Giving back to FM: stories from IWFM volunteers
News
- Professional Performance
09 April 2026
IWFM volunteers play a vital role in supporting our Regions, Networks and Special interest groups. Our communities sit at the heart of the Institute, and it is our volunteers who help them thrive. Here, two of our volunteers share why they give their time and what they gain in return.
‘Volunteering lets me give back and keep learning’
Neil Fright, IWFM East Region Chair and CEO at Carbon Numbers
For Neil Fright, volunteering with IWFM is rooted in gratitude and a desire to give something back to the profession that shaped his career.
‘I am very grateful for the opportunity FM has given me. Along the way, a number of people helped me – volunteering lets me give something back, share my experiences, and learn new perspectives.’
Neil values the variety that volunteering brings, offering insight into areas beyond his day to day work.
‘From volunteering, I learn so much about areas that sit outside my working world. Seeing a chef use 100% of a butternut squash in a live demo while judging for the IWFM Impact Awards was brilliant. And meeting front-line workers is always amazing – their passion never fails to motivate.’
He also highlights the connections he has made through IWFM activity.
‘I’ve made lots of new connections - people I now regard as peers and friends. Volunteering lets different worlds collide.’
Reflecting on his own journey, Neil hopes his contribution helps others recognise the breadth of opportunity in FM.
‘I hope I’ve helped play a small part in creating a more professional industry. My own story shows that you can start on a helpdesk, on minimum wage, and grow in a fantastic field. The BIFM (now IWFM) qualifications gave me wings – they enabled me to go on and study for a master’s degree. Not bad for someone who started out inputting asset data in Maximo.’
His advice for anyone considering volunteering is clear and reassuring:
‘It’s motivating, everyone is very accommodating, and the time commitment is flexible.’
‘You gain as much as you give’
Helen Kenyon, IWFM People Development SIG Chair and General Manager at Skanska
For Helen Kenyon, volunteering has supported her professional development and strengthened her connection to the WFM community.
‘Volunteering with IWFM is important to me because it allows me to contribute to a profession that has given me a great deal throughout my career. It’s also a great way to stay connected to the wider FM community and be part of conversations shaping the future of the profession.’
Taking on leadership roles has been a key milestone.
‘Moving from Deputy Chair to Chair has been a real milestone. Through events and industry activities, I’ve been able to develop myself too – including speaking at a recent event, which really helped build my confidence in public speaking and presenting to industry peers.’
Helen particularly values supporting those beginning their careers.
‘One of the most rewarding parts has been meeting people just starting their careers in FM. Being able to share experiences and help others understand the career pathways into the profession is something I’ve really valued.’
Volunteering, she says, offers benefits that stretch beyond professional skills.
‘It has broadened my network, given me new perspectives, strengthened my leadership skills, and reminded me just how supportive the FM community can be.’
Her message to those thinking about stepping forward?
‘Even small contributions can make a difference – and you really do gain as much as you give.’
Thinking about volunteering with IWFM?
We are currently recruiting volunteers across several IWFM Regions, Special Interest Groups and Networks. Opportunities vary and may include support for events and CPD, member engagement activity, marketing and social media, outreach, or specialist topic areas.
If you are curious but would like to learn more, we encourage you to join one of our volunteer information sessions.
Upcoming information sessions
You can also register your interest in volunteering at any time by emailing [email protected]