How Diversity Drives Real Value in Facility Management

Diversity in the workplace isn’t just about representation—it’s a proven business strategy. Companies with diverse leadership teams financially outperform their peers, innovate at higher rates, and make better decisions.

For facility management professionals, embracing diversity in both workforce and vendor partnerships can lead to higher efficiency, better problem-solving, and long-term cost savings. But how exactly does diversity translate into measurable business value?

McKinsey & Company’s research highlights some compelling insights:

• Companies in the top quartile for racial and ethnic diversity are 35% more likely to achieve above-average financial performance.
• Companies with the most gender-diverse executive teams are 25% more likely to outperform on profitability.
• The correlation between diversity and business success has strengthened over time, proving that inclusive organizations remain more resilient in changing economic climates.

So, how can facility management organizations leverage diversity for operational excellence? Let’s explore key areas where diversity delivers measurable impact.

Better Decision Making

Managing large facilities—whether airports, corporate offices, or healthcare institutions—requires fast, effective decision-making. Diverse leadership teams outperform others by making better decisions up to 87% of the time, according to McKinsey.

For facility managers, this translates to:

✔ More innovative problem-solving for operational challenges

✔ Stronger risk management and adaptability

✔ Better alignment with community and client needs

Organizations that prioritize diversity in facility services partnerships also benefit from new perspectives and creative approaches to cost control, energy efficiency, and sustainability.

Financial Benefits

McKinsey’s data proves that companies with strong diversity initiatives are more profitable. The reason? Diverse teams drive innovation, create efficiencies, and improve workplace culture, all of which contribute to bottom-line success.

In facility management, diverse vendor partnerships can:

✔ Improve supplier agility and service quality

✔ Support diversity spend goals and compliance requirements

✔ Strengthen local economies by reinvesting in the community

Organizations that intentionally integrate diversity into their vendor selection processes gain both financial and reputational benefits while maintaining operational excellence.

Strengthen Employee Retention and Satisfaction

Workplaces that embrace diversity attract and retain top talent more effectively than those that do not. Employees in inclusive organizations feel more valued, engaged, and productive—all critical factors in high-performing facility teams.

For facility managers, partnering with diverse suppliers fosters an inclusive culture within the broader ecosystem, creating a ripple effect that:

✔ Reduces employee turnover in contracted facility teams

✔ Enhances collaboration and team morale

✔ Boosts workplace satisfaction for facility occupants

By working with partners like DFS, facility management teams gain operational benefits and a stronger, more engaged workforce.

Diversity is a Competitive Advantage

The business case for diversity is undeniable. McKinsey’s research confirms that companies with diverse teams:

✔ Achieve higher financial performance

✔ Make better decisions

✔ Attract top talent and strengthen workplace culture

For facility management professionals, embracing diversity isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s a competitive advantage that drives innovation, efficiency, and long-term profitability.

---

At DFS, we specialize in facility management solutions that align with operational excellence and diversity-driven innovation. We provide customized solutions that help organizations achieve both financial success and community impact.