Curious about the people working behind the scenes to keep FMANZ running smoothly? Each month, we spotlight a member of our Ops team and share a few fun insights along the way. Last month, we featured Jonathan Jepson, CPD & Assessment Manager, and if you guessed that his lie was playing drums in a rock band in university, you were right!
Next up is FMANZ CEO, Jo Duggan, responsible for leading the FMANZ team and bringing our strategy to life.
On the job
What’s your role at FMANZ?
As CEO, my role is to make sure FMANZ is always moving forward. I work closely with our Board, staff, volunteers and industry partners to grow our profession, support our members and make sure facilities management has a strong voice across Aotearoa. No two days are ever the same, and that’s exactly how I like it.
What’s your favourite part of the job?
Without question, it’s the people. I love seeing members connect, develop their careers and genuinely enjoy being part of our community. Whether it’s celebrating award winners, watching someone complete a qualification, or hearing that an FMANZ connection has led to a new opportunity, those moments make everything worthwhile.
How did you find your way into the world of FM, and what keeps you here?
I’ve always worked in the property sector, starting in construction before moving into the not-for-profit world with the New Zealand Green Building Council and later the New Zealand Institute of Architects. Along the way, I discovered facilities management and realised it brings together everything I enjoy – people, buildings, strategy, problem solving and creating places where people can thrive. What keeps me here is the incredible variety, the impact our profession has on people’s everyday lives, and the passionate, generous people who make up our FM community.
Just for fun
Tell us something people might be surprised to learn about you.
I’ve kitesurfed in nine countries across four continents, and my goal is to eventually kitesurf on every continent. It’s one of my favourite ways to explore the world—you get to experience incredible coastlines, meet amazing people and see places from a completely different perspective. Antarctica might be a little ambitious… but never say never!
What do you like to do when you’re not working?
Spending time with family is number one. I love travelling, discovering great food and wine, getting out on the water, walking new places and making memories with the people I love. You’ll also usually find me planning the next adventure before the current one has finished!
Two truths and a lie – let’s see if readers can guess!
• I’m about to become a grandmother.
• I used to play the clarinet.
• I’ve started training for my helicopter licence.
Quickfire round
Morning or night person? Both. Sunrise and sunset are my favourite parts of the day—the bit in between can be negotiable!
Beach or lakes? Beach, but if there’s water and a great view, I’m in.
Dog or cat? Both! I’ve been lucky enough to have owned both, so I refuse to choose.
Sweet or savoury? Savoury every time… preferably with a good glass of wine in hand.
Think you guessed the lie? All will be revealed next month! Join us then to meet the final friendly face from the Ops team.
