CIBSE’s (The Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers) Facilities Management Group has announced plans to co-operate with fellow industry names The Building Controls Industry Association (BCIA) and The Building Futures Group.

The Institution signed agreements with both groups earlier this week, which will see them working together to promote best practice in the facilities management industry, as well as supporting joint initiatives and holding joint events.

In its work with the BCIA, CIBSE Facilities Management Group will work to raise awareness of how building controls can ensure buildings perform better. Meanwhile, its work with the Building Futures Group will encourage best practice in the fields of Building Services Management and Maintenance.

Chair of CIBSE Facilities Management Group, Geoff Prudence, said: 'CIBSE has long recognised the benefits of collaborating with other organisations, and championed the virtues of pooling knowledge and talent. These collaborations with leading industry organisations will increase the power of both parties to shout about what they do, and to shape the future of facilities management.'

He continued: 'There is rapid change underway in all areas of the built environment, and working together with other organisations will ensure we are prepared to meet those challenges. Sharing this knowledge will also allow all three organisations to serve their members better, and add value to the services they provide.'

BCIA President Steve Harrison said: 'The BCIA is very pleased to sign this Memorandum of Understanding with CIBSE. Geoff Prudence has been a great supporter of our association recognising the benefits of collaboration, by working closely with CIBSE we can raise awareness of how building controls and BEMS make buildings perform better. I look forward to working with the CIBSE FM Group over the next two years, and to building on our successes so far.'

Chief executive of The Building Futures Group, Sarah Bentley, added: 'The Building Futures Group are very pleased to continue our collaboration with CIBSE, both our organisations share a passion to increase building services knowledge, and raise standards through education and training. Our partnership will help to continue to promote the role of building services as an essential component of the economy. By continuing to work together TBFG and CIBSE will amplify our influence and raise awareness of the vital role everyone working in the built environment provides to every person in the UK.'