I Teach Self-Storage Ops : Elevating Self-Storage Operations Through Collaboration and Innovation | Liberty Investment Properties
There's a need for a DMM If you're running remote, unmanned, or virtual self-storage operations, you might need a District Manager of Maintenance. For years, District Managers have been the way, and it's a structure that most have adopted for large portfolios. But just like store managers their role has evolved. With today's technology, District Managers should be able to do so much more. But their time is finite. One necessary drag that pulls their attention is physical site visits. Of course, they should still visit sites, but unnecessary windshield time kills high-level oversight, especially if no one is there to meet with them. The highest and best use of their time isn't jumping from site to site. So let's get them some help. Maybe it's time we design a role for a District Manager of Maintenance. A specialized role whose only job is quality control.
It’s a quality of life improvement for everyone. Unnecessary meetings that should be emails are real things. More one on one time is probably just better, a quick daily call to check in and see how their day is going works wonders!
You are so correct! a unique boots on the ground position is needed at these facilities. It’s a combination of a property manager and district manager. Quality control, emergencies, auctions, vendor management, etc.
I am still talking to lots of operators that are using manual and paper based walk through/rent roll/brand standard processes... you mention "With today's technology, District Managers should be able to do so much more." do you see operators have committed to field service, vendor, work order, facilities and task management technology to free up that time for the DM's to review (in real time) what is happening in the field and free up that time?
We added a capital improvements team a few years ago that can help our clients.
Consulting Solutions for the Self Storage Industry
4moYes!!! Windshield time for someone trying to take care of customers and manage the day to day operations is a drain on them physically and mentally. A good maintnenace crew that can be relied on for solid facility walk thru and upkeep is essential! And the maintenance position has to be willing to serve as the eyes and ears for the employee handling the customer service side of things. If those two employees can work together they will have amazing results!