From Trainee to Facility Services Director

In 2003, fresh out of school, Adhurim Ahmetaj found himself at a crossroads: “When I was out of school without a clear plan, the open house at the building cleaning company opened up a whole new world for me,” he recalls. Initially influenced by the stigma attached to the term “cleaner,” he was surprised by the diversity and opportunities the profession offers. He decided to write his first job application and accidentally sent it to the wrong ISS address. But when the application came back marked “Could not be delivered,” he tried again - this time successfully.

Formative Early Years

Adhurim Ahmetaj’s first day on the job in August 2004 marked the beginning of his journey at ISS. Starting with cleaning restrooms - a task that took some getting used to at first - he quickly learned the importance of dedication and professionalism. At the Aarau Cantonal Hospital, he gained his first experiences, which prepared him for more demanding tasks. This period was marked by a wide range of activities, such as deep cleaning, window cleaning, and even cleaning operating rooms - experiences that deepened his respect for the profession and his understanding of the importance of hygiene.

He quickly learns that working in facility management involves not only systematic tasks but also the ability to work under pressure and find efficient solutions to complex problems. In 2007, he successfully completes his apprenticeship and continues his career at ISS.

Seizing Opportunities

After graduating, the passionate weight training and fitness enthusiast faced a new challenge: his supervisor at the time, Fabrizio Musa, offered him the position of assistant facility manager at Zofingen Hospital. Adhurim Ahmetaj, unsure whether he was up to the responsibility, accepted the challenge. There, he got to know every room in the hospital and expanded his knowledge of facility management.

In 2010, he completed his training as a certified building cleaning specialist with a federal certificate. In 2013, he was promoted to facility manager, a role in which he expanded his team from 15 to 30 people and focused intensively on personnel leadership and team management. His supervisors supported him in this role as coaches and mentors. In 2017, he began his training to become a certified building cleaner, which he successfully completed in 2019. That same year, he was promoted to site manager in the healthcare sector.

Two further milestones followed shortly thereafter: In 2020, he was promoted to Facility Services Manager (FSM). In this role, he took charge of various projects and client relationships in the healthcare, cleaning, and specialized cleaning sectors. And since January 1, 2024, he has served as Facility Services Director, implementing high quality standards for his clients and serving as a key pillar of Saskia Deiss’s team in the Aargau region.

“The in-depth performance reviews and the support provided through continuing education, particularly in the area of leadership, were crucial to my professional success.”

Support and Motivation for Success

Adhurim Ahmetaj’s career at ISS has been significantly shaped by consistent support and development. The opportunity to draw on the expertise of experienced colleagues and supervisors has been invaluable. He adds: “The in-depth performance reviews and the support provided through professional development, especially in the area of leadership, were crucial to my professional success.” He sees ISS as a company that always listens to the needs of its employees and acts accordingly.

However, to advance in facility management, you also need the drive to progress and the attitude that no task is too menial. “In my role as a manager, I’ve often sought advice from my parents - especially my father - as well as from my mentor and my supervisors. Their words were a great source of support for me. Interacting with role models and mentors is also important and helpful,” says Adhurim Ahmetaj, summarizing his journey.

Now a new chapter begins for Adhurim Ahmetaj, and he looks forward with respect to the challenges ahead in his new role. His journey at ISS began when he was 17 years old, and since then he has never considered leaving. “I’ve been able to continuously develop,” emphasizes Adhurim Ahmetaj, whose commitment to the company runs deep. He describes himself as someone with “white-and-blue blood” running through his veins. Through his experience in various positions within ISS, he has gained a comprehensive understanding of all facets of the job and is looking forward to this and future steps in his career.