FM Spotlight David Myers, IFM Lead: North America

David Myers is a Facilities Operations Professional at JLL with over 20 years of experience in corporate real estate, logistic warehousing, and construction project management. He is a proven effective team manager with strong communication and client relationship skills.

David worked as an operations manager at the startup Ferring Pharmaceuticals managing the facilities team on its 25-acre campus.  David then joined JLL in 2016, as a Regional Facilities Manager on the Amazon account In this position he managed 21 logistics stations totaling 1.5 million square feet in his portfolio. In 2018, David joined the Diageo account overseeing 26 corporate real estate offices and manufacturing plants totaling 2.5 million square feet in the U.S and Canada.

David received a diploma in Electrical Engineering Technology at Union County Vocational school in New Jersey where he holds a Black Seal Boiler Engineering License. He currently belongs to the New Jersey Chapter of the International Facility Management Association (IFMA) as Co-chairman of the Communications Committee and member of the Professional Development Committee while pursuing a Facility Management Professional Certificate.

How and when did you get your start in Facilities Management?
I began my career in electrical maintenance and found my way into a facility manager position without knowing much about the field of facility management. However, once I delved into learning more about the skill set and responsibilities required to be a successful FM, I knew that my electrical and pipe fitting background and project management experience would be an asset.

At what point in your career did you begin taking facilities management classes and receive your designations?
I decided to enroll in the FMP program this year during the COVID pandemic. Although I’ve relied heavily on my experience during this time, in order to continue to grow and learn, I’ve enrolled in the online credential program. I hope to complete the program in 2021 and then enroll in another credential.

What is the biggest lesson you have learned in your career?
In order to grow professionally, it’s important to take the initiative and get out of your comfort zone. I used to avoid doing this but quickly realized that if you want to learn and advance you HAVE to take on new projects, volunteer to do the things no one else wants to do, and assist your leadership teams in all new endeavors.

What value do you feel NJ IFMA has to offer young professionals and why should they become involved in the organization?
Networking! Networking in the FM world is one of the most beneficial aspects of NJ IFMA. No matter if it’s a personnel issue, a structural problem, or a vendor recommendation, there has been at least one person who has come across the same scenario and can assist you with problem solving and sharing best practices.

Do you have a mentor or role model in your career that has helped guide you on your path?
I’ve had multiple professionals mentor me during the course of my career who have set exemplary standards. Kathryn Burkhardt, who has been a NJ IFMA member since 2017, has always been available to coach me and offer advice on various topics such as hiring recommendations and career decisions.

What advice would you give someone new coming into the industry?
Network, ask questions, and build relationships with people who know more than you. Facility management is an ever-changing and evolving industry, so learn as much as you can from the people around you. Join IFMA groups and IFMA events to expand your knowledge base.  Learn as much as you can about managing people including effective managerial practices, communication approaches, and even about the psychology of organizations and their culture. All of this will provide a foundation to help you build a strong and successful team.