FMJ Facilities Management magazine providing industry-specific intelligence to FM and property professionals
To mark World FM Day and the theme Resilience in Action: FM Thriving in a World of Change, Sodexo UK & Ireland is proud to spotlight Emily Davis, Hospitality Support Manager in its Independent Schools business, who is taking a bold and inspiring step forward by beginning her FM apprenticeship with Sodexo this May. Her story highlights how new voices and experiences along with the courage to explore new career paths are shaping the future of facilities management.
Davis’ journey into FM began unexpectedly when she attended an IWFM Rising event — a moment that would change her professional outlook. “Before the talk, I really didn’t know what FM was,” she says. “But hearing from speakers like Joanne Harris, Head of Technical Services at Sodexo, and Deborah Rowland, Director of Public Sector Affairs at Sodexo, opened my eyes. Their stories, their drive, and their passion made me realise FM was exactly the kind of career I had been looking for.”
The event was both informative and transformative. “I left feeling empowered. Seeing such strong, successful women thriving in a traditionally male-dominated industry made me believe that I could carve my own path in FM, too.”
Davis’ enthusiasm didn’t stop there. Inspired, she reached out to express her appreciation to the IWFM speakers — a simple gesture that led to a wave of support and guidance from across Sodexo. “I was amazed by the willingness of people to help me find a way into FM. It made me realise how welcoming and supportive this industry could be.”
Starting an FM apprenticeship while continuing her role as a Hospitality Support Manager represents a major turning point in Davis’ career. “It means so much to me,” she says. “I feel like I’ve been given a real opportunity to develop and grow in a field I didn’t even know was accessible to someone like me.”
Davis is excited for what lies ahead. “I’m most looking forward to visiting different FM sites and learning firsthand how the work is done. I’ve already got some visits lined up and I can’t wait.” She’s particularly interested in sustainability — an area she’s seen the importance of up close in her current role at a site heavily focused on waste management. “I want to understand how sustainability is driven from an FM perspective and how I can contribute to it.”
Starting her apprenticeship during the week of World FM Day feels very timely. “It’s a perfect moment to begin this journey,” Davis reflects. “I know it’s going to be hard work, but I also know I’ll be supported every step of the way. I’m so grateful to everyone who’s helped make this happen.”
Her advice to others who may be curious about a future in FM is simple: “Go for it. Reach out, attend events, speak to people — you’ll be amazed at the support that’s out there. If I hadn’t taken that first step, I wouldn’t be where I am today.”
As Davis embarks on her new chapter, her story is an important reminder that the future of FM is being shaped not just by innovation and technology, but by people with passion, curiosity, and a willingness to take the first step.
