The individuals Amesha Barnes oversees may be just as diverse and distinct as the structures they manage.

As a facilities services manager within the Facilities Management Division, her aim is to see all of them thrive.

“You will begin at a certain point, and it’s your choice whether to remain there or to advance. And when you progress, you uplift others along with you,” she shared.

Barnes has experienced that same encouragement since her initial days at the University of Georgia. She started her journey at Joe Frank Harris Dining Commons while still a student at Cedar Shoals High School. Subsequently, she took a role as a facilities services worker at Creswell Hall and was part of University Housing for a decade.

At that juncture, Barnes sought a fresh challenge and accepted a position as a facilities services lead at the Veterinary Teaching Hospital. In that capacity, she also acted as the facilities services lead for the Poultry Diagnostic Research Center and several other buildings.

In May 2024, Barnes assumed her current role as a facilities services manager, directing four facilities services supervisors and overseeing more than 20 structures across Central Campus, including the Tate Student Center and the Miller Learning Center.

“I genuinely enjoy collaborating with people,” she expressed. “Each building and supervisor has unique needs, distinct requirements, and varying personalities, and all of that is fascinating to uncover.”

Her duties and obligations may fluctuate daily, but addressing her teams’ needs remains her highest priority. Barnes also manages employee relations and coordinates training and other development initiatives for her team. For her, effective communication is essential, and she encourages her staff to feel at ease approaching her with their requirements.

“I must serve as a support system for my supervisors and leads and help steer them,” she stated. “Our clients are significant, but our employees are the foundation.”

Barnes dedicates time to her own training and personal growth to ensure she provides the most reliable and precise information to her staff. This includes opportunities such as participating in a Finance and Administration committee.

Her day typically commences with responding to emails. Following that, Barnes engages in administrative duties like approving attendance and time off. Afterward, she might check in with her teams, attend to work orders, visit her buildings, or participate in meetings.

Barnes consistently endeavors to encourage her supervisors and leads to advance further by sharing leadership insights and presenting development opportunities. She is always available for support but also aims to assist them in resolving issues independently. By imparting her knowledge, she nurtures the growth of others.

“I must strive to be the best version of myself for them,” she affirmed. “You are only as effective as your leadership.”

Barnes not only pushes her team to excel, but she also challenges herself.

“It’s not about your starting point. It’s about your destination,” she remarked.

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