In the spirit of Women’s History Month, we are thrilled to shed light on the inspiring journey of Jen Bates, Sector Managing Director at OCS. A testament to the power of determination and resilience, Jen is one of the many dynamic women who are driving OCS to new heights with their experience and knowledge. Her story provides a beacon of inspiration in an industry where, according to IFMA, women occupy only 15% of senior leadership roles globally.
Jen’s foray into facilities management was born out of a transformative phase in her life. After a successful 12-year stint in the hospitality industry and an 18-month maternity break following the birth of her second child, Jen found herself at a crossroads. A local advertisement for an area manager position in a contract cleaning business based in Surrey presented a new opportunity. Jen seized it and proved herself an invaluable asset.
Her career trajectory in facilities management was steep. Within 18 months, Jen had made significant strides in her role, taking on the responsibility of managing a partnership contract with John Lewis that spanned around ten stores. This achievement marked her first promotion.
But Jen was just getting started. Her career continued to skyrocket, and a couple of years after her first promotion, she was elevated to the position of Operations Director. This role saw her managing all Waitrose stores and about 80% of John Lewis stores nationwide. Her exceptional leadership skills saw the retail sector of her then company thriving under her watch, ultimately facilitating her final promotion to Divisional Director for Retail.
After twelve years of growth and progress, Jen decided it was time for a change of scenery. She joined Servest, which has since been absorbed into OCS. Reflecting on that decision, Jen shares, “After 12 years I decided to make a move and I joined Servest in April 2014, taking on the CPS division. I took this sector from £20 million to £80 million within a few years, retaining some customers for a second or third term despite competitive tenders.”
Jen was instantly captivated by the facilities management industry. Its versatility, teamwork, and problem-solving aspects resonated with her. “Every day is different. Yes, we have challenges but it’s the solutions that I love to work out with my team,” she says, underlining her problem-solving ethos.
Though Jen’s career has been decorated with numerous successes, it wasn’t without its fair share of challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic, in particular, posed a significant hurdle. Yet, she navigated this crisis with resilience and determination, leading her team to keep their customers operational during such a challenging period.
I am very fortunate to be working with someone like Jen Bates, she is a courageous leader who enthuses her team as well as her peers. I have watched Jen develop over the years since joining our business in 2014 with admiration and respect. It has not been easy for Jen who has frequently stepped up to overcome complex challenges under difficult circumstances. Due to her leadership and incredible work ethic, Jen always finds a way to deliver success. Jen has transformed her sectors into a more diverse environment, another area which we can all learn from.
Sean Fisher
Chief Executive Officer Cleaning
Despite the numerous challenges, Jen cherishes the relationships she has built over the years the most. She is proud of the team around her, crediting their collective effort for the success they have achieved.
Jen acknowledges the persisting gender gap in the industry, especially in senior leadership roles, but she is optimistic about the future. The Institute of Workplace and Facilities Management (IWFM) conducted a study revealing a gradual increase in women in leadership roles in the facilities management industry in the UK, moving from 32% in 2020 to 34% in 2021. OCS is firmly committed to this cause, and Jen herself is keen to encourage more women to consider a career in facilities management. “I think it caters to all. The industry is still struggling with women in more senior roles, but we have a lot to give. It suits anyone wanting to do their best and be flexible, it’s a great career path for young people. I started as an area manager and hard work and people skills have greatly helped my career.”
As she nears her 25th year in the industry, Jen Bates is a shining example of success in the facilities management sector. Her journey is a testament to her dedication and inspiring leadership, proving that with hard work, determination, and a strong team, meaningful progress can be made. We are incredibly proud and honoured to have such a brilliant woman as part of the OCS team, leading our colleagues, supporting our customers, and helping to make people and places the best they can be.