World FM Day 2026: Celebrating the vital work of our facilities managers in a prison environment
World FM Day 2026: Powering Smarter, More Connected Workplaces
World FM Day 2026 is an opportunity to recognise the vital role facilities management plays in shaping how people experience the built environment.
This year’s theme, “Cultivating belonging through built environments,” highlights the growing importance of creating spaces that not only function efficiently, but foster connection, wellbeing and inclusion.
As organisations adapt to changing ways of working, facilities management continues to evolve. Today’s FM professionals are enabling smarter, more connected buildings - integrating technology, sustainability and service excellence to deliver environments where people can thrive.
From the smallest detail to large-scale operational strategy, FM teams are at the heart of workplace
The impact of FM on people, performance and planet
Behind every successful workplace is a network of FM professionals ensuring that spaces are safe, efficient and aligned to organisational goals. Their impact can be seen in three key areas:
Sustainability and responsible operations
FM teams play a critical role in reducing environmental impact - optimising energy use, managing resources responsibly and supporting organisations on their journey to net zero.
Workplace experience and wellbeing
From cleanliness and safety to comfort and accessibility, FM professionals create environments where people feel valued and supported, driving engagement, productivity and a strong sense of belonging.
Operational excellence and innovation
Through integrated service delivery and the use of smart technologies, FM ensures that buildings are not only functional but future-ready - adapting to changing needs with agility and precision.
On World FM Day, we celebrate the individuals who bring these outcomes to life every day.
Meet some of our FM leaders Gráinne O’Neill - Creating value through connection and detail
Gráinne O’Neill has developed a strong reputation for delivering high-quality, people-focused facilities management. Since joining Sodexo as Global Services Manager for Lilly GBS in October 2023, Gráinne has led a €2.8m contract covering workplace experience, technical services, catering, cleaning, reception and sustainability.
Career journey & achievements
Gráinne’s role requires balancing operational priorities with evolving client needs while consistently delivering measurable value. Her leadership has contributed to key successes, including winning the Sodexo/Lilly EMEA Site of the Year Award 2025 and supporting Lilly GBS in achieving a global sustainability award.
She is particularly passionate about developing high-performing, collaborative teams and building trusted partnerships across onsite and regional stakeholders.
Leadership philosophy
Gráinne believes that excellence is built through consistency, attention to detail and empowering individuals to contribute to a shared purpose.
Facilities management shapes how people experience belonging at work. Through the everyday details, we create spaces that feel welcoming, safe and inclusive—making a difference in ways that often go unseen but are always felt
John Murphy – Delivering resilience, safety and partnership
John Murphy’s career reflects both technical expertise and a strong commitment to continuous development. Progressing from Technical Services Manager to GSM, John now leads a €14m contract delivering integrated services across cleaning, technical services, landscaping, laboratory support and more.
Career journey & achievements
John demonstrated exceptional leadership during the mobilisation of Lilly Kinsale’s 60M administration building during the COVID-19 pandemic - ensuring safe and seamless delivery during a complex and challenging period. Alongside his professional achievements, John completed a Level 8 Honours Degree in Facilities & Workplace Management with first-class honours, reflecting his dedication to industry excellence.
Leadership philosophy
John’s approach is rooted in safety, listening and responsiveness. He believes that strong partnerships and proactive service delivery are key to building trust and long-term success.
Facilities management creates belonging by delivering environments where people feel safe, supported and heard. When we listen and respond to those using our spaces, we help create workplaces where people truly feel they belong.”
Paul Toomey – Driving growth in dynamic environments
Paul Toomey brings a forward-thinking approach to facilities management, focusing on growth, adaptability and operational scale. As Technical Services Manager, he plays a leading role in delivering services on a developing greenfield site.
Career journey & achievements
Paul has been instrumental in mobilising a major new site in Limerick, managing the complexities of vendor setup, expanding scope and onboarding new teams across both Sodexo and client organisations. His work continues as the site progresses through its next phases of development.
Leadership philosophy
Paul values strong relationships and collaboration, recognising that success in evolving environments depends on alignment, flexibility and shared goals.
As our environments grow and change, facilities management must evolve with them. By working in true partnership and staying adaptable, we can create spaces that support both performance and belonging into the future.”
Celebrating World FM Day 2026
This World FM Day, we celebrate the dedication, expertise and impact of FM professionals across our teams and beyond.
Take a moment to recognise the people who keep workplaces running, often behind the scenes, ensuring that every space is safe, welcoming and ready to support those who use it. Explore more insights, stories and resources to learn how facilities management continues to shape the future of work - and join us in celebrating the profession that makes it all possible.
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