Under the spotlight with… John Harris

August 17, 2022

Q&A

Tell us more about your role at Anabas and your journey with the company so far?

As the facilities manager working in a landmark building accommodating up to 2,500 workers, my role at Anabas can be incredibly varied. At its core, my responsibility is looking after several engineers of varying specialities with duties that include reactive and planned maintenance of the mechanical and electrical building systems.

We also ensure the fabric of the building is consistently refreshed and that the audio-visual technician equipment is maintained. Having moved into this role six years ago, and into a new building, it has not been without its challenges. However, it has presented me with excitement and the opportunity to learn and develop.

Can you tell us a little bit about your career history? 

I originally started working for this client in September 1991 on a six-month maternity cover. I was recruited to ensure the smooth running of the post room on a fixed term basis, and the rest, as they say, is history! Having proven myself indispensable in the mail room, the following 30 years have seen my role develop, taking on more facets of the FM delivery. Six years ago, I was informed that my role would transfer into Anabas and despite my initial hesitation, I was given the opportunity to operate in a larger team in our new building with an outsourcing perspective.

What are the main challenges you face in your role?

My career in facilities management has shown me that no two days are ever the same. Both the biggest excitement and, of course, challenge is not knowing what is going to happen next.

What do you like most about your role and working in FM?

The vast array of things we are responsible for presents us with continued opportunities to learn and meet people from different backgrounds. This gives me great pleasure and I thrive off helping people. And of course, the support I receive from my team– having that is vital.

What’s been your biggest highlight whilst working at Anabas?

So far, my biggest highlight is celebrating my 30 years of service at a surprise party. Having the date of the celebration decided by the Chief Executive Officer of a FTSE 100 company so that he could personally attend and deliver a speech outlining my career felt incredibly special.

What advice would you give someone who is interested in working in FM?

For anyone considering a move into FM – go for it! Be prepared for some long days and nights, but it’s all worth it.

Tell us how Anabas is #brilliantlydifferent?

At Anabas, everyone is part of the support network together. We’re always there for each other.

To me good customer service is… 

…always striving to do the very best you can, whatever the situation calls for.

What’s on your bucket list?

One day I will drive the incredible Route 66 in a Ford Mustang. This has always been a dream of mine.