Month: June 2024

A Sit-down with Group CEO, Rob Legge in honour of Armed Forces Day

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Introduction

OCS is known as a ‘forces-friendly employer.’ Can you explain what that means and why it is essential to the company?

Being a ‘forces-friendly employer’ means actively recruiting and supporting veterans, reservists, and their families. This is crucial because veterans bring many skills and values from their military service, such as leadership, discipline, resilience, and teamwork. We believe in providing opportunities for those who have served, honouring their commitment by offering meaningful employment and helping them transition to civilian life.

Veterans and Employment

Why do you believe the facilities services industry is an ideal fit for veterans?

The facilities services industry aligns well with veterans’ skills and experiences. Their ability to handle complex, high-pressure situations, adaptability, and strong work ethic make them ideal for roles in our sector. Whether managing security, maintaining facilities, or providing customer service, veterans’ military training and experiences prepare them well for these responsibilities.

How does OCS support veterans transitioning from military service to civilian employment?

We aim to provide support in a few ways, including tailored training programmes that bridge military skills to civilian roles, mentorship schemes pairing veterans with experienced colleagues, and career development opportunities. Our partnership with organisations like The Poppy Factory helps us connect with veterans, understand their unique needs, and offer personalised support and guidance. Our early involvement with veteran resettlement programmes has also played a vital role in providing this support, helping veterans transition smoothly from military to civilian life.

Social Mobility and Investment

How does OCS promote social mobility within the company?

We create pathways for all colleagues to advance. We focus on inclusive hiring practices, continuous professional development, and providing opportunities for career progression. Our apprenticeship and training programmes are designed to help colleagues at all levels enhance their skills and advance within the company. We believe in promoting from within and supporting our colleagues’ growth and development.

What specific initiatives does OCS have in place to invest in the professional development of its colleagues, particularly veterans?

We offer several initiatives aimed at professional development, including apprenticeships and bespoke training programmes. These programmes focus on leadership development, technical skills, and industry-specific knowledge. We also have mentoring schemes where colleagues, including veterans, can receive guidance from experienced colleagues. Specifically, partnerships with veteran support and development organisations ensure our veteran colleagues can access various resources and support.

Making People and Places the Best They Can Be

One of OCS’s goals is to make people and places the best they can be. How do veterans contribute to achieving this goal?

Veterans bring our team a unique perspective and a strong sense of unity. Their commitment to excellence and ability to work under pressure contribute significantly to our goal of making people and places the best they can be. They help us maintain high service standards, drive continuous improvement, and inspire their colleagues with dedication and work ethic.

How does OCS ensure a supportive and inclusive work environment for all its colleagues, including veterans?

We foster a culture based on our TRUE values: Trust, Respect, Unity, and Empowerment. Our policies and practices support all colleagues, including veterans, through flexible working arrangements, mental health support, and a comprehensive induction programme that helps new hires integrate smoothly.

Armed Forces Day and Community Engagement

What would you like to convey to the public and the OCS team on Armed Forces Day?

On Armed Forces Day, I want to thank all who have served and continue to serve. Let’s continue to support our veteran colleagues and honour the values they represent. Our commitment to being a forces-friendly employer is strong, and we will remain committed to this community.

Can you talk about OCS’s work with The Poppy Factory and the significance of this partnership?

Our partnership with The Poppy Factory is crucial in helping veterans find meaningful employment. The Poppy Factory supports veterans with health conditions at work, and we are proud to collaborate with them to offer opportunities within OCS. This partnership significantly impacts veterans’ lives, helping them transition to civilian life with dignity and purpose. It also aligns with our values of Trust, Respect, Unity, and Empowerment.

Armed Forces Covenant and Troopr Partnership

OCS has committed to the Armed Forces Covenant. Can you explain what this covenant entails and why it is significant for OCS?

The Armed Forces Covenant is a way to support the armed forces community, ensuring those who serve or have served in the military and their families are treated fairly and respectfully. Committing to the covenant is a public affirmation of our dedication to supporting the military community and reflects our drive to provide opportunities and support for veterans and their families. Before the merger both legacy OCS and Atalian Servest had pledged to the covenant, as a newly merged business, OCS is now taking the necessary steps to renew our pledges and apply for Silver status in the employer recognition scheme as part of the covenant.

How will the partnership with Troopr benefit veterans and forces-friendly employers like OCS?

Our partnership with Troopr will enhance our ability to connect with veterans and provide them with tailored employment opportunities. Troopr’s platform helps match veterans’ skills with the right roles within OCS, ensuring a better fit and a greater chance of sustainable employment. This partnership also strengthens our reputation as a forces-friendly employer.

Future Plans and Vision

How do you see the role of veterans evolving within OCS in the coming years?

I see veterans playing an increasingly vital role within our organisation. As we continue to grow, veterans’ skills and leadership qualities will be more critical than ever. We will expand our support programmes and create more opportunities for veterans to take on leadership roles, helping drive our business forward and maintain our high service and operational excellence standards.

What advice would you give to other companies looking to become more force-friendly and supportive of veterans?

Recognise the value that veterans bring and actively support them. Establish clear pathways for recruitment and development and create a culture that values their contributions. Partnering with veteran support organisations is another good way to understand better and meet their needs. Most importantly, listen to veterans and involve them in shaping your policies and programmes.

Personal Reflections

As a veteran yourself, what personal experiences have influenced your leadership style and vision for OCS?

My military service taught me the importance of leadership, resilience, and teamwork, which has shaped my approach to leading OCS. I believe in leading by example, being transparent, and trying my best to create an environment where everyone can thrive. The vision for OCS is rooted in these values, ensuring we are a company that supports and uplifts all our colleagues. This vision is vital to building the best teams, built on a culture of trust, respect, unity, and empowerment, recognising and developing individual strengths, promoting collaboration, and ensuring every team member feels valued and heard. This approach helps us deliver the best customer outcomes and creates a workplace where our colleagues can excel and grow together.

Closing

Finally, what is the most important takeaway you want readers to remember about OCS and its commitment to veterans?

The most important takeaway is that OCS supports veterans and the armed forces community. We value their skills and provide them with meaningful, rewarding careers. This commitment is a core part of who we are, and we will continue to strive for the best experience, productivity, practices, resilience, and outcomes for all our colleagues and communities.

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Steve Moore, Managing Director of Security Services UK and Ireland, Visits Scotland Team

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During a recent visit to the Scotland team, Steve Moore, the Managing Director of Security Services UK and Ireland, met with colleagues old and new and undertook a regional strategy meeting focusing on Scotland.

Our security colleagues in Scotland recently secured a strategically important retender for one of our largest customers. This achievement, which is a testament to their hard work and dedication, was a significant milestone for our team. Steve Moore’s visit provided the perfect opportunity to personally recognise and congratulate the team for their outstanding performance.

In addition to meeting the team, Steven also visited several unique customer sites across the country, viewing first-hand many site operations in action and speaking to our front-line colleagues. This allowed Steven to meet the many new colleagues who joined the business from Profile Security Services, which was acquired by OCS late last year.

Integrating one of the UK’s most prominent independent security specialists, Profile Security has meant a sizeable restructuring within our security business unit. Steven was keen to see how our colleagues were settling into these new structures and to ensure that our people and the places they operate are the best they can be.

The visit was a resounding success; we have strengthened relationships with our customers and the team and set a clear direction for future growth. With so much potential for expansion, the Scotland team can look forward to the future.

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Steven Moore

Managing Director – Security UK

Steve Moore’s visit culminated in a crucial strategy meeting with the new security business management team for Scotland, with Warren Edmundson, Relationship Director UK&I, also in attendance. This meeting, which was rich in learning points, set a clear direction and strategy for our business in Scotland. The visit marked an exciting time for our team, with numerous opportunities for growth and expansion across Scotland.

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OCS TRUE Pride Week 

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A core part of our TRUE Values — Trust, Respect, Unity and Empowerment — is creating a safe and vibrant space for the diverse lives of colleagues and that task takes every aspect of our TRUE Values to achieve. This June for Pride Month, we are proud to celebrate our colleagues who identify as members of the LGBTQIA+ community. 

TRUE Pride Week: A Celebration of Values 

As part of our celebration, we are kicking off the last week of June as “TRUE Pride Week” where we will be hosting activities, workshops and events to celebrate pride, with each day of the week reflecting a different value culminating in a day of fun and celebration. 

The Fellowship Framework: Supporting Colleagues 

As part of our commitment to inclusion, we’re introducing the Fellowship Framework through our CHROMA Network. This initiative aims to assist colleagues in their coming-out journey within the business. It is run through a buddy-up system which ensures no one faces this process alone. Whether sharing experiences, providing guidance, or simply being there, we’re here to support each other.  

Kristian Batten’s Insights 

To fly to the OCS flag, chairperson of the LGBTQ+ and Gender Identity network, Kristian Batten, recently spoke to Premises & Facilities Management Journal about the importance of organisations making meaningful and impactful strides towards diversity, equality and inclusion within their business and spoke about the work OCS does in that regard. To learn more about Kristian’s interview with PFM Magazine visit their website here.  

We’re proud to champion the LGBTQIA+ community within the business, fostering unity and celebration of all our colours. Happy Pride! 

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International Women in Engineering Day: Giorgia Baker

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Giorgia Baker, in her role as the Account Director on a variety of OCS’s local government contracts from the City of London to Croydon, holds a pivotal position overseeing critical sites for Boroughs across London. Notably, she is responsible for managing key locations such as Courts and Police, The Barbican Centre, Royal Parks and other local Borough Portfolios. 

Giorgia’s career spans diverse industries and countries and she has worked with a high-profile customer base. To celebrate International Women in Engineering Day, we sat down with Giorgia to delve into her professional journey thus far, exploring the factors that have shaped her career as a woman in the challenging field of hard services.

Giorgia Baker has enjoyed an illustrious career, fueled by her determination and foresight. Her career in facilities management spans 28 years, a journey that, like many other FM professionals, she fell into. Starting in estate management, she transitioned into property management, marking the beginning of her journey. She soon completed her IWFM qualification, formerly known as the British Industry Facilities Management qualification. In 2021, she was awarded the prestigious IWFM chartered status, demonstrating her excellence as a professional and expert in the industry.

However, Giorgia didn’t start in hard services. After achieving great success managing a range of soft services—from cleaning, catering and security to pest control—and winning local awards in many instances, she decided it was time for a new challenge. Thus, she was drawn to hard services. “It was the natural next step for me to invest in something else and answer new questions. How does a building design work? How does the air conditioning flow? Where do you put the pipes? Where do you put the wiring? How do you deal with the exhaust waste in gas production? It also has a completely different set of legislative regulations. I felt drawn in and excited by the challenge to answer these new questions.”

The path to hard services was not easily forged. Being a woman in a male-dominated sector presented its challenges, but Giorgia faced them with an acute focus towards her goal. “To break through, I had to persistently knock on doors and create opportunities. Unlike those with technical qualifications, such as electricians, I didn’t fit the traditional mould. Despite not being male or technically qualified, I immersed myself in learning beyond my day job. I became a fierce advocate, explaining complex concepts like boiler functionality and HVAC systems. Managing assets, considering life cycles, and navigating legal compliance—all from a female perspective—required difficult conversations.”

Undeterred, she soldiered on. She takes pride in her work and celebrates the diverse buildings she has managed. “I’ve had the privilege of working with some truly incredible buildings and spaces. I’ve taken on global roles in the past due to the diverse career I have forged, earning the label ‘globally experienced.’ I’ve managed office moves in Hong Kong virtually, I’ve done and seen so much, and I feel proud and grateful for that.” But one thing remains close to her heart: seeing her team thrive and grow. “My pride lies in team management and colleague development. Working with people brings me immense joy—I thrive on developing others.”

Her path to joining OCS was an equally interesting one. Having started her relationship with OCS, then Atalian Servest, as a customer, she was drawn in by the team’s sheer dedication to work. Reflecting on the time, she says,

“I really enjoyed the way we worked the contract together. It was an outstanding relationship. When you have the experience of working with people who go those many miles extra, there’s something in it. There’s something that draws you into that, and that’s what led me to OCS. So far, it has been one of the best places I’ve ever worked.”

For the future of the industry, Giorgia remains curious and ready to adapt, foreseeing many changes on the horizon. “The influence of AI in our industry intrigues me. We’ll need to navigate this transformation and find ways to explain how AI and robots can effectively manage estates. Already, we’ve seen cleaning machines making an impact.” She also believes the industry still has loose threads to tie up in the aftermath of the pandemic. 

She is passionate about seeing more women in the industry flourish. When asked what her advice would be for women interested in hard services, she says, “Make it your business to understand your business. Get qualified—it opens doors to valuable networks and contacts. Attend everything you can, even if it’s unfamiliar. Whether it’s an emergency call-out or a planned preventative maintenance (PPM), dive into understanding the assets. The Institute of Workplace Facilities Management (IWFM) is an excellent resource, and there are international counterparts now, including one in Australia.

“Stay curious, get qualified, and actively engage—it’s your business to be involved!”

Giorgia’s journey is a beacon of inspiration for future generations of women in the facilities management industry. Her tenacity and focus have led her to a thriving career, weaving through the various pockets and sideroads of the industry, facing challenges and innovating as she went along.

International Women in Engineering Day: Victoria Thursfield, Account Director

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Victoria Thursfield, in her role as the Account Director on OCS’s Government Property Agency (GPA) contract, holds a pivotal position overseeing critical sites for the UK government. Notably, she is responsible for managing key locations. Victoria’s career spans diverse industries and countries, and she has worked with high-profile clientele. We sat down with Victoria to delve into her professional journey thus far, exploring the factors that have shaped her career as a woman in the challenging field of hard services.

Victoria’s entry into the facilities management (FM) business was serendipitous. Her career trajectory began in the catering industry, with a graduate job at Compass and a stint at the food chain Pret-A-Manger. Her rapid ascent within Pret-A-Manger led her to establish the business in Hong Kong, where she spent three years. “We needed to be quite self-sufficient because you didn’t have the support of the UK business. I think that was a good grounding for then working in FM,” she recalls.

Upon her return to the UK, Victoria’s CV found its way to the desk of a managing director of a leading FM business. This marked her foray into the FM world, where she initially managed the retail sector. As she gained experience and made her mark within the company, she took on more accounts, eventually leading her to engineering, marking a new chapter in her career. Despite not being an engineer herself, Victoria pursued an interest she always knew was there. “My father is a civil engineer, so I think there’s always been a bit of interest there,” she shares.

Victoria has spent a total of 19 years within the FM industry, strengthening and developing her expertise, and building a strong network. She joined OCS in October 2023, where she now oversees the technical services contract for GPA. She thrives on the dynamism of the FM industry, stating, “No day is ever the same.” On joining OCS she says, “I’ve now been here six months and I can tell it’s ultimately about the people, OCS say people are at the heart of what they do and that feels true, you know, OCS delivers its values throughout. Despite my short time here, I feel like my voice will be heard, which is quite comforting. To be so new in a significantly significant sized company, I still feel I have influence and will be listened to and that’s a valuable thing.” She also particularly enjoys setting up new teams and developing people, a task she is currently undertaking on the GPA contract.

However, Victoria’s switch to engineering has not been without its challenges. As a woman in a male-dominated field, she often found herself the only woman in the room. Despite this, she credits her supportive and receptive teams for helping her navigate these challenges. She remains hopeful and proactive in recruiting more women into hard services, working with social value practitioners and attending career fairs to promote hard services as a career option for young women.

In her current role within the hard services division, Victoria is excited about the future of OCS. “I think we have some very challenging and ambitious targets and it’s quite an exciting time to join,” she says. She wants women curious about hard services to know that there’s nothing stopping them from diving in. “It’s not all about knowing how a fan coil unit works, or what happens in a plant room, it’s about not being afraid to ask questions,” she advises.

Victoria’s journey is a testament to her resilience and adaptability. From her early days in the catering industry to her current role in FM, she has consistently demonstrated her ability to thrive in new environments and take on challenges head-on. Her story serves as an inspiration for women looking to break barriers in traditionally male-dominated fields.

OCS Appoints David De Santiago as Group AI & Digital Services Director 

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OCS is pleased to announce the appointment of David De Santiago as our new Group AI & Digital Services Director. In this pivotal role, David will spearhead the strategy and execution of cutting-edge digital solutions that harness the power of artificial intelligence (AI), data analytics, and Internet of Things (IoT) devices. His mission is to drive innovation, enhance operational efficiency, and create measurable impact across OCS’s front-line operations, benefiting colleagues and customers alike. 

David De Santiago brings a wealth of experience to OCS, having spent over 17 years in the technology industry. His impressive track record includes leadership roles in both start-ups and large global organisations across the private and public sectors. Notably, David has been instrumental in building corporate market presence, shaping digital strategy, and executing transformation initiatives. 

I am thrilled to join OCS and lead the charge in leveraging AI and digital advancements to revolutionise our operations. Together, we will redefine industry standards and create tangible value for our customers and stakeholders.

David De Santiago

Group AI & Digital Services Director

Before joining OCS, David served as the Global Head of Digital Innovation and Transformation at British American Tobacco (BAT). During his tenure, he established an Innovation Centre of Excellence and a global innovation programme that impacted over 40,000 employees. His strategic partnerships with big tech companies and collaborations with start-ups and venture capital ecosystems have been pivotal in driving BAT’s transformation agenda and growth strategies. 

David’s passion lies at the intersection of AI, platform business models, and disruptive technologies. He actively engages with a community of enthusiasts through his blog, InPromptYou.com, where he shares insights and learns from fellow thought leaders. As a positive and inspirational leader, David champions human-centred design and lean start-up methodologies, fostering a culture of innovation within organisations. 

We are confident that David’s vision and expertise will propel the company toward new horizons, reinforcing its commitment to excellence and innovation. 

City Apprentices Volunteer at Golders Hill Zoo

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Overview: Robert and Harry, two technical services colleagues from the City of London contract, participated in a volunteering day at Golders Hill Zoo along with other City colleagues. The group was divided into four teams, and Robert and Harry rotated through various initiatives aimed at enhancing the zoo’s facilities.

Initiatives and Impact: Robert and Harry helped with sanding, removing signage and weeding in the Butterfly House. They installed a liner in the pond, added soil and rocks, and also created a waterfall feature with pea shingle and pebbles. In the garden, they sanded and painted structures, pruned buddleia plants, and constructed a bug hotel. For animal enrichment, Robert and Harry built a feeder for the donkeys and a hammock for the cats. They also assisted with weeding in the Butterfly House again, sanding and painting additional garden structures, and adding pea shingle and pebbles to further enhance the pond area.

Social Value Delivered:

Community Engagement: The volunteering day fostered a sense of community and social responsibility for Robert and Harry. They had the opportunity to contribute to the improvement of a local zoo, strengthening the bond between the City and its surrounding areas.

Environmental Stewardship: By participating in initiatives focused on enhancing the zoo’s facilities and creating habitats for various species, Robert and Harry demonstrated their commitment to environmental conservation and promoting biodiversity.

Skills Development: They also gained hands-on experience in tasks such as gardening, construction, and animal enrichment. These practical skills can be valuable in their future careers and personal lives.

Animal Welfare: The efforts of Robert, Harry, and their fellow volunteers directly contributed to improving the living conditions and enrichment opportunities for the animals at Golders Hill Zoo, supporting animal welfare initiatives.

 

Volunteer working on a project at the zoo, with colleagues observing and offering support.

Conclusion

The volunteering day at Golders Hill Zoo was a rewarding experience for our two volunteers. Their efforts embodied the spirit of social value by actively engaging with the local community and contributing to environmental conservation efforts. Through hands-on tasks like gardening, construction, and creating enrichment for the animals, they had the chance to develop practical skills that will undoubtedly serve them well in their future endeavours. Moreover, the opportunity to work in teams and rotate through various initiatives fostered a collaborative environment, nurturing teamwork and cooperation. Importantly, their dedication and hard work directly supported animal welfare initiatives, enhancing the living conditions and enrichment opportunities for the zoo’s inhabitants. This volunteering experience not only benefited the zoo but also provided Robert, Harry, and their peers with valuable personal and professional growth opportunities.

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OCS Director of Data Cabling and Networks Appointed as New SELECT President 

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We are pleased to announce that Mike Stark, OCS Director of Data Cabling and Networks has been appointed President of Scotland’s largest construction industry trade association, SELECT. 

Mike has spent 44 years in the electrical industry, with 40 of those years in continued service at OCS, starting at Arthur McKay as a qualified electrician in June 1984 to his current role. 

He was confirmed as the new SELECT President at the association’s AGM at the Doubletree Edinburgh North Queensferry on Thursday, June 6, taking over from Alistair Grant. 

During his two years in the Presidential hot-seat, Mike said he is looking forward to meeting SELECT members to learn about issues in the electrical industry and to maintaining the association’s ongoing campaign to have the role of an electrician recognised as a profession. 

In his role as president, Mike is looking to target three key concerns: the growing appetite and electricity demands from new technology like AI and electric vehicles, the regulation of electricians as a profession and the push for more apprentices to secure the profession’s future. 

On the demand for electricity, Mike said: “AI is becoming more embedded in our everyday lives, from digital assistants and chatbots helping us on websites to navigation apps and autocorrect on our mobile phones. And it is going to become even more prevalent in the near future.  

“Data centres, which have many servers as their main components, need electrical power to survive. It is therefore only natural that any talk about building a data centre should begin with figuring out the electrical needs and how to satisfy those power requirements.  

“At present, the UK’s National Grid appears to be holding its own, with current increases being met with renewable energy systems. But as technology advances and systems such as AI are introduced, there will be a time when the grid will struggle to support the demand.” 

We congratulate Mike on his appointment and wish him a successful tenure. To learn more about Mike’s new role and his campaigns within SELECT visit the campaign page at www.select.org.uk/. 

OCS Secures Contract Extension with Birmingham Airport

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We are pleased to announce that we have successfully secured a two-year contract extension to continue delivering essential cleaning services at Birmingham Airport. The scope of these services encompasses not only the airport terminals but also various other buildings, including external areas, winter gritting for terminal surroundings, washroom hygiene, and high-level window cleaning.

This contract extension is a direct result of our consistent service delivery to Birmingham Airport. Through a robust and collaborative partnership with the airport, we have demonstrated flexibility and cost-consciousness, positioning ourselves as the ideal long-term solution for the airport’s premises.

We are pleased to extend our partnership with OCS. Their consistent service delivery and flexibility have been instrumental in maintaining the high standards we expect at Birmingham Airport. This sustained working relationship ensures that our passengers and facilities continue to benefit from OCS’s expertise.

Deane Arnold

Terminal Operations Manager — Birmingham Airport

Building upon our previous five-year contract (which began in May 2019), this extension will see us continue our services until April 2026. Notably, during the initial contract, we introduced robotics into our service package, providing an innovative and efficient solution.

Furthermore, this extension expands the contract’s scope, creating additional employment opportunities with a focus on recruiting from the local Birmingham area. We remain committed to maintaining exceptional service standards while contributing positively to the airport’s operations and community.

We are thrilled to continue our successful partnership with Birmingham Airport. This contract extension reflects our commitment to delivering exceptional services and maintaining a positive working relationship.

Mark Chambers

Operations Director Airport Services — OCS

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Charleigh Churchill Wins Corporate Receptionist of the Year!

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We are thrilled to announce that Charleigh Churchill, the exceptional Front of House (FoH) receptionist at amika guest services, has been awarded the prestigious Corporate Receptionist of the Year award. Charleigh’s dedication, creativity, and ambition have truly set her apart, making her a standout choice for this accolade.

Embodying Excellence

Charleigh is personable, creative, and ambitious, which is evident in everything she does. She is dedicated to skill development, knowledge sharing, and proactive collaboration with her colleagues. By consistently delivering exceptional service and driving positive results, Charleigh has become an invaluable member of the amika team.

Her proactive initiatives include rolling out toolbox talks, training inductions, and the ‘Amika’s Best Practice Collection’—a comprehensive guide for events and engagement. This guide has been instrumental in onboarding new starters and enhancing the overall workplace environment.

Completely driven by goals and constantly pursuing excellence in every aspect of my work, Charleigh’s primary focus is on providing outstanding customer experiences, leveraging each situation as an opportunity to acquire valuable knowledge for ongoing success, whilst constantly outperforming her high standards.

“My managers have been completely instrumental in shaping my career and providing me with opportunities I never thought were possible. Their leadership and vision are incredibly appreciated. And I just want to say Thank you for making my ideas feel valued and encouraging me to step outside the box and get creative. I’m thankful to be a part of this team and beyond proud to be flying the flag high for Amika Guest Services and OCS in the CROTY Awards 2024.”

Interests and Inspirations

Outside of her professional responsibilities, Charleigh has a passion for trying new things, baking, and spending time surrounded by friends and loved ones. Her willingness to go the extra mile for others is a testament to her character and commitment to making a positive impact both in and out of the workplace.

The Journey to Recognition

Charleigh’s journey to winning this award has been rigorous and well-deserved. She impressed the judges at every stage, her achievements thus far highlight her exceptional capabilities and dedication to her role.

We look forward to celebrating Charleigh’s continued success and are confident that she will continue to inspire and elevate those around her. Congratulations, Charleigh, on this remarkable achievement!

Transforming Spaces: Explore the Future of Public Sector Facilities Management

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Discover the future of facilities management with our new integrated public sector facilities management. OCS and Atalian Servest merged in 2022, creating a public sector FM services powerhouse. With over 50 contracts and 7,400 colleagues across 1,150 estates, we offer a range of consistently delivered facilities management, including cleaning, catering, security, hard services, and logistics. From healthcare to education, we’re transforming spaces and making people and places the best they can be.

Watch our video and join us on this exciting journey!

OCS Royal Papworth Hospital Team Win for Partnership Award!

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We’re thrilled to announce that our team at Royal Papworth, along with partners Equitix, Skanska, and Royal Papworth Hospital NHS Trust, won the Partnership Award in the ‘Best Operational – Healthcare’ category. This award recognises our consistently delivered service and sustainable partnership with our customer and other facility management providers on-site. The OCS team at Royal Papworth successfully navigated a rigorous review process in 2023, ensuring continued excellence in service without disruption.

The win acknowledges the challenges posed by the demanding contract, which subject to heightened scrutiny. OCS, together with industry partners, worked closely with the Trust to manage the contract, implementing robust reporting and compliance while valuing and prioritising partnership. Positive patient and employee feedback has demonstrated the effectiveness of this collaboration.

Collaboratively, the teams established the Team Royal Papworth Hospital Charter and a Joint Efficiency Group, addressing recurring challenges and enabling continuous improvement. By fostering transparency with industry partners and key stakeholders, the OCS team tailored services to the unique needs of the facilities.

Congratulations to the Royal Papworth Team!

Winning this award is a testament to our commitment to excellence. Our collaborative approach, transparent service delivery, and strong partnerships have allowed us to consistently exceed expectations. We’re proud of the positive impact we’ve made, and this award reflects the dedication of our entire team

Jo Senders

PFI Director – Public Sector