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People Led Progress for a Changing World

OCS Team

OCS Team

28 Nov, 2025

People Led Progress for a Changing World

The facilities industry is moving through a period of profound change. Environmental expectations, shifting trade patterns, new digital tools and global uncertainty are reshaping how organisations operate. In this context, OCS is strengthening its approach through a clear focus on people, purposeful technology, and practical sustainability. Roland Salameh, Chief Executive Officer for OCS Asia Pacific and the Middle East, recently contributed these insights to EuroCham Singapore’s CEO Economic Echo Report. This article brings together those reflections in a fresh narrative for a global audience.

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Roland Salameh

Chief Executive Officer, APAC & ME

Choosing Partners Who Share a Direction

Sustainability related decisions sometimes presented challenges. Some customers were not prepared to accept the financial implications of responsible delivery. OCS remained firm in its values, choosing to work with partners who shared its outlook even if that meant reduced income in the short term. This approach strengthened trust with organisations that prioritise ethical practice.

There were also structural barriers. Several markets still lack reliable public transport or ready access to clean energy. OCS continues to work with government agencies and local partners to encourage long term solutions suited to national context. Regulatory and labour frameworks differ across the region, so teams apply shared standards and adapt their delivery to local needs.

These efforts created new opportunities. Many customers now seek support with ESG reporting, energy data, and pathways to reduce impact. Responsible practice has also strengthened OCS as an employer. People are increasingly drawn to organisations that act with purpose and provide fair, safe conditions. The commitment to self delivery supports this, offering clarity, accountability, and a culture shaped by TRUE Values.

Building Strong Groundwork for Digital Growth

The organisation’s digital journey began by upgrading core systems. HR and finance platforms were strengthened to ensure accurate, secure data. These foundations enabled wider use of automation and analytics across operations.

Reliable data now supports more efficient planning, from occupancy insights that reduce unneeded travel to faster turnaround of invoicing. Early use of digital tools has made daily tasks easier for colleagues. Mobile systems for time and attendance, for example, improved pay accuracy and simplified rostering. These gains reflect the shift from input based processes to outcome based service models that give customers clear, measurable results.

The work is ongoing. AI and automation are still expanding across regions, yet the progress demonstrates how thoughtful use of technology creates value for people and customers. The focus remains on tools that solve real problems and make work safer, simpler, and more productive.

A woman stands indoors at night, illuminated by the light from a tablet she is holding, with blurred city lights visible through large windows in the background.
A man wearing an OCS-branded jacket and lanyard smiles while standing in front of large computer screens displaying various data and charts in a modern control room.

Leading Change Through Clear Communication

Roland emphasises that transformation succeeds when colleagues understand the purpose behind each step. Communication plays a central role in this process. Leaders explain how new tools support colleagues in practical ways. For instance, mobile timekeeping was introduced as a way to protect accurate pay and create a more balanced routine. This approach built trust and encouraged adoption.

Change leaders are equipped to guide teams through both the technical and cultural aspects of new processes. They are encouraged to question whether each solution genuinely improves the working day or customer outcomes. If a tool does not meet a real need, it is reconsidered. This principle has helped align digital decisions with the values and expectations of colleagues and customers.

Preparing for a Technology Supported Future

Digital advances are reshaping roles across the industry. Frontline work is already becoming less physical and more supported by automation. Singapore offers an early view of this shift. Labour shortages and higher wage costs have increased demand for technology that supports reliability, safety, and productivity. Other markets may progress at a different pace, yet the overall direction is consistent.

OCS is investing in robotics, planning tools powered by AI, and service models that combine local expertise with digital insight. The organisation also helps customers prepare for changing expectations, guiding them through practical steps that support continuity and resilience. Progress in this area is built on partnership rather than simply providing new tools.

Responding to Trade Disruption and Shifting Demand

Global volatility has influenced the way businesses invest. Currency movements and higher hedging costs have placed pressure on budgets across sectors. Several organisations have postponed nonessential programmes or adjusted workplace strategies to manage risk. These patterns have affected demand for facilities services and increased the need for flexibility.

OCS is adapting through models that allow customers to adjust quickly while maintaining quality and compliance. Workforce shifts, political change, and different approaches to office space are shaping market expectations. Customers now seek partners who can respond to rapid change while upholding global standards. This trend has increased interest in outsourcing functions that are vital to daily operations yet sit outside core activities.

The business continues to strengthen its presence in sectors that require high levels of assurance, including healthcare, data centres, and logistics. A broad and balanced portfolio across countries and markets reduces exposure to sudden shifts and supports long term resilience.

A modern, brightly lit server room with rows of server racks on both sides and a reflective white floor, creating a sleek, high-tech atmosphere.

Planning for an Uncertain Future

The organisation is preparing for continued unpredictability by reinforcing a model built on strong local leadership supported by global governance. This structure gives countries the freedom to respond to their own market conditions while keeping shared standards intact. It also ensures customers receive consistent service with reliable safeguards.

A sector based approach supports faster decision making when economic or regulatory shifts occur. Investments continue in areas that anticipate future demand, such as automation, AI, and partnerships with emerging technology providers. Commercial teams are refining frameworks that help customers measure value more clearly, supporting decisions grounded in evidence.

Organisations with firm values, strong local presence and a clear link to global business priorities will remain competitive. OCS is shaping its future around these principles, driven by a belief that people, technology, and purpose must work together to create lasting progress.

Read Roland’s Full Contribution in EuroCham Singapore’s CEO Economic Echo Report

Read Roland’s Full Contribution in EuroCham Singapore’s CEO Economic Echo Report

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