Facility Rockstars | Open Doors and Open Minds: Derek Earp on Teamwork and Transparency

Open Doors and Open Minds: Derek Earp on Teamwork and Transparency

April 3, 2025 / 30:32/E56

How does transparency and teamwork drive success in facility management?

Derek Earp, Facilities Manager at UG2, talks about the power of open communication, teamwork, and leadership. Derek shares strategies like an open-door policy and group texts, offering real-world examples of collaboration leading to success. He also discusses his transition from engineering to management, the importance of safety protocols, and bridging the gap between IT and operational technology in building management. Plus, Derek reflects on his transformative experience at Mass Maritime Academy.

Takeaways:

Maintain Open Communication: Foster an open-door policy where team members feel comfortable discussing anything at any time, even after hours. This builds trust and ensures a steady communication flow.
Emphasize Teamwork: Make teamwork a core pillar of the organization. Encouraging a team mentality leads to more effective collaboration and goal achievement.
Lead by Example: Model the behaviors and attitudes you expect from your team. Leading by example can help re-engage even the most independent or disengaged employees.
Implement Daily Standup Meetings: Hold short daily meetings to keep the team aligned and focused. This promotes better communication and strengthens team cohesion.
Prioritize Safety: Integrate safety discussions into regular meetings and ensure all team members understand protocols. A strong safety culture helps prevent accidents and promotes well-being.
Leverage Technology: Use tools like group texts and CMMS systems to streamline communication and efficiently manage building operations.
Encourage Continuous Improvement: Foster a growth mindset by seeking new skills and refining processes. Learning from peers and researching equipment can drive ongoing improvement.

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