With over 27 years of experience in Facilities Management Procurement, Maxcene Crowe assists organizations in making an impact through education, knowledge-sharing, and the implementation of strategies and solutions for facilities management and procurement. Maxcene holds the Chartered Institute of Workplace and Facilities Management (CIWFM) credential and is also the author of the book “Mobilisation Mastery,” which imparts insights and best practices for mobilizing supply chains and operational teams across EMEA.
Maxcene’s journey began in service at a young age, starting in the Retail industry within a clothing factory, handling administration and product fulfillment. After pursuing a BA Honours in Business and Psychology from University, Maxcene entered an Estates Management department, taking on roles such as Contracts Administrator and Lease Car Manager. This path eventually led to a career in facilities management, with the initial role being a Trainee Facilities Manager, during which Facilities Management qualifications were achieved. With years of operational experience, the first consultancy was established, delivering operational facilities and procurement solutions to significant facilities management entities, including global and European roles.
Approaching nearly three decades in the facilities management field, Maxcene’s focus shifted towards MCFM Global after being with Jones Lang LaSalle. Within the latter company, Maxcene served as a Sourcing Lead for an enterprise Client, offering support to operational teams. This chapter highlighted the need to pursue the passion for inspiring, educating, and energizing the industry, particularly through the specialization of Mobilisation.
The Company
MCFM Global was founded in 2021 and provides consulting and advisory services in facilities management and procurement to clients who own over 1 million square feet of real estate, and require management of their facilities services. Mobilisation Mastery is the training and development side of the business offering workshops and transformation programs for large corporations and individuals who want to embed mobilisation and transition skills into their business or develop the specialism of mobilisation and transformation of facilities management services.
MCFM’s workshops follow a 5-step methodology and framework created by the Founder to enable learners to develop an understanding of the mobilisation stages and also capture what stage they are in their transition journey.
“We offer introductory webinars that cover the key stages and specialist areas during the contract period a Client experiences,” says Maxcene.
The webinars flow into workshops that take a deep dive into specific topics i.e. Pre-mobilisation, The transition stage, transformation stage, stabilisation and at end of contract life demobilisation of the contract. Maxcene shares that mobilisations are complex as such MCFM offers training modules that breakdown the interdependencies in the transition world, for example, understanding legal entities, the importance of due diligence, risk management and stakeholder engagement to name a few of the courses on offer. The whole framework is supported by a Mobilisation toolkit aimed to provide its learners with essential documents, templates and checklists to mobilise successfully.
Elevating Education
Maxcene’s vision is to expand Mobilisation Mastery as a brand and develop Mobilisation Mastery Academy as a global online platform accessible to all who want to learn and develop their skills in this exciting field. He says, “Our services will be workshops virtual, transformation programs with our participants having an option to choose 6, 12 or 18 months programs.” He further adds, “Each program will be supported by Accountability group sessions, the Mobilisation Mastery community and live education sessions for knowledge sharing and insights.”
Nurturing Lifelong Growth
According to Maxcene, it’s crucial to maintain an ongoing commitment to one’s own training and development. Staying updated on the latest innovations and ideas, adapting to and utilizing various technologies to enrich learning, and cultivating diverse perspectives are all essential for delivering the most optimal learning experiences and journeys to clients.
Drawing lessons from thought leaders and garnering insights from experts within the industry are key aspects of this approach. Moreover, Maxcene emphasizes the significance of remaining connected to the broader world and individuals across different sectors.
In Maxcene’s view, emerging leaders today might be lacking certain qualities. For instance, a sense of the importance of giving back and creating a positive societal impact through their endeavors could be underemphasized. Amidst the prevalence of digital technology, the human skills component is vital but can often be overlooked. Traits like humility and gratitude hold immense value to Maxcene.
Harmonizing Vision and Impact
Maxcene’s cherished priorities resonate with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, encompassing better mental well-being, fostering health and advancement for the disadvantaged, and ensuring accessible quality education and skill development. A pivotal thrust of “Mobilisation Mastery” involves establishing a global online platform accessible to all, offering a career path for students specializing in transition. With the facilities management sector poised for substantial growth in five years, securing adept talent for successful project management is crucial.
Collaboration and partnerships stand as Maxcene’s third priority. A strong advocate of multiplying efforts, Maxcene seeks the right partners to achieve both social impact and business objectives.
Inspiring Transformation
In his role as a visionary, Maxcene undertakes the task of developing a business that embodies his values—serving as a source of inspiration, education, and positive transformation for others. This endeavor aims to invigorate and energize individuals. Maxcene’s responsibilities extend to drawing in top industry experts to instruct at the Mobilisation Mastery Academy, fostering an environment of inclusivity that encourages authenticity and diversity to thrive.
Maxcene finds the most joy in his daily routine when connecting with others and disseminating knowledge through writing and training.
Vision for Mobilisation Mastery Academy
Maxcene reflects on a significant professional risk taken years ago when transitioning from the industry to becoming a landlady of a rural publican house. Acknowledging the adage that growth often arises from setbacks, Maxcene recounts a period marked by several unsuccessful business ventures, which posed challenges that have fortunately been overcome.
Looking ahead, Maxcene envisions a future where the Mobilisation Mastery Academy is firmly established, fostering social impact in learning, education, and communities. This vision involves collaborations with organizations like B1G1.org, as well as local community and social enterprises, all with the aim of generating positive change in various spheres.
Maximizing Leadership Success
Maxcene’s advice for those entering their first leadership role revolves around understanding people, culture, and the business. Taking time to learn about teams, actively listening, and avoiding micro-management are key aspects. Notably, Maxcene highlights the value of quieter individuals, suggesting ways to empower them for maximum contribution. Empowerment, according to Maxcene, forms a strong team and allows personal growth.
Maxcene stresses that being the smartest isn’t essential; rather, drawing the best from team members and nurturing them is vital. Accepting that team members may move on to new passions is important, and adapting swiftly is essential.