In the bustling economic landscape of Vietnam, a country shaped by rapid urbanization and industrialization, buildings represent more than half of the greenhouse gas emissions. That negative impact can be significantly reduced through efficient building management, which helps optimize the energy consumption from residential, commercial and industrial buildings.
In her current role as Head of Sustainability & Transformation for Aden, a leading facility management and food service company, Nguyen Thanh Thuy is at the forefront of the increasing awareness of society regarding the importance of sustainability. Let’s discuss with her how new international standards are shaping the Vietnam business landscape.
Could you please explain briefly your role?
As Head of Sustainability & Transformation, I oversee the transformation and efficiency of our building management operations. This includes various services from maintenance, energy, cleaning, security and even food services.
We’re able to provide these services through one single point of contact for our clients, who are very diverse: it could be a residential building, an office tower, a factory, or even a school campus. This approach not only streamlines operations and reduces costs but also improves customer satisfaction. For businesses, this is essential, because it helps ensure compliance with international environmental and social standards, which then allows businesses in Vietnam to compete on a global scale.
Your career path in Building Management is truly inspiring. What inspired you to join this field?
My interest in Facility Management began quite early in my career, which started in 2008. I was drawn to the impact that effective management could have on the operational efficiency of a business and, more broadly, on environmental sustainability. The ability to influence both the micro and macro aspects of a business through building management continues to fascinate me.
Since you joined Aden in 2015, you’ve helped the company grow. How are international standards affecting business in Vietnam?
In Vietnam, as in many other countries, there's a growing recognition of the importance of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards. In sectors like manufacturing and education, where the impact on the community and environment is significant, adhering to strong ESG standards and long-term sustainability is not just beneficial, it's fundamental. This has led to a transformative shift in how businesses operate, pushing them towards more sustainable practices.
As Head of Sustainability & Transformation, what specific initiatives have you implemented?
One of our key initiatives has been the integration of green cleaning solutions and energy-efficient practices into our facility management and property management services.
In school campuses, we've also focused on enhancing waste management protocols and promoting sustainability through education and engagement. These significant operational efficiencies and cost savings for our clients also create more awareness and satisfaction for the communities we serve. We have also prioritized the training and development of our employees so they can become experts on international standards such as the WELL Building Standards, which focus on enhancing the health and well-being of building users.
How do you manage your career while ensuring you contribute to building a better world for your children?
Balancing my career with the goal of building a better world for my children involves making conscious choices that align with my values. I prioritize sustainable practices at work, engage in community service, and ensure quality time with my family to instill positive values. By integrating these efforts into my daily routine, I strive to create a positive impact both professionally and personally.
Looking ahead, what are your aspirations for the future, both personally and professionally?
Professionally, I aim to further drive the adoption of sustainable practices within the building management sector and beyond. I hope to inspire other women in Vietnam to pursue leadership roles in industries where they can make a significant impact. And personally, I want to continue being a role model for my children and help them grow into responsible and thoughtful individuals.
Finally, what advice would you give to young professionals who are eager to make a difference in facility management or any other sector?
My advice would be to always stay curious and never stop learning. The field of building management, like many others, is constantly evolving, so being proactive about learning and adapting is key. Also, don’t underestimate the power of networking and building strong relationships. These connections can provide invaluable support and opportunities throughout your career.