Transforming Facilities Management in Sub-Saharan Africa: Key Insights from PwC’s CEO Survey

The workplace landscape in Sub-Saharan Africa is undergoing rapid transformation, driven by technological advancements, sustainability imperatives, and evolving business models. PwC’s 28th Annual Global CEO Survey offers critical insights into how business leaders in the region are responding to these shifts, with direct implications for facilities and workplace management. This article explores the key challenges and opportunities emerging from the survey and provides actionable solutions for organisations seeking to optimise their workplaces for the future.

What CEOs need to know

The workplace is no longer just a functional space; it is a strategic asset that directly impacts business performance, talent retention, and financial efficiency. CEOs in Sub-Saharan Africa must recognise that Facilities and Workplace Management (FWM) is a critical enabler of productivity, sustainability, and innovation. From optimising hybrid work models and reducing operational costs to meeting Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) targets, workplace strategies play a pivotal role in shaping the future of work.

A well-managed workplace enhances employee experience, supports business continuity, and strengthens brand identity, making it a top priority for executive leadership.

PwC’s 28th Annual Global CEO Survey highlights key trends that are transforming workplace and facilities management in the region.

With 72% of CEOs planning to adopt AI, 32% seeing revenue growth from sustainability investments, and 44% reinventing their business models, it is clear that workplace strategies must evolve.

This article explores these trends, identifies the challenges they present, and provides actionable solutions for organisations aiming to create high-performance workplaces that align with business goals and the future of work.

1. The Rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Workplace Management

One of the standout findings from PwC’s survey is that 72% of CEOs in Sub-Saharan Africa plan to adopt or expand AI initiatives in the next 12 months, with 45% expecting increased profitability from these investments.

Whilst I have in the past been critical of the rush to adopt AI in my previous post FM in South Africa Needs a Reality Check; AI Can Wait, there is no doubt that if implemented on top of solid processes.

While AI could revolutionise facilities and workplace management and promises a future of seamless, data-driven facilities management, the truth is that many organisations in Africa are still struggling to get to grips with the basics.

Challenges:

Effective maintenance planning, asset management, and service delivery are fundamental to FM, yet too often, we see poorly maintained buildings, reactive maintenance approaches, and a lack of strategic oversight.
Resistance to AI adoption due to fear of job losses and lack of technical expertise.
Integration difficulties with existing workplace management systems.
High initial costs of AI-driven facility solutions.

Solutions:

Workforce Upskilling: Organisations should invest in AI training programs for employees to ensure they understand how to leverage AI in workplace management rather than fear it.
Predictive Maintenance: AI-powered sensors can monitor HVAC systems, lighting, and water usage, reducing downtime and maintenance costs.
Smart Space Utilisation: AI can optimise office layouts by analysing employee movement patterns, helping companies transition effectively to hybrid working models.

2. Sustainability: A Business Imperative, Not Just a Trend

Sustainability is no longer a corporate buzzword, it’s a financial and operational priority. According to the PwC survey, 32% of Sub-Saharan Africa CEOs reported increased revenue from sustainability investments over the past five years. In facilities management, sustainability directly impacts operational costs, regulatory compliance, and corporate reputation.

Challenges:

Rising energy costs and unreliable power supply in many African countries.
Limited availability of sustainable building materials.
Pressure to meet international sustainability standards while balancing costs.

Solutions:

Energy-Efficient Buildings: Invest in solar energy, LED lighting, and smart climate control systems to reduce electricity consumption and dependence on the grid.
Green Building Certifications: Organisations should aim for LEED, EDGE, or Green Star certifications to enhance building sustainability and market appeal.
Sustainable Procurement: Facilities managers must prioritise eco-friendly materials and recycling programs to reduce their environmental impact.

3. Business Model Reinvention: The Workplace Must Adapt

The PwC survey reveals that 44% of CEOs in Sub-Saharan Africa are developing new products and services, 42% are targeting new customer bases, and 36% are exploring alternative market routes.

This means that businesses are restructuring their operations, which has direct implications for workplace and facilities management.

Challenges:

Increasing demand for flexible workspaces as companies shift to hybrid working.
Traditional office designs may not support new collaborative work models.
Facilities management strategies may not be aligned with the pace of business reinvention.

Solutions:

Flexible Workspaces: Organisations should adopt agile office designs that include hot-desking, co-working spaces, and activity-based work areas to accommodate shifting work styles.
Technology-Driven Collaboration: Investments in video conferencing tools, smart meeting rooms, and virtual collaboration platforms can support remote and hybrid teams.
Real-Time Workplace Analytics: Using IoT and AI to track space usage and employee preferences can help optimise office design and reduce operational costs.

4. The Role of Facilities Management in Enhancing Employee Experience

Employee well-being and productivity are central to workplace success. The PwC survey underscores the importance of aligning workplace strategies with employee needs to drive engagement and performance.

Challenges:

Increased employee expectations for wellness-centric work environments.
There is a need for workspaces that support diverse work styles.
Difficulty in measuring and improving workplace experience.

Solutions:

Wellness-First Workplace Design: Incorporating biophilic design, ergonomic furniture, and wellness programs can boost employee satisfaction and performance.
Hybrid Work Policies: Companies should develop clear policies that allow employees to balance in-office and remote work while maintaining engagement.
Employee Feedback Mechanisms: Regular surveys and AI-driven sentiment analysis can provide insights into workplace satisfaction and necessary improvements.

Conclusion

PwC’s 28th Annual Global CEO Survey highlights that Sub-Saharan Africa’s workplace transformation is being shaped by AI, sustainability, business reinvention, and employee-centric strategies. Facilities and workplace managers must proactively adapt to these trends by leveraging technology, implementing sustainable practices, and prioritising employee well-being. By doing so, organisations can create work environments that enhance productivity, reduce costs, and drive long-term business success.