By Parris Ullrich, Director of MENA and APAC at Macro

I made the move from Australia to Dubai 19 years ago, and in that time, I’ve experienced the emergence of a more female-inclusive professional culture in the Middle East. It has, at times, felt like a slow shift; however, today, as Regional Director of a globally recognised facilities management, I am pleased to say my seat at the table is secure and valued by many trusted male colleagues across the region. 

The shift I’ve experienced is no doubt due in part to the perseverance and achievements of my fellow female leaders in the Middle East. However, I also believe it’s due to the industry I’m in. I’ve discovered, over years of working my way through various facilities management roles, that FM is ideally positioned to provide enormous opportunity for women in the region. 

It might sound counter-intuitive: After all, FM in the Middle East is a traditionally male-dominated industry operating in traditionally male-dominated part of the world. And yet, the Middle East is also dynamic and rapidly evolving, and I have seen firsthand how FM enables women to carve out impactful and rewarding careers in this context. 

Well-suited to emerging female-led areas of expertise and capability, FM provides a vast array of roles, the chance to make significant contributions to sustainable and smart building solutions, and the opportunity to rise through the ranks into leadership positions. In short, FM is a hidden gem for aspiring female professionals in the Middle East.

Breaking stereotypes and building careers

The FM industry is traditionally seen through the lens of maintenance and janitorial services, but this view is outdated and narrow. Today's FM encompasses a wide range of services, including sustainability management, technological integration, energy efficiency, and strategic planning. These areas require diverse skill sets and fresh perspectives— qualities that women bring to the table in abundance.

Women in the FM industry can leverage their strengths in communication, multitasking, and management to excel in various roles such as project management, sustainability consulting, and operations leadership. These roles are not just limited to behind-the-scenes operations; they are pivotal in driving the industry's transformation towards more sustainable and smart facilities.

Pioneering sustainability and innovation

With initiatives like Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 and the UAE's focus on smart cities, there is a growing demand for sustainable and efficient building management solutions. Women in FM have a unique opportunity to lead these initiatives, ensuring that the region's infrastructure growth is aligned with global sustainability standards.

Leadership and mentorship

Leadership in FM is no longer a distant dream for women. As more women enter the industry, we are seeing a gradual but significant shift in workplace culture and leadership dynamics. Women leaders bring empathy, collaborative spirit, and a holistic approach to management, which are essential for the people-centric nature of FM.

My journey from an entry-level position to a Regional Director was fueled by a combination of hard work, continuous learning, and mentorship. Mentorship, in particular, plays a crucial role in nurturing talent and providing the guidance needed to navigate the complexities of the industry. As leaders, we have the responsibility to mentor the next generation of women FM professionals, helping them realise their potential and encouraging them to take on leadership roles.

Embracing Diversity and Inclusion

A diverse and inclusive workforce is proven to drive better business outcomes. By embracing diversity, the FM industry can unlock a wealth of creativity, innovation, and problem-solving capabilities. Companies that prioritise gender diversity are not only fostering a more inclusive work environment but are also setting themselves up for long-term success.

In my role, I have advocated for policies that promote gender equality, flexible working conditions, and professional development programs tailored for women. These initiatives are crucial in attracting and retaining female talent in the industry.

The Road Ahead

The future of the FM industry in the Middle East is bright, but there is still some way to go, and women have a central role to play in shaping it. By breaking down stereotypes, and fostering inclusive leadership, we can create a thriving environment where women can excel and lead.

To all the women considering a career in FM: Seize the opportunities, embrace the challenges, and know that your contributions are vital to the industry's growth and innovation. With determination and the right support, the sky's the limit. My journey from the ground up to a leadership role stands as a testament to the potential that lies within this industry. Together, let's pave the way for a more diverse and dynamic FM sector in the Middle East.