The Facilities Management Association of New Zealand (FMANZ) honoured outstanding members at their awards gala last week. At the event, held at the ANZ Viaduct Events Centre, The Brian Happy Award for Facilities Manager of the Year was awarded to Phoenix Lavin. Phoenix is the design and construction interface and transition manager with Programmed Facility Management in Wellington.

FMANZ board member Veronika Harrison presented the award to Phoenix, saying, “This award recognises the outstanding performance by an individual working in the FM profession – someone who has applied their experience and knowledge to produce exceptional results within their facility, as well as demonstrating excellent personal qualities.”

Phoenix manages complex projects for public and private partnerships and her colleagues say she is a pivotal part of the team. New Zealand general manager of Programmed Facility Management, Brian Moreland, said, “Having originally started her career in construction, Phoenix brings with her the dual perspective of understanding the operational and strategic aspects of FM.” She is passionate about the industry and an advocate for diversity.

The Young Achiever of the Year award was given to Ashlee Jepson, a facilities manager with Precinct Properties in Wellington. Lauren Joyce, human resources manager at Precinct Properties, said, “Ashlee is a fantastic example of the future of facilities management professionals. She is highly engaged and committed to learning and developing in an industry that is ever-changing.”

Additionally, Argus Fire Protection took the inaugural Service Provider of the Year award. The FMANZ Awards programme was established in 2016 to celebrate the achievements of those within the industry and to promote the contribution of the industry to the public.