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IFMA Unveils its Top Global FM Influencers

Sep 22, 2026

List recognizes innovators & leaders of the built environment 

IFMA GLOBAL HQ – (22 September 2026) – The International Facility Management Association (IFMA) has announced its 2026 Top Global FM Influencers list — recognizing 10 professionals shaping the future of facility management through innovation, leadership and measurable impact.IFMA Top Global Influencers 2026

These individuals represent the full spectrum of the FM profession — from sustainability and technology integration to workplace strategy, leadership, education, operational excellence, research and more.

"Our influencers leverage their clout and experience to share more than just best practices. They use their platforms – whether it is content, the classroom or leadership to inspire conversations that better position our global professionals as the trusted resource for stronger, more efficient facility and organizational outcomes," said Michael V. Geary, CAE, IFMA President and CEO.

“They are telling the stories that strengthen the facility management profession and shine a light on not just the people, but also the processes and actions that are sometimes invisible, yet have a resounding impact on everyone’s lives, health and culture.”

The list was curated to highlight those making a significant mark on the built environment — advancing sustainable operations, integrating emerging technologies, enhancing workplace experiences, and prioritizing safe, resilient and people-centered spaces. From bold new approaches to proven, data-driven results, these influencers are elevating facility management and inspiring progress around the world.

Representing 10 countries, the honorees reflect the diversity and global scope of facility management. Through their work and platforms, they share ideas and innovations that transcend geography and language, amplifying FM’s role in creating environments that are secure, efficient and adaptable.

This year’s influencers are:

Grant Sommerfeld, CMC, CFM, CEFP, FRICS
Founder & Principal Executive - FM Consulting Ltd.
Canada

Edward Kacal, CFM, FMP, SFP       
CEO - Servus Limited
Trinidad & Tobago

Mohamed Saadeh
General Manager - Darwish Interserve Facility Management
Qatar

Remigius Mmegha
Head of Assets & Property Management - ONL Estates Limited 
Nigeria

Fadi Alshakhshir, LEED GA, CEM
Executive Director - Facility Management Dubai Holding
United Arab Emirates

Jose Diaz, CFM, SFP, FMP
Associate Projects Director - PWT
Mexico

Yohanes Jeffry Johary
Indonesia President & Managing Director – OCS
Indonesia

Yvette Watson
Founder - PHI Factory
Netherlands

Fernanda Carvalho
Head of Real Estate & Facilities - Mercado Libre
Brazil

Dr. Jake Smithwick, Ph.D., FMP, SFP
Associate Professor, Graduate Program Director - University of North Carolina at Charlotte
United States

By blending creativity, authenticity and strategic communication, IFMA’s Top Global FM Influencers foster trust and connection among diverse audiences. Their reach demonstrates the power of both in-person and digital engagement to inspire positive change — proving that one voice can spark impact across continents.

The full list of the Top Global FM Influencers is available at: https://pages.ifma.org/2026-ifma-global-fm-influencers

About IFMA

Founded in 1980, the International Facility Management Association (IFMA) is the world’s largest, most widely recognized association for facility management (FM) professionals. Supporting more than 26,000 members in over 140 countries, IFMA is a key contributor to the development of international FM standards and works with decision-makers to inform FM-related policy. IFMA provides career resources and continuing education, offers three industry-respected credentials, maintains the largest repository of FM-related content on the web and hosts year-round global events. With a vision to lead the future of the built environment to make the world a better place, IFMA believes in the benefit of global diversity, inclusion and social equity, and recognizes that sustainability, resilience and responsible environmental stewardship are paramount. For more information, visit ifma.org and our LinkedInYouTubeFacebookThreadsX and SmugMug pages. Follow IFMA’s Connected FM podcast and blog for expert insights on trending industry topics.