A Profile of Aundrea Aimaro

Known for her sharp problem-solving skills, adaptability, and passion for building relationships, Aundrea Aimaro is the crucial link between customers, technicians, and their clients at Thoreau Facility Services in Chicago.

Her ascent into facilities management wasn’t planned, but her natural ability to excel in fast-paced, high-pressure roles prepared her to thrive in this field. Starting as an entry-level coordinator, Aundrea’s dedication and knack for learning quickly have propelled her into leadership at the organization, where she oversees a team of 50 and helps clients streamline operations and reduce costs. Thoreau Facility Services is a woman-founded company established in 1990 by Nicki Frank.

“Getting to see a wide variety of different workspaces and environments is fascinating and fun,” she said.

Before entering the facilities management field, Aundrea worked in logistics, route design, and customer service – all high-pressure, fast-paced roles that prepared her for the demands of her current position.

“Facilities just kind of fell into my lap,” she admitted. “I was looking for a new position, saw a job listing, and was lucky enough to interview and land the job.” She’s continued to move up in the company through promotions.

“We’ve more than quadrupled in size since the 90s,” said Aundrea. Today, the company serves a broad range of clients, including retailers, restaurants, and co-working spaces.

“Companies hire us as an outsourced facilities management resource to help them cut costs,” said Aundrea. “They don’t need as many internal team members because they can depend on us.”

Aundrea’s career reflects her ability to learn quickly and take on new challenges. She’s learned how to be a construction project manager and site superintendent, but what she likes best is the people – customers, co-workers, and vendors.

“I love working with my team, helping train them and watching them grow,” she said. “I enjoy figuring out exactly what they want to do and putting them on the path to achieve success. Not everyone fits into the same box, so it’s about looking at the bigger picture.”

Aundra is passionate about building relationships. “I’ve had a client say, ‘You all help me sleep better at night,’ and that’s one of the best compliments I’ve ever received. Facilities departments are often just one- or two-person shows, so they need a partner they can count on. Knowing we’re here for them 24/7 really changes the game.”

Leading a team of schedulers, account managers, regional managers, and technicians, Aundrea emphasized collaboration. While many of the company’s services are subcontracted, Thoreau also employs in-house technicians, including electricians and plumbers.

Reflecting on some of the most demanding times in her career, Aundrea recalled the early days of the pandemic. “Hundreds, if not thousands of client locations had to be boarded up. It was all hands-on deck for weeks at a time – finding crews, securing materials, and ensuring everyone’s safety. It was intense.” Hurricane seasons bring their own chaos, but Aundrea thrives in these high-stake situations.

“We’re in the business of problem-solving and brand protection. We ensure whoever enters your building will have the best experience possible, whether that means fixing a broken light, eliminating a trip hazard, or addressing a strange smell.”

To stay actively engaged in FM learning, Aundrea is involved in industry associations like the Restaurant Facility Management Association (RFMA) and Connex.

She commutes 38 miles each way to the office, often using the drive to make phone calls and check in with her team. “Every day is different,” she said. “There are team meetings, client calls, leadership discussions, and pricing reviews. I’m always learning something new and that’s one of my favorite parts of the job. There’s no way I’ll ever know everything about facilities management, and I love that.”

For professional development, Aundrea recommended Traction: Get a Grip on Your Business by Gino Wickman. “It’s transformed how we prioritize tasks, run meetings, and keep the business moving forward. She also emphasized embracing challenges, staying open to new opportunities, and supporting team members.

Aundra credited her mentor, CEO John Fairclough, for inspiring her leadership style. “He grew up in poverty and has built several successful businesses. He’s helped me see the bigger picture and taught me the value of caring for every single employee. He’s also proud of the fact that our leadership team consists of mostly women.”

In every aspect of her role, Aundrea talks enthusiastically about problem-solving, adaptability and teamwork. “We fix things,” she said simply. “We’re the magicians who protect your brand and ensure your facility runs smoothly.”

Aundrea remains grounded in her personal life. Outside of work, Aundrea enjoys reading, trying new restaurants, and spending time with her husband and their dog.

“I love traveling, and am planning a trip to Italy,” she said. When it’s freezing in Chicago, she focuses on home improvement projects.

For those curious about facility management career options, Aundrea offered these suggestions.

“Don’t give up. Embrace every opportunity to learn. And remember, there’s always more to learn.”