1. Could you share insights into your career journey? What has been a defining moment that significantly influenced your professional growth?
I joined Capgemini through the acquisition of LiquidHub in 2018 and currently head the Corporate Real Estate Services (CRES). In this role, I manage responsibilities ranging from global real estate rationalization and strategy to transformation for a sustainable future, capacity planning, transactions, facility and asset management, and workplace digitization. My approach integrates data-driven analysis and technology with a people-centric mindset, ensuring that decision-making and strategies are aligned with human values.
Before transitioning into real estate, I gained experience in building and operating global delivery centers, managing P&L, and overseeing operations in the hospital, healthcare, and technology sectors. I strongly believe the future holds immense opportunities as we strive toward a sustainable, thriving economy and an inclusive society.
2. What are some of the key challenges in the facility management sector, and what solutions can address them effectively?
Facility management presents various challenges that impact operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness. These include unplanned maintenance costs, lack of real-time data, managing outdated equipment, and the complexities of coordinating multiple tasks simultaneously.
- Unplanned Maintenance Costs: Predictive maintenance, supported by data analytics and IoT sensors, can reduce emergency repairs and extend asset lifespans by enabling proactive interventions.
- Lack of Real-Time Data: Smart building technologies that monitor energy usage, system performance, and environmental conditions in real time facilitate informed decision-making and enhance operational efficiency.
- Outdated Equipment: Investing in energy-efficient modern equipment and adopting phased replacement strategies can reduce maintenance costs while gradually upgrading infrastructure.
- Task Documentation and Tracking: Automated facility management systems streamline operations, centralize task management, and provide detailed reports for better decision-making and efficient asset management.
By integrating technology and targeted strategies such as predictive maintenance, IoT deployment, and efficient coordination tools, we can enhance facility management efficiency and optimize operational costs.
3. How have you incorporated sustainability into your facility management strategies? Could you elaborate on any innovative technologies or practices that have improved operations and user experience?
At Capgemini, we have implemented a pioneering Energy Command Center (ECC), a global-first initiative built on IoT architecture for resource management. ECC monitors and predicts metrics like indoor air quality, energy and water intensity, asset health, and renewable energy performance. This data-driven approach has enabled significant improvements in energy efficiency, achieving a 29% reduction in energy use. Notably, all our Indian offices operate on 100% renewable energy.
Key sustainability strategies include:
- Energy Efficiency Upgrades: Initiatives like LED lighting, solar-powered streetlights, and high-efficiency HVAC systems have reduced energy consumption and utility costs.
- Renewable Energy Sources: Solar plants, rooftops, gazebos, and solar-powered walkways not only lower dependency on non-renewable energy but also contribute surplus energy to state electricity grids in Bangalore and Hyderabad.
- Water Conservation: Rainwater collection tanks and sewage treatment plants support landscaping and reduce water usage while promoting sustainability.
- Waste Management: Biogas plants and organic waste converters process waste into valuable resources like biogas and compost, reducing landfill contributions.
- Employee Engagement: Sustainability training sessions and awareness campaigns encourage a culture of environmental responsibility, integrating green practices into daily operations.
4. What qualities and skills have been instrumental in your success in facility management? What advice would you offer to those aspiring to enter this field?
Success in facility management requires analytical skills to interpret data and make informed decisions, technical expertise to manage building systems, project management proficiency for seamless execution, and strong communication skills to engage stakeholders effectively. Resourcefulness in problem-solving and adaptability to embrace technological advancements are also crucial.
For aspiring professionals, gaining diverse experience, staying abreast of industry trends, pursuing relevant certifications, and cultivating a strong professional network can provide a solid foundation. Additionally, integrating sustainable practices into management strategies will help ensure competitiveness and long-term success in this field.