We’re proud to share the our latest Facilities Management Salary Survey, providing an in-depth insight into the evolving FM landscape. Based on responses from thousands of professionals across the UK, the report explores everything from salaries and qualifications to job satisfaction, work-life balance, and more. It’s packed with insights that we hope will help both FM professionals and employers make informed decisions in a fast-changing industry. Here are just a few of the key areas explored in the report:
Salaries and Roles
Overall, salaries in Facilities Management have seen modest increases—around 2.4% on average. However, when adjusted for inflation, this actually represents a slight real-terms decrease. Engineering roles stood out, seeing an 11% average salary jump, while Project Manager salaries spiked by nearly 20%, likely driven by short-term contracts and project-based work. As usual, there’s a big gap between high and low earners depending on the size, sector, and complexity of the role.
Workplace Trends
Hybrid working continues to gain traction. This year, 36% of respondents reported working in a hybrid setup, with 7% fully remote. Flexibility is no longer a perk—it’s becoming an expectation. We’re also seeing more temporary and contract work, reflecting both employer strategies and candidate preferences for flexible arrangements.
Diversity and Demographics
Facilities Management is still male-dominated (65%), but the good news is the gender gap is gradually narrowing. There’s been a slight but positive uptick in female representation, particularly in senior FM roles. However, women remain underrepresented in engineering positions. Age-wise, the sector continues to skew older, with limited new entrants under 35—something that poses long-term sustainability questions for the industry.
Qualifications and Career Paths
Education levels in FM are generally high. Over half of respondents hold qualifications at Level 4 or above, and MBA holders command the highest average salaries. That said, experience is still king—our data shows a strong correlation between years in the industry and earning potential. While formal qualifications are valued, they tend to matter more for progressing into senior roles than for getting a foot in the door.
Job Satisfaction and Motivation
Most FM professionals report being either satisfied or very satisfied in their roles, although the number of those who feel “very satisfied” has dipped slightly. Salary and work-life balance are the top motivators, with more people placing a premium on well-being and flexibility—even at the expense of higher pay. This trend aligns with broader shifts in workplace culture following the pandemic.
The Future of FM
One clear takeaway: the power dynamic has shifted. Employees today have more leverage, and businesses that fail to offer flexibility and support risk losing top talent. The FM profession is becoming more strategic, more tech-driven, and more people-focused—and that’s a good thing. At Maxwell Stephens, we’re excited to see how the industry continues to grow and evolve in 2024 and beyond.