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OCS has expanded its presence in the higher education sector having secured a new total facilities management (TFM) contract with the University of Sunderland in London.
The initial three-year contract, which has the option to extend for two additional years, went live on 28 April 2025.
Located near Canary Wharf, the University of Sunderland in London is a rapidly growing institution that serves a diverse, international student body of 6,000. Designed to reflect a modern and professional learning environment, the campus requires flexible and high-quality services.
Under this new partnership, OCS delivers a full suite of TFM services, including cleaning, security, maintenance, portering, pest control, hygiene, window cleaning, and specialist services such as laundry for the simulation ward and sustainable waste management. The contract is supported by a central helpdesk in Glasgow and an on-site team of 14, led by a technically focused account manager.
The contract leverages various digital platforms to provide full visibility, reduce risk and support real-time task management. These tools underpin a modern FM approach, enabling transparent reporting and service excellence across the board.
OCS also supports the university’s health simulation suite, providing services that enhance this real-world learning environment. This alignment with the university’s academic mission says OCS, demonstrates how it goes “beyond traditional FM delivery to add real value”.
Sustainability is central to OCS’ service model. The OCS team has implemented a circular waste management system to improve recycling and segregation. In line with OCS and the University of Sunderland in London’s net zero targets, plans are also in place to introduce EV charging points.
In addition, the team has introduced chemical-free cleaning technologies and continues collaborating with the university’s ESG team to deliver greener, more future-focused FM solutions.
Through this contract, OCS actively invests in people and communities. The company has welcomed existing colleagues to the team while creating new local employment opportunities. OCS provides employability workshops, internships and career support for students and graduates.
Further contributions include supporting the healthcare simulation ward with equipment and training tools, which help enhance student learning outcomes. Colleagues will benefit from OCS’s TRUE Stars recognition scheme and wellbeing initiatives, reinforcing the company’s values where well-supported teams deliver the best results.
Symeon Hall, Senior Facilities Manager, University of Sunderland in London, said: “We are pleased to have appointed OCS as the facilities partner for the University of Sunderland in London. As our students and staff settle into our new, state-of-the-art campus, effective building management will be crucial to its continued success. We look forward to working with the highly experienced OCS team throughout the contract.”
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