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As a profession, facilities management has never been looked upon in a more favourable light. Not only does it now demand a larger presence and create more impact within a company, but the industry's character is also broadening in complexity and specialisation. A deeper understanding of facilities management is evolving and companies are slowly beginning to realise that it is vital for their success.

As companies forge into the international market, so does facilities management. But who issues the passports and how do you get one?

Most of us can understand why facilities professionals should find themselves being asked to travel as part of their role. Quite simply, businesses are expanding globally — and as long as the size of the space warrants it, facilities professionals are being asked to monitor the portfolio.

However, getting into global facilities management is not as easy as all that. Unless your organisation can take you with them as they move onto foreign soil, there are a number of hurdles to overcome.

European, international and global facilities management is one of the more senior sectors of facilities management. This is not only because of the level of responsibility, business acumen and cultural diversity required, but the depth of experience too.

A degree and an MBA, coupled with membership of professional bodies are almost essential, along with experience in handling a large UK portfolio and, preferably, some travel to other European offices.

The number of years in the industry is also important — ideally, without previous international experience, you would need at least five years' senior facilities management knowledge covering a large number of sites. If you have facilities experience outside the UK, you do not need so many years under your belt. Languages too, are obviously a string to your bow.

There are no hard and fast rules to entering the European facilities management market. The global economic climate and trends dictate where business operates. Facilities must surely follow suit.

So all facilities professionals wanting to further their career grab your passports. Flight Global 2001 is ready for departure!