As we move further into 2025, the job market in industries such as HVAC, engineering, and asset management is experiencing notable shifts. There’s a growing demand for skilled professionals, particularly those with a strong mix of technical expertise and emotional intelligence. To provide a closer look at these trends and what they mean for the future, we spoke with Michael Crowe, a recruitment expert at Nova Partners, a boutique executive recruitment firm specializing in facilities management, engineering, and asset management.
Q: Michael, can you give us an overview of the current job market in asset management and engineering?
Michael Crowe: The market is definitely a mixed bag in 2025. There’s a solid demand for professionals with HVAC and trade-level skills. However, what’s becoming increasingly apparent is the shortage of strong managers—people who not only possess a solid understanding of asset management and engineering but also have exceptional communication skills. It’s no longer just about the technical know-how. Clients are now looking for candidates who can effectively navigate various functional areas while demonstrating emotional intelligence (EQ).
This means we’re seeing a shift towards professionals who can connect with a wide range of stakeholders, from technical teams to general management, customers, and suppliers. CEOs expect a level of stakeholder management skills that goes beyond the technical side.
Q: That’s an interesting point. Could you expand on how emotional intelligence and communication skills have become so critical?
Michael Crowe: Absolutely. There’s been a noticeable shift in expectations. Clients want professionals who understand the value of emotional intelligence, particularly in leadership roles. As industries become more complex, there’s a need for managers who can communicate across diverse groups—whether it's a technical team, a senior management team, or external partners. The ability to not only lead but to listen, empathize, and motivate has become just as important as technical skills. This is especially true in asset management roles where professionals are often in charge of long-term projects, which require effective communication with various stakeholders throughout the project lifecycle.
Q: With the rise of technology, how important is it for professionals in this field to stay updated with new tools and trends?
Michael Crowe: It’s essential. We’re seeing more and more clients seeking professionals with expertise in emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and asset innovations. The key is understanding how these technologies can help improve efficiency and foster innovation within asset management. If you’re not keeping up with the latest developments in tech, you could be missing out on opportunities to drive significant value in your projects. Whether it's through predictive maintenance, smart systems, or AI-based asset management tools, the role of technology is only growing, and professionals need to stay ahead of the curve.
Q: When it comes to career progression, is it better to work on the asset owner side or the contractor side of the industry?
Michael Crowe: That’s a great question, and it really depends on your career goals. There is a perception that working on the asset owner side, such as in a hospital or government role, offers more job security. However, in many cases, contractors—particularly those with long-term or Public-Private Partnership (PPP) contracts—can offer just as much security, if not more. The opportunity for career growth on the contractor side can be stronger, especially with the diversity of projects that come with being a contractor.
If someone is aiming to become a general manager (GM) or lead a large technical business, I would recommend gaining experience on both sides. Working on the asset owner side can give you a strong understanding of how assets are managed over the long term, while the contractor side exposes you to the complexities of delivering projects. Having experience in both areas allows you to build a more well-rounded skill set, which can be crucial for senior leadership roles.
To view currently advertised roles, please see IHEA Job Board below
Comments