Meet Erin James

Erin James, executive director of communications and strategic initiatives, went from being Facilities Management’s first communications hire to building a team focused on highlighting its hardworking members. A true holiday enthusiast, Erin embraces all things festive—from window displays to peppermint treats—and treasures traditions like visiting the Rockefeller Center tree. As she approaches her 11-year anniversary, she shares what she enjoys most about Facilities and the holiday season.

What is your favorite part about working in Facilities Management?

When I first joined Facilities Management as a communications officer in 2011, it was a brand-new role, and I called myself a “fun team of one.” Since then, I’ve had the opportunity to grow with the department; it’s been an incredible journey.

One of my favorite parts of the job is finding ways to tell our [Facilities] team’s stories. Our team is full of incredibly talented and thoughtful people, and I love shining a light on all the hard work they do. We’re constantly in “go mode,” so taking a moment to celebrate their successes and share those moments through initiatives like [Faces of Facilities] is really special.

What’s your favorite part about the holidays?

Everything (laughs)—I wish I were joking. The food, the festivities, the decorations, taking time off to relax and unwind with family and friends. It’s really a magical time of year.

What’s your favorite thing to do in NYC during the holiday season?

I absolutely love checking out all the holiday window displays—Saks [Fifth Avenue] is always a favorite. There's something enchanting about seeing how everyone, no matter their age, lights up like a kid when they take in the creative and fun display. My sister and I also make it a tradition to catch the Radio City Rockettes Christmas Spectacular each year—such a classic! But my number-one must-do every holiday season is visiting the Rockefeller Center tree. One year, my 90-year-old grandmother walked a whole mile from the car to see it with us—she was hands-down the MVP of that trip!

Do you have any foods or drinks you especially like to eat or drink around the holidays?

Anything peppermint flavored- peppermint tea, peppermint mocha…peppermint hot chocolate. I put peppermint in everything.

Do you have any holiday traditions?

Growing up in Philly, my family would always attend midnight mass at church. They always had a bell choir that played a beautiful rendition of "Carol of the Bells." Now, there are certain shows or movies that I watch every year, like "It’s a Wonderful Life" and "The the Wizard of Oz."