Page name
Technology is moving up the agenda in facilities management but it isn’t to replace people. It’s reshaping how services are delivered, how providers compete, and what skills businesses need to grow.
In the last 12 months, I’ve seen more companies shift from standalone janitorial contracts to full-service maintenance solutions. Clients want fewer suppliers, stronger performance guarantees, and partners who can support them across multiple service lines.
That evolution is creating new demand across sales and operations, particularly for people who can sell and deliver integrated offers, and who understand how to incorporate technology into their pitch without overpromising on automation.
According to a 2024 report by Fortune Business Insights, the global facility management market is projected to grow from $1.29 trillion in 2024 to $1.78 trillion by 2032, driven by demand for integrated services and technology-led efficiency gains.
Here’s where the market is moving and what employers and candidates need to focus on next.
Hiring in Core Services Is Holding Steady
Despite growing interest in robotics and automation, most of the hiring I support still revolves around people.
There’s consistent demand across:
- Janitorial services
- Landscaping and grounds maintenance
- Operations leadership
- Sales and Business Development roles
Companies are looking for individuals who can deliver more than just a service, they want strategic partners. BDMs and operations leads who can navigate bundled contracts, regional rollout plans, and KPIs tied to cost, compliance, and cleanliness.
Why ‘One Stop Shop’ Providers Are Gaining Ground
Clients don’t want five vendors managing five different parts of the same building. The drive to consolidate contracts and simplify vendor management is fuelling demand for bundled facilities solutions.
That means employers need salespeople who can translate that offer into real commercial value. The ability to pitch a multi-service solution with a clear return on investment is now a key hiring differentiator.
Technology Is a Differentiator (But Only If It’s Backed by Delivery)
Autonomous cleaning machines. Sensor-triggered restocking. Predictive maintenance platforms. These technologies aren’t hypothetical…they’re live in the field. But most of them still rely on human oversight, interpretation, and maintenance.
That’s why roles in operations and commercial leadership aren’t going anywhere. In fact, they’re becoming more specialised. Employers want people who understand the tech enough to pitch it, deploy it, and manage teams around it.
For more on how these tools are changing the landscape, read our related post: The Future of Facilities Management: Adopting Smart Building Technology.
What Companies and Candidates Should Focus On
- For employers: Prioritise people who can think beyond their remit. Strong candidates in today’s market blend service delivery with commercial awareness and understand how to evolve service models alongside client expectations.
- For candidates: If you’ve led teams, managed contracts, or grown accounts in janitorial or landscaping, this is your moment to step up. Companies need commercially focused leaders who can sell the full package and adapt to where tech fits in.
Seeking to Support
If you're expanding your facilities services team or exploring a shift toward integrated offerings or, if you’re a candidate with experience in sales, operations, or service delivery and you're ready for your next move get in touch with Laura on LinkedIn or here.
Contact us today
Spencer Riley’s team of highly dedicated, specialist consultants’ pride themselves on gaining a full understanding of our client’s business,
