Hear from ISS Village Manager Sam Mawson about working in remote services

Meet Sam, who has been with ISS for the past two years. He’s no stranger to site life in WA, where he currently lives and works. Sam started out in the Energy & Resources (E&R) sector working in chef and assistant village manager positions, in remote services, before joining ISS. 

Looking to broaden his career horizons, he accepted a role as Catering Manager with ISS at Japukayinya Village (previously Fortescue Metals Group site). He then took the opportunity to become Village Manager at the Thunderbird Mineral Sands Project about 12 months ago. We asked Sam what appealed to him about working for ISS in remote services.

Why ISS?
With ISS, there’s more opportunity in remote services in the Energy & Resources sector. Previously, I was with contract catering service company Cater Care but ISS operates larger sites so there’s more potential for career development.

What attracted you to this role?
I was looking for a challenge and like the demands of this role. Especially the development journey, not just of my job but across the Thunderbird Project as it transitions from the construction phase to operations.

What’s great about ISS?
ISS backs you on a professional level with cross-functional support. I find support across all areas of the business especially Procurement, Ryan and Ellise put a lot of time and effort into making sure we have everything we need in a timely manner. Our Key Account Manager Daniel has been a great support for myself and my team regardless of the time or day. The personal support is critical too. For example, I have a young family with two sons aged seven and four, so working FIFO (Fly In Fly Out) remotely means extended periods away from them, which is challenging for the whole family. ISS’s supportive team, culture and resources help to balance this way of life.

What does it take to be a Village Manager?
You need to build up a deep knowledge of village operations and its people, as well as the ability to support cultural and operational links to the site’s surrounding area. Being able to create and support a cohesive team culture is also key, as well as strong problem-solving skills and plenty of resilience. Take every opportunity to get accredited or to upskill. For example, I received Food Safe accreditation at Japukayinya Village.

Any future career goals?
Yes, I’m keen to work towards being a Key Account Manager at ISS and open to any training opportunities to support this career pathway.

The ISS Team of 23 Placemakers supports the village’s full suite of FM services which are housekeeping, accommodation management, catering, functions, as well as grounds and maintenance provision.

About the Kimberly Mineral Sands (KMS) Thunderbird Operation
Thunderbird is a 350-person mining village located between Broome and Derby in the Kimberley Kimberly. It has grown exponentially in just 1.5 years from being a construction village housing 20 people, to a village site accommodating 350 people as it transitions to the Operations function of a mineral sands mining facility.