Optimising building design to enhance professional wellbeing. Utilising innovation to drive organisational change. Strategising to boost sustainability and EDI outcomes. 2024’s IWFM Impact Awards showcased workplace and facilities management’s (WFM) dynamic role in making organisations match fit for the new world of work.

In categories, spanning topics such as workplace experience, change management and technology, the sector’s leading annual event celebrated 19 winners from 95 finalists – including organisations, initiatives and professionals – that had demonstrated excellence.

2024’s Awards which took place on Monday 14 October at JW Marriott Grosvenor House London, also marked a first with the announcement of the Deborah Rowland Scholarship’s inaugural awardees, TJ Robinson and Paige Watts, presented by the prize’s namesake.

Hosted by actor, writer and comedian Stephen Mangan, around 900 attendees met to network, share sector insights and celebrate substantial progress over the year, both nationally and internationally. Around 50 judges comprised this year’s independent panel, chaired by Mark Griffiths and supported by Sarah Hodge.

IWFM Chair Mark Whittaker said ‘(the Awards) recognise and celebrate our profession’s work, namely the outstanding professionals who push our sector forward to achieve excellence and recognition for the critical services we provide.’ 

In keeping with its focus on sustainability, IWFM collaborated with JW Marriott and suppliers to ensure best practices were followed. A follow up ESG review of the event will benchmark it against other events. Positive outcomes to date include a carbon reduction of 15% on 2022’s event since IWFM implemented a vegetarian menu last year.

Reflecting on the Awards, IWFM CEO Linda Hausmanis stated: “It’s an absolute pleasure to reflect on this year’s Impact Awards. With nearly a thousand attendees, we were thrilled to celebrate excellence across our profession. This year, we had 19 categories and 95 outstanding finalists, each representing the best of what our field has to offer.

“As we’ve reviewed the finalists, several key themes have emerged that truly reflect the heart of our profession. Whether it’s the crucial role of workplace and facilities management in benefiting both people and buildings, the power of innovation in driving organisational change, or the focus on making a positive social impact—both within and beyond our organisations—the common thread tying it all together is dynamism. It’s about seizing the initiative and delivering excellence across the broad remit of our profession.

“I was delighted to see some of our sector’s brightest talent there, including our inaugural Deborah Rowland Scholarship awardees. I’d like to extend my warmest congratulations to TJ and Paige as they begin their exciting journeys, and I wish them the very best as they progress from here.

“I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to all our attendees, sponsors, winners, and the incredible teams who have made this evening such a success. We’ve celebrated many achievements tonight, and I look forward to another year of progress and innovation in our field.

“Here’s to continued excellence and growth.”