Extra Space Storage is happy to recognize two of our leaders who go above and beyond in their field. Ed Donaghy, Facility Services Director Northeast, and Kevin Gillen, Facility Services Director Southeast, were both recently acknowledged in the 2022 Conference Issue of Connexus magazine for earning the rigorous ProFM credential.

“The information taught during the ProFM class covered many topics that overlapped with what I do daily at Extra Space Storage,” Donaghy explained when asked about the course. “Being able to review each topic in more detail will help me make good business decisions in the future, whether dealing with certain assets or personnel.”

Video via connexfm.com

The ProFM credential, offered by ConnexFM, helps facility leaders build their knowledge and skills, and prove competency, through a 55-hour training program. The program focuses on four functional knowledge areas—asset management, risk management, business management, and operations and maintenance. The extensive course includes input from over 3,300 professionals across 93 countries.

“The program covers a wide array of topics and interests,” shared Gillen. I picked up a good general knowledge of areas I have not yet had the opportunity to deal with.

Video via connexfm.com

From self storage to major retailers, any company with physical locations spread across a geographic region needs Facility Managers. For Extra Space Storage, the Facilities Management team is in charge of designing and managing programs, projects, and systems to ensure facilities are safe, beautifully maintained, and functioning at optimal levels. This includes establishing company-wide consistent standards, training materials, and much more.

Gillen and Donaghy both joined Extra Space Storage in 2020 and oversee approximately 800 stores each for their respective regions. Gillen happened upon a career in Facilities Management unconventionally through the path of accounting. Before moving into private accounting, he was a Certified Public Accountant. His career eventually led him to various roles in real estate and acquisition, construction, and ultimately Facilities Management with Extra Space Storage.

Donaghy studied Construction Management in college and spent his early career in building and development. A job with a local developer eventually grew into needing someone full-time to manage and take care of their growing portfolio of properties. Donaghy enjoyed that side of the business and stepped into that role. He’s managed all types of properties, including commercial, retail, and large residential projects.

Gillen and Donaghy shared similar guidance when asked what advice they’d share with new facility management professionals. Donaghy encourages young professionals to continue learning. He cites that he’s still learning something new every day, even after 25 years in the business. Similarly, Gillen suggests looking for opportunities to continue growing, especially when it comes to building relationships and developing leadership skills.

Congratulations, Ed Donaghy and Kevin Gillen, on this significant achievement!

ConnexFM was established in 1995 and is the authority on retail and multi-site facilities management and the leading membership organization for facility managers and supplier professionals. If you’re interested in a career in Facilities Management, visit our careers page for current opportunities with Extra Space Storage.