace these experiences to expand your knowledge and skill set.Effective delegation within your facilities team can enhance efficiency and clarity. Assign responsibilities based on skills and timelines. This structured approach helps ensure that everyone knows their roles, improving project execution.Listening is foundational to understanding the needs of your team and clients. Listening to all stakeholders, from iron workers to engineers, not only accelerates problem-solving but also fosters a collaborative work environment.Building a plan with contributions from every team member can lead to more innovative and comprehensive solutions. Encourage an inclusive environment where everyone, regardless of their position, feels valued and heard. This approach can significantly impact your team's effectiveness.Regularly auditing and reviewing processes, such as safety protocols and maintenance schedules, is a best practice. This systematic review ensures that your facility's operations are up-to-date, minimizing risks and optimizing performance.Building a broad network can be invaluable, as it allows for easier problem-solving through collaboration. Networking and being open to helping others, even beyond business interests not only solves problems but also builds lasting relationships.Quotes of the Show:“No matter where you sit within the hierarchy of any company, everybody's got to come together. That's how you get velocity.” - Douglas Stokken“Every time you think you've got it solved, you haven't. You always have something left to learn or a nuance of that facet. Always have to be open, always have to be learning.” - Douglas Stokken“We grind on it every day. We hustle on it every day. We make it happen.” - Douglas Stokken“We treat others how we want to be treated and we get a lot of work because we employ those principles.” - Douglas Stokken“Take on something you might not typically do as long as it meets the company's vision and purposes. Take on the hard tasks and do them because that's going to help you grow and evolve.” - Douglas Stokken“Take a challenge, go for it, and really apply what you and your company can do.” - Douglas Stokken“We go above and beyond and give that absolute highest level of client care.” - Douglas Stokken“Experience is one of the greatest teachers.” - Douglas StokkenLinks:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/douglas-stokken-965b476 Website: https://spacebldgs.com Ways to Tune In:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0M2XB78b09i5vkWy1eHsxb Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/facility-rockstars/id1729458441 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/60bbc4f3-a123-47ca-9a83-eade102c5859/facility-rockstars Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/facility-rockstars-5616662 YouTube: https://youtu.be/MiIP7l-7pKU 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

Our special guest today is Michael Zechello, the Manager of Facilities Engineering at MathWorks. With nearly three decades in facility management, Zechello shares his journey from a construction superintendent to a key player in maintaining the infrastructure of critical facilities. He emphasizes the importance of hiring the right staff and creating a supportive team environment. Zechello discusses MathWorks' comprehensive hiring process, the value of a 'buddy system' for new hires, and the company's unique offerings, including free meals and state-of-the-art gym facilities, which contribute to a positive work culture. Challenges like finding qualified HVAC technicians are also addressed. Moreover, Zechello highlights the significance of vendor relationships through quarterly business reviews, offering insights into the collaborative efforts that ensure facility excellence. This episode not only explores best practices in facility management but also underscores the importance of team dynamics and vendor partnerships in creating a successful operational environment. Takeaways:Ensuring you have a competent and trustworthy team is crucial. Invest time in hiring processes that include thorough background checks and interviews. A good team can significantly enhance facility operations and lead to smoother management.Emphasize a rigorous hiring process that may include phone screenings, comprehensive day-long interviews, and interactions with various team members. This ensures candidates are not only technically fit but also align well with the company culture.To facilitate smoother integration and foster a supportive work environment, pair new employees with experienced staff. This can help newcomers navigate the company culture and systems more effectively while promoting camaraderie.Adopting a high standard, akin to a five-star hotel, for the cleanliness and maintenance of your facilities can create a positive impression on clients and a pleasant work environment for employees. Regular maintenance and refresh projects are key.Utilize professional networks like LinkedIn to find potential candidates. This platform can broaden your reach and help you connect with individuals who possess the specific skills and experience your facility management team needs.Offer amenities that support a healthy lifestyle, such as providing healthy food options and access to a fitness center. This not only benefits the physical well-being of your staff but also contributes to a positive and productive work environment.Establishing and maintaining professional relationships can be incredibly beneficial. Whether it's through industry associations like IFMA or past work connections, networking can lead to fruitful partnerships, vendor recommendations, and recruitment opportunities.Quote of the Show:“Our most important customer is our staff.” - Mike ZechelloLinks:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-zechello-8344a5bb Website: https://www.mathworks.com IFMA Boston (Website): https://ifmaboston.org Ways to Tune In:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0M2XB78b09i5vkWy1eHsxb Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/facility-rockstars/id1729458441 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/60bbc4f3-a123-47ca-9a83-eade102c5859/facility-rockstars Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/facility-rockstars-5616662 YouTube: https://youtu.be/sL0PkocP4WoFacility Rockstars is sponsored by Kaloutas, operating the way you operate in order to make your life easier. Learn more at: https://www.kaloutas.com

Today, we are thrilled to have Gabriel Budds, Construction Site Operations Manager at Fluor Corporation, as our esteemed guest. Gabriel shares valuable insights on the importance of nurturing strong relationships, fostering leadership skills, and maximizing project efficiency. He also delves into his approach to project management, effective communication, compliance, and safety within large facilities, highlighting the innovative strategies he utilizes to uphold operational excellence.Beyond his professional endeavors, Gabriel also reveals the creative process behind his passion project, Budds Burner. This venture involves crafting custom hot sauces, offering a glimpse into his journey from cultivating ingredients to developing distinct flavors. Takeaways:Building strong relationships within the facility is vital. Start with a friendly approach to get to know the people you work with. This foundation allows you to rely on others for input, support, and collaboration, making the work environment more conducive and effective. Anticipate potential project roadblocks and constraints early on. Proactively thinking about what could go wrong and discussing potential issues with your team allows for smoother project execution and minimizes surprises. Understand that while having a plan is crucial, being adaptable to changes is equally important. Facilities management often involves unexpected challenges, requiring a flexible approach to project planning and execution. Regularly update and inform your team and stakeholders about ongoing and upcoming projects. Utilize various communication tools to ensure everyone is on the same page, reducing the chances of surprises and misunderstandings. Maintain compliance with internal and external safety, quality, and construction standards. Prepare for audits by ensuring all documents, licenses, and inspections are in order, showcasing your commitment to safety and quality.Work in close collaboration with your team and other departments to complement each other’s efforts. Sharing insights and collaborating on problem-solving can improve overall project outcomes and compliance. Stay open to learning and adopting new methodologies, such as lean construction, to improve your processes. Actively seeking improvement and being willing to adapt to new practices demonstrates leadership and dedication to excellence.Quote of the Show:“You need to foster and rely on the relationships you have with the people inside the facility.” - Gabriel BuddsLinks:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabrielbudds Fluor Corporation (Website): https://www.fluor.com Ways to Tune In:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0M2XB78b09i5vkWy1eHsxb Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/facility-rockstars/id1729458441 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/60bbc4f3-a123-47ca-9a83-eade102c5859/facility-rockstars Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/facility-rockstars-5616662 YouTube: https://youtu.be/Ty4UeKR13Z0Facility Rockstars is sponsored by Kaloutas, operating the way you operate in order to make your life easier. Learn more at: https://www.kaloutas.com

Today, we're joined by John Gancarz, Facilities Manager at L3Harris Technologies, who brings a wealth of experience in manufacturing and facilities management to the table. John underscores the pivotal role of clear documentation, like a Statement of Work (SOW), in facilitating successful project coordination among management, clients, and maintenance teams.John stresses the importance of ongoing communication, financial planning, and adherence to regulations, including local agency protocols and safety measures. He also reflects on the significance of consistency in building trust, leveraging experience, and embracing the lessons learned from setbacks.Furthermore, John shares personal anecdotes about his transition from rural life to the realm of facilities management, shedding light on his mechanical prowess and love for snowmobiling. This episode offers invaluable insights into project management, contractor dealings, and upholding safety standards, showcasing John's adeptness at overcoming obstacles and attaining objectives within facility management. Takeaways:Always draft a clear Statement of Work (SOW) for each project, defining the scope, objectives, and expectations. This document is crucial for ensuring mutual understanding and agreement between all parties involved, including customers and contractors. Before initiating any project, organize a preliminary meeting with all solicited contractors. This fosters collaboration, brings up pertinent questions early, and ensures everyone is aligned on the project’s goals and requirements. Use collaboration tools like Teams or SharePoint to centralize communication, share data, and keep project files accessible to all stakeholders. This aids in keeping everyone on the same page and streamlines project management. Maintain open and clear communication with both internal teams and external partners. Regular updates and dialogue help in managing expectations and preempting potential challenges. Ensure thorough and consistent documentation throughout the project lifecycle. Keep detailed records of project plans, changes, and progress reports. This practice is vital for tracking the project’s evolution and resolving disputes or confusion. Implement a systematic approach to preventive maintenance. Regular checks and maintenance of equipment and facilities minimize the risk of unexpected breakdowns and ensure compliance with safety regulations. Build trust with teams and partners through consistent and transparent practices. Trust is the foundation of successful collaboration and project execution. Demonstrating reliability in your processes and communication strengthens relationships and fosters a positive work environment.Quote of the Show:“I can tell you wrong from right, but experience is your best teacher.” - John GancarzLinks:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-gancarz-44ba0747 L3Harris Technologies Website: https://www.l3harris.com Ways to Tune In:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0M2XB78b09i5vkWy1eHsxb Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/facility-rockstars/id1729458441 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/60bbc4f3-a123-47ca-9a83-eade102c5859/facility-rockstars Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/facility-rockstars-5616662 YouTube: https://youtu.be/EzEAgK4cYXIFacility Rockstars is sponsored by Kaloutas, operating the way you operate in order to make your life easier. Learn more at: https://www.kaloutas.com

Our special guest today is Shane Verity, he’s a Plant Engineer at Albany International Corp. With over a decade of experience in facilities management, including pharmaceutical and aerospace manufacturing environments, Shane shares his journey, insights, and lessons learned in adapting to the unpredictable nature of facilities management. He emphasizes the importance of agility, adaptability, and the ability to pivot in response to changes, a mindset fostered from a young age through various influences, including his grandfather and a driver’s ed instructor. The discussion covers best practices for facility management, including the critical role of organization, robust file structuring, regular preventive maintenance, and the necessity of understanding and complying with regulatory requirements. Additionally, Shane highlights the value of continuous learning, leveraging technology, and the significance of communication strategies tailored to different audiences to ensure the smooth operation and management of facilities. Through anecdotes and examples, such as handling facility emergencies and the integration of new systems, this episode offers valuable lessons on problem-solving, efficiency, and data management for facility professionals seeking to excel in their roles.Takeaways:Expect the unexpected in facility management and develop agility and adaptability to manage changes effectively. Utilize divide and conquer strategies. When faced with multiple challenges, segment them into manageable tasks to tackle them efficiently. Prioritize organization and data management. Implement robust file structuring and naming conventions to easily access historical data and manage facilities more effectively. Understand your audience and tailor your communication accordingly to ensure clear and effective interaction across different departments. Commit to continuous learning. Stay open to adopting new technologies and methodologies to improve processes and facility management practices.Ensure compliance through routine preventive maintenance (PM): Regular PMs are crucial for maintaining organization, cleanliness, and compliance with regulatory requirements.Develop a personal system for time management. Allocate specific times for uninterrupted work to maintain productivity and manage tasks efficiently.Quote of the Show:“You have to be able to just take changes as they come and pivot where you stand.” - Shane Verity“We manage it. We take it in, divide it, and minimize it. What's the quickest, easiest thing that you can get done. What's the next quickest, easiest thing you can get done, get that out of the way and move forward.” - Shane Verity“You have to really know your audience and how to communicate with them.” - Shane Verity“There's not a one size fits all. There's always another way. There's always a way to get it done. Don't tell me I can't do something, tell me how I can do it.” - Shane VerityLinks:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shane-verity-b2a1b020b Website: https://www.albint.com Ways to Tune In:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0M2XB78b09i5vkWy1eHsxb Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/facility-rockstars/id1729458441 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/60bbc4f3-a123-47ca-9a83-eade102c5859/facility-rockstars Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/facility-rockstars-5616662 YouTube: https://youtu.be/PrJGMFoZwYkFacility Rockstars is sponsored by Kaloutas, operating the way you operate in order to make your life easier. Learn more at: https://www.kaloutas.com

Our special guest today is Mike Albano, Manager of Facilities Technical Operations at EMD Serono. He’s a seasoned Facility Manager with over 20 years of experience in R&D Facility Management across multiple states for EMD Serono. Mike shares his philosophy of keeping things simple, the importance of clearly defining roles and responsibilities, and the efficacy of using group texts for communication among team members. Mike also discusses navigating challenges with contractors, the significance of appointing trustworthy 'spotters', and the benefits of regular meetings and cross-training. Throughout his career, Mike has witnessed the growth of facilities from 70,000 to over 500,000 square feet, contributing to the development of LEED Gold and WELL Platinum-certified buildings. He underscores the value of showing up, doing a good job, and maintaining a positive attitude for success in facility management. Mike also provides valuable insights into effective facility management strategies, teamwork, and continuous learning. Takeaways:Avoid overcomplication in facility management. Focus on delivering clear, straightforward solutions and communications. Simplify complex processes into bullet points or steps that are easy to understand and follow. This approach is crucial, especially in meetings and presentations, to ensure that everyone involved can easily grasp the tasks and responsibilities.Make the best out of the resources and personnel you currently have. Not all facilities will have the luxury of a full-fledged team structure, so it’s essential to optimize the capabilities of existing contractors and staff effectively. Identifying and maximizing the strengths of your team can lead to successful facility management even with limited resources.Set up clear and direct communication channels and reporting lines through established contacts. This ensures that all parties, including contractors, understand their roles, responsibilities, and whom they report to, fostering accountability and streamlined operations.For immediate and broad communications, create a group text that includes key personnel across different departments and specialties. This facilitates quick information sharing, ensures timely responses to facility needs, and fosters a collaborative environment among diverse teams, including security, HVAC, and electrician services.Utilize personnel across departments as 'spotters' to observe and report on site issues. This includes leveraging security and janitorial staff who can provide critical on-the-ground insights, alerting to issues that might require immediate attention, thus enhancing the responsiveness and maintenance capacity of the facility management team.Encourage and facilitate cross-training among your team members to enhance versatility and response capabilities. This not only improves the skill set of your personnel but also ensures better coverage and efficiency in dealing with a range of maintenance and operational issues even in the absence of specialized staff.Success in facility management comes with showing up, doing a thorough job, and maintaining the right attitude. Commitment to quality work, openness to learning, and stepping out of comfort zones are critical for personal growth and the overall success of facility operations.Quote of the Show:“It's not always about getting the headcount in the building, it's getting the right people in the building.” - Mike AlbanoLinks:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-albano-0bb20aa EMD Serono Website: https://www.emdserono.com/us-en Ways to Tune In:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0M2XB78b09i5vkWy1eHsxb Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/facility-rockstars/id1729458441 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/60bbc4f3-a123-47ca-9a83-eade102c5859/facility-rockstars Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/facility-rockstars-5616662 YouTube: https://youtu.be/gdQY_Nnmn7U

Our special guest today is Dan O'Connell, the Associate Director of Facilities Operations at Alnylam Pharmaceuticals. With over 18 years of experience in facilities management, Dan shares invaluable insights into the importance of team dynamics, finding and nurturing the right talent, and the value of learning and growth in the facilities management domain. He emphasizes the significance of investing in people, enabling them to learn and perform beyond their traditional roles, and leading without formal authority to foster a cooperative and productive work environment. Dan's approach showcases a holistic view towards professional development, including personal growth aspects like financial literacy and life skills. Jay and Dan also touch upon communication strategies, preparedness for regulatory inspections, and prioritization and time management in a bustling, dynamic sector. Dan's personal journey from the Navy to leading facilities operations, alongside his commitment to his team's growth and success, highlights the depth of leadership and dedication required to excel in facilities management.Takeaways:Your team is your core support system, and a well-functioning team can significantly influence the success of your operations. Invest time in training them and encouraging continuous personal and professional growth.It's crucial to understand that 'multitasking' doesn't mean juggling multiple tasks simultaneously. Rather, it's about having multiple projects moving in parallel that you can manage effectively.Providing your team with the right training can be challenging and time-consuming, but it's a worthwhile investment. Enhancing their skills and understanding will ultimately benefit the organization.Learn how to lead without authority. Leadership is not about having a high-ranking title, it's about earning the respect of your team and guiding them effectively towards your shared goals.Embrace continuous learning and growth. The industry is always evolving, and staying up-to-date with the latest trends and developments is critical. You must be open to new ideas, learn from your experiences, and adapt accordingly.In a field such as facilities management, you need to stay on top of all the regulations and standards applicable to your work. Make sure you maintain all regulatory aspects and ensure you are in compliance.Time management is crucial for facility professionals. You have to filter the tasks at hand and distinguish between what's urgent and what's important. Prioritize your tasks accurately to manage your time effectively.Quote of the Show:“Leading without authority teaches you how to really get the results you want without having to bang your fist and bang your chest” - Dan O'ConnellLinks:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dano495 Website: https://www.alnylam.com Ways to Tune In:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0M2XB78b09i5vkWy1eHsxb Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/facility-rockstars/id1729458441 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/60bbc4f3-a123-47ca-9a83-eade102c5859/facility-rockstars Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/facility-rockstars-5616662 YouTube: https://youtu.be/wHXG9ns-IY8

Our special guest today is Eric D'Orio, the CEO of Hansen Aerospace and Managing Director of Niche Industrials at Phenna Group Holdings. Eric shares his experiences in the aerospace industry, providing insight into his biggest lessons learned as a business leader. He emphasizes the importance of preventative maintenance and stringent compliance standards in their operations. The discussion also highlights Eric's management style of empowering his team, the key trends in their industry, and how COVID-19 impacted their hiring and business growth. Furthermore, Eric talks about his role in the M&A division, shedding light on how his company manages audits and his advice for other professionals in his industry. Takeaways:Surround yourself with the right people: Having the right team is key to the growth of the business.Empower the management team: Delegating and entrusting your team with responsibilities can foster more effective management of the company. Maintain a constant readiness for audits: Being prepared for audits at all times is critical to pass the tests and maintain industry certifications.Adopt a light touch approach in M&A: Giving the acquired companies some autonomy can help in maintaining their operational effectiveness.Put in place robust inspection processes: Having thorough inspection processes can ensure compliance with various regulations and standards.Be proactive in growing the company: As seen in the rapid global expansion of Eric's companies, taking calculated risks and investing back into the company is crucial for growth.Make good use of resources: Utilizing available resources to the fullest can help in managing production efficiently and ensuring business continuity.Quote of the Show:“Don't overthink things, have the right people around you, and good things will happen.” - Eric D'OrioLinks:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-d-orio-609b1a144 Hansen Aerospace (Website): https://www.hansen1909.com Phenna Group (Website): https://phennagroup.com Ways to Tune In:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0M2XB78b09i5vkWy1eHsxb Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/facility-rockstars/id1729458441 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/60bbc4f3-a123-47ca-9a83-eade102c5859/facility-rockstars Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/facility-rockstars-5616662 YouTube: https://youtu.be/2pEmcGpinbs

Episode description not available.