Leading industry players from the region discussed ways to promote the spirit of innovation within the facilities management (FM) sector and adopt best industry practices at key event held in Dubai.

The networking breakfast, titled ‘Best Practice & Innovation in Facilities Management,’ was hosted by the Middle East Facility Management Association (Mefma) at the Emrill Head Office as part of its ongoing bid to enhance the sector’s global competitiveness.  

Mefma President Jamal Lootah said: "The recently concluded gathering was another opportunity for key stakeholders to take a closer look on the issue of innovation and its increasing role in our society. The discussion is especially relevant at a time when the UAE is strengthening its efforts to become an international hub for innovation."

"As it is, a number of industries, including FM, have already responded to the government’s move and we at Mefma are further seeking to bring our efforts to the next level to keep pace with and meet the evolving market needs," he noted.

Wasim Al Imam, the general manager of Ahla Jaw, one of the event’s sponsors, opened the discussions with his brief introductory session. A presentation titled ‘Asset Management vs. FM? Who are we?’  by Jennifer Peltenburg, FM Director (UAE) of Khansaheb Facilities Management and Mefma Strategic Sub-Committee Leader followed Al Imam’s talk, during which she addressed FM’s advancement through continuous innovation.

A panel discussion titled ‘What will drive innovation & best practice in FM in the next 5-10 years?’ was moderated by Tarek Nizameddin, Senior Executive Director (Commercial), Ejadah. During the session, attendees talked about the fundamentals that would drive innovation and deployment within the regional sector in the near future.

The panel comprised Fahad Mohamed, Director of FM, Deyaar Owners Association Management; Martin Burholt, Managing Director, International FM and UK Communities; and Martin Gregory, International Director – FM Consulting, Drees & Sommer.

Ali Alsuwaidi, the Mefma VP, said: "This networking event is an important platform to define the scope of work of to Mefma's Strategic Sub-Committee, which is composed of its strategic corporate members."

"The committee plays a vital role in the continuing move to facilitate a smooth exchange of insights, listening to feedback and creating and recommendations, including studies covering current and future challenges of the facilities management market," he added.-TradeArabia News Service