'When We Empower Others, We Strengthen the Whole Organisation': Patricia Dias on Her Career Journey in Facilities Management

International Women’s Day 2026 highlights the theme “Give to Gain,” recognising that progress happens when individuals and organisations actively support the advancement of women.

By sharing knowledge, creating opportunities and championing diverse leadership, industries can build stronger and more inclusive workplaces.

In facilities management (FM), a sector that has historically been male-dominated, this message is increasingly relevant as more women step into leadership roles and contribute their skills, experience and perspectives to shaping the future of the industry.

In this article, Patricia Dias recounts her career path from cleaner to Key Account Manager at Bidvest Noonan, gaining her IWFM Level 5 Diploma at Portobello Institute along the way.

Patricia's Career Path

Can you tell us about your career journey into facilities management (FM)? What first attracted you to the industry?

I started in the industry almost 10 years ago as a cleaner and worked my way up step by step. What first attracted me was the people side of the job. I’ve always enjoyed working with people and being part of a service that makes a real difference in someone’s daily environment. Over time, I realised that FM is much more than cleaning or maintenance. It’s about creating spaces that work well for everyone.

Facilities management has traditionally been seen as a male-dominated sector. What has your experience been like as a woman working in FM?

My experience has actually been very positive. Within Bidvest Noonan, many leadership roles in my sector are held by strong women, including my Director and Managing Director. I can clearly see more women stepping into management roles at all levels. I’ve always felt supported and encouraged to grow, and that makes a huge difference.

What do you enjoy most about working in facilities management?

I love how dynamic it is. No two days are the same. It can be challenging, but that’s what makes it exciting. You’re constantly solving problems, improving services, and supporting both clients and teams. There’s never a dull moment, and I really enjoy that fast-paced environment.

How has your career progressed since entering the industry? Have you found that FM offers strong opportunities for development and progression into senior roles?

My career progressed because I had the right support and I was willing to commit fully. I started as a cleaner and made it clear to my managers that I wanted to grow. I showed dedication, took on responsibility, and invested in my development. FM definitely offers strong opportunities for progression if you are proactive and open to learning.

Education and Development as Catalysts For Career Progress

What motivated you to study facilities management at Portobello Institute, and why did you choose Portobello for your qualification?

Portobello has a strong reputation in the industry, and many of my colleagues completed their qualifications there. There is also a long-standing relationship between Bidvest Noonan and Portobello Institute. It felt like the right place to formalise my experience and deepen my knowledge.

How did your experience at Portobello support your confidence and career progression within facilities management?

It allowed me to connect theory with the practical experience I had built over the years. I could apply what we were learning directly to my day-to-day work. That gave me confidence and a clearer understanding of the sector. It strengthened my decision-making and helped me see the bigger picture of FM.

In your view, is facilities management a strong career choice for women today? Why?

Absolutely. FM requires organisation, communication, planning, and resilience. All strengths that many women naturally bring to the table. It’s also a growing sector with real leadership opportunities. There is space to develop, to lead, and to make an impact.

Women in Facilities Management

Have you seen positive changes in gender representation or opportunities for women in FM during your career?

Yes, I have. More and more women are taking on senior management roles, and their presence is becoming stronger across the industry. I see growing confidence and visibility for women in FM, which is very encouraging.

What challenges, if any, have you faced as a woman in the industry and how did you overcome them?

Personally, I haven’t experienced direct prejudice in my company. Bidvest Noonan has been the only FM company I’ve worked for in Ireland, and I have always felt supported. Throughout my journey, I’ve had strong female leaders around me, which created a positive and empowering environment.

What strengths do you think women bring to facilities management roles?

Women often bring strong organisational skills, emotional intelligence, resilience, and attention to detail. FM requires balancing people, budgets, services, expectations and “patience and planning” are key. The ability to lead with both structure and empathy is a powerful combination.

Advice & Inspiration for Women in Facilities Management

What advice would you give to women who are considering a career in facilities management?

Go for it! It’s a dynamic environment where you’re constantly learning. If you enjoy responsibility and problem-solving, FM can be incredibly rewarding. It’s a sector full of opportunity.

What would you say to someone who hasn’t yet considered facilities management as a career option?

Keep an open mind. FM is much broader than people think. It combines operations, leadership, strategy, and people management. If you like variety and want a career where you can truly see the impact of your work, it’s worth exploring.

International Women’s Day 2026

This year’s International Women’s Day theme focuses on ‘Give to Gain’. What does this theme and/or International Women’s Day mean to you personally and professionally?

To me, “Give to Gain” means that when you invest in others, whether through mentoring, supporting your team, or sharing knowledge, you grow as well. Professionally, I see this every day. When we empower others, we strengthen the whole organisation. Personally, it reminds me that growth comes from contribution. The more we lift others, the more we all move forward together.

Looking Ahead

What excites you most about the future of facilities management?

The sector is constantly evolving, especially with sustainability, technology, and smarter ways of working. FM is becoming more strategic and recognised as a key part of business success.

What are your own professional goals for the coming years?

I want to expand our Education portfolio within Bidvest Noonan, retain and strengthen our current contracts, and continue developing our teams so they are ready for any challenges or new opportunities that arise. Investing in people is always a priority, because strong teams are the foundation of a successful future.

Final Thoughts

Is there anything else you would like to share about your experience as a woman in facilities management?

Starting as a cleaner and progressing into management has shown me that FM truly rewards commitment and growth. As a woman and an immigrant, building my career in Ireland, I feel especially proud to represent a sector that is evolving and opening real opportunities for everyone. My journey proves that with dedication, support, and continuous learning, progression is absolutely possible!

For those looking to invest in their own growth within the sector, Portobello Institute’s facilities management programmes support professionals at every stage of their career.