Get to know Toby Reeve, Account Manager at Anabas, as he answers questions on his career in the FM industry…

What was your first job?
My first Facilities related role was as a temp at the BBC entering lock numbers for the locksmiths when they were all suited and upgraded. It wasn’t the most challenging role but it certainly set me on the path to my career in FM.

How long have you been working in FM?
21 years.

Why did you choose a career in FM?
I’m not sure many people choose a career in FM. People usually fall into the FM industry and the job finds them. I love the fact that it attracts so many people from different backgrounds and with so many diverse skills and ways of thinking.

What notable changes have you seen in the FM industry since you have been a part of it?
The emphasis has shifted to developing relationships, not just supplying a service. This is what has kept me interested and engaged for so long. That and where Facilities people come from – it used to be very much an ex service or forces background, now it’s much richer and more diverse.

What challenges do you foresee for the industry in the coming year?
The future of the workplace is something that will have an impact on the FM industry as a whole – flexible working and clients reducing overheads by condensing their estates will mean we need to look into different ways of managing a more dynamic and fluid environment.

What is your proudest moment?
There are so many – ranging from just being there for small decencies with my teams over the years, to being part of the Facilities team that supported amazing endeavours like Children in Need.

What is the best piece of advice you have ever been given?
Never ask a question that you don’t already know the answer to…