In the last week of April, a team from our new Facilities Management (FM) partner, OCS, joined a series of drop-in sessions on campus to introduce staff members to some of the benefits we can expect from the new contract.
Over 60 colleagues attended the events in person, where Scott Noble (Head of Service Delivery) began by outlining the robust, ethical procurement process that led to the appointment of OCS and the thorough understanding their bid displayed of Sussex’s unique strengths, challenges and values.
Rebecca Nash (Senior Contracts Manager, Hard FM) then talked through some of the improvements that the new contract will deliver in response to feedback raised by our campus community back in 2023.
Increased and improved communication
One of the most common requests staff made in the earlier consultation was to improve response speed from the helpdesk. Staff also wanted more frequent updates about the progress of their work requests, and a better understanding of any planned works in their areas of campus.
In response, OCS will introduce:
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An improved, hybrid helpdesk, with 24/7 cover and all tasks captured
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More ways of contacting the helpdesk, including via QR codes around the campus
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Automatic email updates to allow users to track the progress of high-priority jobs.
These measures will build on the significant progress that has already been made following the introduction of our new Facilities Managers and Co-ordinators last year.
Better integration of FM into the flow of the academic year
Academic colleagues asked for more opportunities to engage with those running FM services to minimise disruption to academic activity on campus.
In response, OCS will introduce:
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A monthly Performance Management Report incorporating customer satisfaction metrics
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A Continuous Improvement Plan created and updated in collaboration with senior representatives from the University representing the academic community.
Environmental sustainability
Our 2023 consultation showed that staff overwhelmingly support Sussex’s goal of being one of the most sustainable universities in the world.
OCS will boost our efforts further by introducing:
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A utility reporting and advisory service to monitor energy use
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Improved waste management and recycling initiatives
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An annual carbon impact assessment
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Extended chemical-free cleaning methods and water use reduction initiatives.
Additional changes to come
Staff also wanted our FM services to deliver value for money and to provide development opportunities and for staff and students.
OCS have committed to providing:
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Cost optimisation over time
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Part time and holiday jobs for students
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Supported internships
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Employability sessions for final year students
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Mental health training for all FM staff in student facing roles.
What comes next?
A team from OCS are now on campus, working alongside SEF and Estates colleagues to ensure a smooth handover on 1 July.
We will be looking at all the above topics in more detail in the coming weeks so sign up for the Transforming Sussex newsletter or join the Better Campus group on Viva Engage to stay updated. If you have any questions about our FM services, email bettercampus@sussex.ac.uk, or visit the FM project page on Staff Hub