Join us for an insightful interview with Dr. Suma Velekat, CEO of Azzurro Facilities Management, as she delves into her journey of building a leading Total Facilities Management company in the UAE.

Discover how her leadership vision, innovative approaches, and focus on sustainability have transformed Azzurro FM into an industry trailblazer.

Q. How has your leadership shaped Azzurro FM’s journey since you took the helm?

In 1993, when I co-founded Azzurro Facilities Management with just seven team members, I had a clear vision: to create a company built on trust, excellence, and a deep commitment to people. Starting as a modest cleaning service, I envisioned something greater—a Total Facilities Management company that would redefine industry standards and become a trusted partner to clients across the UAE.

From the very beginning, I understood that the heart of any organization is its people. My leadership has always centered on cultivating an environment where employees feel valued, supported, and empowered to grow. This belief in the strength of our team has been the cornerstone of Azzurro’s success. Over the past 31 years, it has been one of my proudest achievements to see our team expand to over 6,000 employees.

This growth is not merely a testament to business success but reflects our unwavering commitment to nurturing talent and creating meaningful opportunities for every individual. Many of our long-term employees, who joined us in the early days, have remained integral to our journey. Their loyalty and dedication have shaped our culture, fuelled innovation, and enabled us to navigate the evolving landscape of the facilities management industry.

At Azzurro, we embrace resilience and adaptability as our guiding principles. We have grown into a company that manages over 1,000 sites and supports a diverse range of industries. This transformation is a reflection of the trust our clients place in us and the hard work of every team member who shares in our
vision.

For me, leadership is about more than setting goals; it’s about leading with compassion and vision. Every decision I’ve made has been guided by the belief that when people thrive, organizations succeed. This philosophy continues to inspire me as we move forward, building on our legacy and shaping a brighter future for Azzurro Facilities Management.

What inspired you to venture into the facilities management industry?

My journey into facilities management was driven by my passion for creating efficient, sustainable, and people-centric environments. I’ve always believed that a well-managed facility is the backbone of any successful organization, impacting both productivity and quality of life. The dynamic nature of this industry, coupled with the opportunity to innovate and make a tangible difference, drew me in. Leading Azzurro FM allows me to bring my vision to life by blending operational excellence with sustainable practices, making meaningful contributions to the UAE’s built environment.

What are your priorities when it comes to driving innovation within the facilities management sector?

At Azzurro FM, innovation drives everything we do. My focus has always been on leveraging technology to streamline operations and elevate the quality of our services. Beyond technological advancements, we cultivate a culture of innovation within our team, empowering them to think creatively and develop solutions that deliver greater value to our clients. This approach ensures we stay ahead of industry trends and consistently exceed expectations.

A significant milestone in our “Green Steps” campaign is the establishment of our chemical production facility. Recognizing chemicals and consumables as major cost drivers, we took a strategic leap to produce in-house green-certified products. This initiative not only achieved a 17-20% reduction in chemical procurement costs but also enabled us to tailor products to meet specific client needs, improving operational efficiency and client satisfaction.

The facility plays a vital role in advancing sustainability by reusing plastics and optimizing production processes to minimize waste. Additionally, the campaign extends its impact by promoting recycling programs and encouraging sustainable practices among our clients and partners, cultivating a shared commitment to environmental responsibility.

The results have been transformative. Azzurro has successfully reduced its carbon footprint, cut costs, and heightened awareness about the critical role of sustainability in facilities
management. By addressing the dual challenges of cost-effectiveness and environmental stewardship, the “Green Steps” campaign has set a new standard for sustainable innovation in the industry.

How does Azzurro FM balance environmental sustainability with operational efficiency in its services?

At Azzurro FM, we view sustainability and efficiency as complementary goals. We also train our staff on sustainable practices, ensuring that every level of our operations aligns with
these principles. Balancing these priorities is about integrating sustainability into our DNA and proving that eco-friendly practices are not just responsible but also profitable.

What role does technology play in the transformation of facilities management at Azzurro FM?

Technology is revolutionizing facilities management, and at Azzurro FM, we’re leading this transformation. A prime example is our innovative iTrackFM application, which integrates geofencing capabilities to enhance the precision and reliability of inspections and audits. By requiring users to be physically on-site to access specific tools, iTrackFM eliminates inaccuracies and prevents off-site reporting, ensuring complete accountability.

This advanced tool has significantly improved our compliance tracking and site management processes. It equips our team with real-time data and actionable insights, enabling us to uphold the highest standards of service. For Azzurro FM, technology isn’t just a support tool—it’s a strategic pillar that drives excellence and innovation.

By embracing cutting-edge solutions like iTrackFM, we create a seamless and trustworthy experience for our clients, setting a new benchmark for future-ready facilities management.

What are the biggest challenges facing the FM industry in the UAE, and how is Azzurro FM addressing them?

The facilities management (FM) industry in the UAE faces several challenges, including cost pressures, labor shortages, technological integration, and increasing demands for sustainable practices. At Azzurro FM, we have developed strategies to address these challenges effectively:

• Cost Efficiency: One of the most significant challenges is managing costs while delivering high-quality services. Azzurro FM has tackled this by investing in innovative solutions such as our in-house chemical production facility. By producing green-certified cleaning products, we have reduced chemical procurement costs by 17-20%, enabling us to offer cost-effective solutions without compromising on quality.

• Labour Shortages and Retention: The FM sector relies heavily on skilled labour, and retaining talent can be challenging. At Azzurro, we prioritise employee well-being, training, and career development. We have built a culture that values loyalty and recognizes the contributions of ourworkforce, which has helped us maintain a committed team of over 6,000 employees.

• Sustainability Demands: Sustainability is no longer optional in the UAE's FM industry, especially with the nation’s focus on achieving net-zero goals. Our “Green Steps” campaign has positioned Azzurro FM as a leader in sustainable practices. From using eco-friendly cleaning products to promoting recycling programs, we are committed to reducing our environmental footprint while supporting clients in meeting their sustainability
objectives.

By proactively addressing these challenges, Azzurro FM not only stays ahead of industry demands but also sets benchmarks for excellence, innovation, and sustainability in the UAE’s FM
sector.

How do you foresee the FM industry evolving in the next five years?

The facilities management (FM) industry is poised for significant transformation in the next five years, driven by technological advancements, heightened sustainability goals,
and evolving client expectations. 

At Azzurro FM, we see the following key trends shaping the industry:
• Increased Digitalization: The adoption of advanced technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), and predictive analytics will become mainstream. These tools will enable real-time monitoring, data-driven decision-making, and smarter resource allocation, leading to enhanced efficiency and service delivery.

• Sustainability as a Core Focus: With global emphasis on achieving net-zero targets, FM companies will prioritize green practices. This includes energy-efficient solutions, waste reduction programs, and eco-friendly products. At Azzurro FM, initiatives like our “Green Steps” campaign already position us as leaders in sustainable FM practices.

• Workplace Evolution: The changing nature of workplaces, including hybrid models and smart offices, will demand adaptable FM strategies. Companies will need to focus on creating spaces that support employeewell-being, productivity, and technology integration.

• Emphasis on Cost Efficiency: Economic pressures will drive the demand for cost-effective FM solutions.

Companies will need to innovate operational processes and find ways to deliver value while maintaining high standards. Azzurro FM has already embraced this through our in-house production of green-certified chemicals, reducing costs and adding value for our clients.

At Azzurro FM, we are prepared to lead in this evolving landscape by continuing to invest in technology, sustainability, and people-centric practices. The next five years will redefine the FM industry, and we aim to be at the forefront of this transformation.

QHow do you ensure Azzurro FM consistently meets and exceeds customer expectations?

At Azzurro FM, customer satisfaction is a core priority. We achieve this by maintaining open communication channels and tailoring our services to client needs. Regular feedback
mechanisms allow us to adapt and improve continuously. Additionally, we invest in staff training and deploy advanced tools to ensure consistent service delivery. Our focus on building
strong relationships and retaining it with clients helps us anticipate their needs and exceed expectations.

What measures are in place to maintain high standards across such a diversified client base?

• Customized Service Plans: We recognize that each client has unique needs. Our approach involves developing bespoke service plans that align with the specific requirements of each client, ensuring relevance and excellence in execution.

• Skilled Workforce: Our team of over 6,000 employees undergoes continuous training and skill development to stay updated on industry best practices. This ensures that our workforce is well-equipped to deliver exceptional service across various industries and client types.

• Proactive Communication: Open and transparent communication with clients is key to understanding their evolving needs. Our account managers maintain regular contact to ensure client feedback is addressed promptly, fostering strong relationships and continuous improvement.

QWith Azzurro FM’s extensive services portfolio, how  do you see the company contributing to the UAE’s ambitious real estate and infrastructure projects?

Azzurro FM is proud to play a key role in supporting the UAE’s real estate and infrastructure development. Our expertise in integrated facilities management allows us to provide tailored solutions that enhance building performance and sustainability.

From energy-efficient operations to green certifications, we support developers in achieving their goals. For example, our partnerships with key players in the industry ensure that iconic
projects are maintained to the highest standards.

QWhat partnerships or collaborations have been most instrumental in supporting your growth? 

Working with our legacy clients have been pivotal in supporting our growth. For instance, we’ve proudly worked with Juma Al Majid Group for over 28 years, RAK Properties for 14 years, and Emirates Schools Establishments for more than 13 years. These long-standing relationships are a testament to the trust and value we strive to deliver consistently.

Maintaining and nurturing such partnerships is critical—it’s about understanding our clients’ evolving needs and ensuring that our services align with their expectations. By prioritising retention and relationship management, we not only secure mutual growth but also reinforce our reputation as a reliable and committed partner.

These collaborations serve as the cornerstone of our success, enabling us to adapt, innovate, and grow alongside our clients.

At Azzurro FM, diversity and inclusivity are fundamental to our identity and success. With a workforce exceeding 6,000 employees, we actively embrace the unique perspectives and
strengths that individuals from diverse cultures, backgrounds, and experiences bring to our organization. Our hiring practices prioritize equal opportunities for all, with a strong focus on promoting gender equality and inclusion.

Notably, women represent 40% of our workforce, including blue-collar roles and Emiratis, highlighting our commitment to breaking barriers and empowering women at all levels. We foster an inclusive environment through cultural awareness programs that celebrate diversity and encourage mutual respect and collaboration among our team members.

How do you maintain a balance between your professional and personal life, especially as a CEO?

Balancing a demanding professional role with personal life requires discipline and prioritization. I set clear boundaries by allocating dedicated time for my family and personal interests, which helps me recharge and stay focused. I also believe in delegating responsibilities to my capable team, ensuring that no one carries the burden alone. Regular exercise and mindfulness practices help me maintain mental clarity and resilience. Ultimately, I find that the support of my family and team is instrumental in achieving a fulfilling balance between my roles.

What are your strategic goals for Azzurro FM over the next decade?

Over the next decade, my vision for Azzurro FM is to solidify our position as a market leader in the facilities management sector.

We aim to expand our services portfolio, integrate cutting-edge technologies, and further our commitment to sustainability.

Additionally, we plan to invest in workforce development, ensuring that our team is equipped to lead the industry into the future. By aligning with the UAE’s ambitious growth plans, we intend to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s real estate and infrastructure advancements.