Meet Helen Ballard, Associate Director for Mobilisations at Macro

With a background spanning senior roles across Commercial Offices, Pharma, and retail facilities management (FM), Helen brings over a decade of experience and a passion for solving complex challenges. Her FM journey began with a specialist focus - but a drive for continuous improvement and broader impact led her to Macro, where she now leads strategic mobilisations across diverse sectors.

Outside of work, she’s a dedicated triathlete - balancing high-performance sport with a demanding career. In this Q&A, she shares how she’s built her career, what fuels her resilience, and the skills she believes are key to success in FM today.

Tell me about yourself and your current role.

I am currently an Associate Director for Mobilisations, with previous roles at Macro as the Portfolio Lead for Commercial Offices & Pharma and the Account Lead for City Plumbing Supplies. My journey with Macro began as a Regional FM.

Prior to this I worked for a leading builders’ merchants as their Group Racking Manager. Beyond my working life, I’m an avid triathlete. I dedicate my own time to training and competing in triathlons, ranging from sprint distances to the challenging Half Ironman (70.3).

What led you to your current career path?

For 24 years, I dedicated my career to a specific area within FM, and I was eager to broaden my knowledge and engage in other FM areas. I sought a company that offered the chance for personal and professional development, as well as the ability to contribute meaningfully. I see myself as a problem-solver and firmly believe in the pursuit of a better way, constantly seeking to refine and improve operations.

What are you most proud of accomplishing?

In my career, a significant step was taking on a role that meant working away from home, seeing my husband only on weekends for several years. Whilst personally challenging, this period was crucial for my professional growth, gaining respect in my field and leading to my opportunity with Macro.

On a personal note, I’m proud of the balance I’ve struck between training for triathlons and my full-time job, a reflection of my commitment to both my career and my passion for the sport I love.

W𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐬𝐤𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐬 𝐝𝐨 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐞 𝐠𝐨𝐨𝐝 𝐚𝐭 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐣𝐨𝐛?

To succeed in my role, integrity is essential. It’s about consistently doing the right thing, being customer-focused, managing time and priorities effectively, troubleshooting with precision, being organised, whilst keeping focus on the ultimate goal. These attributes are essential for excelling in my role and upholding the highest standards of service.