Fabian's Story

I first got to know Look Ahead about ten years ago. I was born in Ecuador but moved to Spain where I spent most of my teenage years.

I decided to move to London ‘for a year’ in 2013 when I was 18. I wanted to learn English and save some money. I started working part-time jobs as a cleaner. Working in theatres, schools, hotels and more. However, working at Look Ahead’s old head office in Westminster stood out to me.

I didn’t know much about the organisation, but the atmosphere was great. Very soon, it didn’t feel like just another office anymore. People were friendly, which helped me with my English.

I decided I wanted a full-time job at Look Ahead. So, I started up volunteering two hours a day for a few months. Little by little, I got to know the organisation better and picked up new skills. When a vacancy opened, I applied and got the job! I worked at reception, before I got seconded to a facilities officer position in 2017. 

I’ve worked on some big projects. During the pandemic,  for instance, my team and I managed the PPE central stock for the whole organisation. We had to procure it from every source and build a centralised stock which I personally oversaw, we rented a store near where I live, so I could walk to and avoid public transport. I am happy to say we were able to ensure all our services had the stick they needed.

My team manages Look Ahead's entire grounds maintenance and cleaning contract portfolio as well and in addition of the security and concierges' contract, and our utilities portfolio for gas and electricity. We played a big part roley when we moved from Westminster to our new workspace at Cally Yard and we also support the implementation of new services.

If I do my job as best I can, there’s a domino effect. Our services and properties can run more smoothly, which is better for our customers. I love Look Ahead because I get to have an impact.

Look Ahead invest in staff and celebrate our achievements. Last year for instance, I was promoted to Assistant Facilities Manager, and I also completed my National General Certificate in Occupational Health & Safety (NEBOSH). Previously, I won the staff award for Aspiration.

Look Ahead has really changed my life and career in the best way. It’s like a second family to me.