Twenty years ago, property and facilities management were very different. Everything from the workforce, workplace, work processes, technology automation and customer relations has changed. Sathish Rajendren, Executive Managing Director of India and APAC, NEWMARK, Property and Facilities Management, has been part of this evolution.
From Reactive Operations to Strategic Value
Twenty years ago, Property and Facilities Management (PFM) was primarily a reactive and manpower intensive function focused on addressing issues as they occurred and maintaining physical infrastructure. Its role was largely operational and often limited to keeping buildings functional rather than contributing to organisational value. Over time PFM has progressed into a strategic and technology enabled domain that influences workplace experience, sustainability and business continuity.
The evolution of PFM shows how technology, skilled talent and sustainability are redefining workplace operations and turning facilities management into a key business enabler.
— Sathish Rajendren
Evolution of the Workforce
The PFM workforce two decades ago was predominantly unskilled or semi-skilled with minimal formal training and limited diversity. Recognition within organisations was modest and opportunities for career growth were limited.
Today PFM represents a highly skilled multidisciplinary talent pool that continues to evolve through learning and professional development. The workforce has become more inclusive and diverse and serves as the visible face of client organisations while driving innovation, efficiency and service excellence.
Transformation of the Workplace
The nature of the workplace has also transformed. Previously PFM operations were focused on traditional office centric spaces with emphasis on maintenance and compliance.
The workplace today is dynamic and people centric with a focus on wellness, sustainability, safety and experience. PFM teams now curate environments that support productivity, collaboration and employee wellbeing while aligning with broader business goals.
Advancement of Processes and Technology
Two decades ago, PFM processes relied heavily on manual registers, isolated systems and reactive maintenance models. Communication tools were limited to walkie talkies and simple phone logs with little scope for predictive insights.
Today PFM is supported by integrated data driven systems and advanced digital platforms. IoT enabled systems, computer aided facility management (CAFM), computerised maintenance management systems (CMMS), robotics, drones, sensors and digital twins have redefined operations. Dashboards and analytics enable real time monitoring, predictive maintenance and informed decision making. Mechanised cleaning, smart meters and automation have improved efficiency, safety and sustainability outcomes.
Shift to Strategic Client Partnerships
Historically PFM service relationships were mainly transactional with a focus on contract delivery and short-term problem resolution. Today PFM functions as a strategic partner that co-creates long term solutions with clients and contributes to decisions at leadership levels.
PFM leaders support sustainability and environmental, social and governance (ESG) goals and align their work with organisational purpose and long-term value creation. This shift has repositioned PFM from an invisible back-office function to a business enabler that shapes corporate culture and brand reputation.
The Road Ahead
Property and facilities management has undergone significant transformation and now operates at the intersection of technology, sustainability and human experience. As digital transformation accelerates and expectations evolve, PFM will continue to shape the future of workspaces through consistent value creation, sustainability driven practices and service excellence.