In my role within the Estates Department at Gower College Swansea, I provide administrative support that ensures smooth facilities operations, giving me a solid understanding of the challenges in facilities management. Last year, I completed the IWFM Level 2 Certificate in Facilities Services Principles and plan to start Level 3 this year. Joining the committee will help me broaden my sector knowledge, contribute to its future, and develop professionally through engagement with industry experts. My degree in Surface Pattern Design has equipped me with creativity, attention to detail, and insight into how design impacts user experience—skills that complement my administrative expertise and offer fresh perspectives on workplace aesthetics, branding, and sustainability.

Ian Christopher is the Volunteer Partnership Manager within the Memberships & Partnerships team at IWFM. In this role, he works closely with volunteers, committees, and strategic partners to support engagement, collaboration, and the delivery of member‑focused activity across the Institute.

Ian plays an active role in coordinating community and committee initiatives, working across forums and leadership groups to ensure strong connections between members, volunteers, and organisational priorities. He is closely involved in reviewing community activity, supporting strategic forums, and contributing to ongoing development across IWFM’s volunteer landscape.

Through his partnership‑focused approach, Ian supports the effective delivery of events, forums, and collaborative initiatives that add value for members and stakeholders alike.

In her role at IWFM, Melissa contributes to efforts that drive insights and transformation within the profession. 

Before joining IWFM, Melissa accumulated over 15 years of experience at a market research fieldwork agency, where she gained valuable expertise in data and analysis and managed a diverse array of projects for public and private sector clients, both in the UK and internationally. 

Melissa also has a background as an analyst with corporate and consultancy experience, having worked at Scottish Power and Wood Mackenzie. 

Sarah has spent over 30 years working in and around the property sector in local government; as a delivery/ operational director and as an interim manager and consultant. Sarah is a Certified Member of the Institute of Workplace and Facilities Management (CIWFM) as well as a Chartered Manager, Fellow Member of the Chartered Management Institute and the Institute of Consulting.

Sarah is passionate about excelling in leadership and has a track record in delivery within and transformation of property services and compliance management as well as PMO, capital projects and strategic asset management.  

With more than 25 years in FM, I've had the unique opportunity to build my expertise from the ground up, starting with reception services and culminating in my current position as a Workplace Services Strategic Programme Lead. I’m passionate about continuous improvement and leveraging innovation to ensure our services have a tangible, positive impact on how people experience their workplace. I believe a collaborative; forward-thinking approach is key to effective facilities management.

Emma is a Professional Development Advisor at IWFM, bringing extensive experience from her previous roles in Human Resources within the NHS and Citizens Advice. Emma is deeply committed to supporting others in their professional growth and to develop within the workplace and facilities management profession, leveraging her expertise to guide professionals in their careers.

I’m Thomas Maddock, Estates Manager at Gower College Swansea. I look after projects and the day-to-day operations at our sites across Swansea. Relatively new to Facilities Management, I’m genuinely passionate about learning and have a goal to make a positive difference in the FM community.

Emma is an experienced Facilities Manager working within the education sector, where she ensures safe, efficient, and sustainable environments for staff and learners. Her role often involves supporting schools and further education settings that work with children and young people, requiring a strong focus on safeguarding, compliance, and creating spaces that foster positive outcomes.

Emma is passionate about promoting best practice in facilities management and supporting professional development across Wales. She actively contributes to initiatives that enhance collaboration and innovation within the industry, while championing community engagement and charitable projects.