The Facilities Management Association of New Zealand (FMANZ) paid tribute to two of its members who have excelled in their profession at its annual awards night, held at the ANZ Viaduct Events Centre in Auckland.
The Brian Happy Award for Facilities Manager of the Year was presented to Phoenix Lavin, the design and construction interface and transition manager with Programmed Facility Management in Wellington.
“This award recognises the outstanding performance by an individual working in the FM profession – someone who has applied their experience and knowledge to produce exceptional results within their facility, as well as demonstrating excellent personal qualities,” said FMANZ board member Veronika Harrison on presentation of the award.
In her role, Lavin drives complex facilities management transitions for public and private partnerships, such as New Zealand’s Schools PPP II project.
“Her role is pivotal to Programmed as she manages complex FM contract mobilisations involving diverse stakeholders,” said Brian Moreland, general manager NZ, Programmed Facility Management.
“Having originally started her career in construction, Phoenix brings with her the dual perspective of understanding the operational and strategic aspects of FM.”
Ashlee Jepson took away the Young Achiever of the Year Award . A facilities manager with Precinct Properties in Wellington, Ashlee manages 60,000sqm of A-Grade office space within three high-rise office towers and is accountable for a portfolio worth $330 million.
“Ashlee is a fantastic example of the future of facilities management professionals,” said Precinct Properties’ human resources manager, Lauren Joyce. “She is highly engaged and committed to learning and developing in an industry that is ever-changing.”
FMANZ’s Young Achiever of the Year Award recognises an FM professional under 35 years of age who has shown a strong and ongoing commitment to their personal development and that of the wider industry.
Argus Fire Protection was awarded FMANZ’s inaugural Service Provider of the Year Award, introduced this year to acknowledge outstanding provision of contracted-out facilities management services.
FMANZ established the Awards in 2016 to recognise and applaud the achievements of individuals who have excelled in facilities management, to promote the FM industry to the wider community, and to highlight the significant contribution FM makes to the health, wellbeing and productivity of New Zealanders.
The awards ceremony took place during FMANZ’s annual two-day FM Summit, and was hosted by award-winning comedian Jeremy Corbett. The theme of the summit was ’10 Years Strong’ in recognition of the association’s decennial celebrations.
