IWFM is relaunching its Women in FM Network, renewing the Institute’s commitment to supporting women across the workplace and facilities management profession. The refreshed WiFM Network will focus on widening participation, strengthening career pathways and helping more women thrive in every part of the sector.
The workplace and facilities management profession continues to evolve at pace. Yet despite being represented at every level of FM, women remain underrepresented in senior roles and specialist pathways. Recognising this, IWFM has worked with members, volunteers and sector partners to reshape the Women in FM Network so that it can better reflect current challenges and provide practical support for those building their careers.
The relaunch of WiFM brings together a programme of activity designed to inspire emerging talent, highlight role models, and offer accessible spaces for women to connect with peers, develop new skills and share experiences. It also aims to broaden the pipeline of women entering the profession by raising awareness of the opportunities that workplace and facilities management can offer.
At the centre of WiFM’s refreshed structure is its new Chair, Christy Smith MIWFM of Integrated Estates Management, who brings long-standing industry experience and a clear vision for how the Network can deliver impact for members, employers and the wider profession.
As Christy, says, ‘With the support of our allies, WiFM will help create an industry where women are visible, valued and supported to grow, lead and excel. I want the next generation – including my daughter, to see FM as a profession where they can belong and thrive.’
The relaunch builds on IWFM’s ambition to help create a profession where everyone can thrive. It recognises that many women continue to face barriers to progression, from limited visibility of career routes to the challenges of balancing professional and personal responsibilities. Through targeted support, resources and events, the Network will focus on addressing these issues and helping members build confidence, knowledge and connections.
Key areas of focus for the relaunched Women in FM Network will include:
- Career development – providing guidance, signposting and learning opportunities tailored to the needs of women at different stages of their FM careers, while also raising awareness of the ongoing imbalance across the industry and encouraging allies to play an active role in creating fair opportunities.
- Community and networking – creating spaces where members can share insight, ask questions and learn from peers.
- Showcasing role models – highlighting the achievements and stories of women across the profession to help inspire others.
- Research and insight – gathering and sharing evidence on the experiences of women in FM to inform future initiatives.
- Visibility of FM as a career – raising awareness of the breadth of the profession and its potential to attract women from all backgrounds.
As part of the relaunch, WiFM will introduce a refreshed calendar of activities for 2026, including in person and online events, themed discussions, career focused sessions and opportunities to connect with mentors and industry leaders. ‑person and online events, themed discussions, career‑focused sessions and opportunities to connect with mentors and industry leaders.
The Network will continue to work closely with other IWFM communities to explore intersectional issues, share data and ensure that insights from across the profession inform its work.
The relaunch is part of IWFM’s wider commitment to building a forward looking, inclusive profession. By strengthening the Women in FM Network, the Institute aims to support existing members, encourage new voices to join the community and help shape a more diverse future pipeline.
Membership of the Women in FM Network is open to all IWFM members, regardless of gender. The Institute welcomes anyone who is interested in supporting the Network’s aims, contributing to discussions or helping to champion the value that women bring to every area of workplace and facilities management.
The Network is now inviting new members to join the Committee, take part in activities and help shape its next phase. Whether you are new to FM, midcareer, or an established leader, the Women in FM community offers a network to connect with others and play a part in strengthening the profession.
There’s a breakfast launch event on Tuesday 10 March in London – you can find full info here.
For more information on joining WiFM or taking part in upcoming activities, please contact the Communities team.
