Meet Juliana Sharkey | Principal Partner of small business

We had the good fortune of connecting with Juliana Sharkey and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Juliana, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
I have been in the A&D industry since 1996 and the key factor contributing to the success of my brand is my active engagement within the South Florida architectural and design community. This entails actively participating as a guest instructor at FIU through materials classes and serving as a respected board member of IIDA, a membership that has provided me with invaluable opportunities to engage in charitable endeavors.

From a young age, my father instilled in me the fundamental principle of “Do What You Say & Say What You Do,” emphasizing that trust, credibility, and relationships are the cornerstones of success, especially in the realm of sales. It comes as no surprise that individuals gravitate towards making purchases from individuals they are familiar with, admire, and trust.

I take great pride in maintaining an unwaveringly positive reputation within my market and among my industry peers. My ability to cultivate likability and form enduring relationships has proven to be nothing short of indispensable on this journey to success. This ability was strikingly evident during my transition from an independent representative in 2013 to my role as a 3form sales representative and to ownership role when my partner and I acquired the Bierman Group in 2019. I seamlessly carried forward the same rapport and impact I had established, leaving no discernible gap in my professional journey.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My career journey has been marked by a relentless drive to innovate and adapt to changing circumstances. I began my professional journey back in 1996 when I joined The Bierman Group, a dynamic multi-line contract furniture manufacturer’s representative group. My initial role was in operations and sales, and it was here that I laid the foundation for what would become a transformative career.

One of the earliest highlights of my tenure at The Bierman Group was my introduction of a program aimed at streamlining various critical aspects of our operations. I worked diligently to enhance accounting, commission tracking, and customer relationship management (CRM) processes. This initiative not only boosted efficiency within the company but also set me on a path of continuous improvement that would define my professional identity.

Over the years, I stayed committed to my role at The Bierman Group, steadily climbing the ladder of success. The trust and confidence of my colleagues and superiors motivated me to keep pushing the boundaries of what was possible in our industry. Little did I know that my journey was about to take an exciting turn in 2013.

In 2013, I decided to explore new horizons and embraced a direct sales position at 3form, a renowned architectural products company. This transition was a pivotal moment in my career, allowing me to broaden my horizons within the architecture and design (A&D) community. At 3form, I faced fresh challenges and had the opportunity to expand my professional network, further enriching my skill set and industry knowledge.

Leaving The Bierman Group was not a farewell but rather a “see you later.” The founder, Randy Bierman, had such unwavering faith in my potential that he insisted I keep the key to his office, foreseeing my eventual return. In 2018, fate would align our paths again as Randy approached me and another former colleague, Maria Canovas, with a unique proposition. He wished to pass the torch of leadership to us and entrusted us with the responsibility of purchasing and running the group upon his retirement.

On April 1, 2019, our journey as business owners began, and The Bierman Group officially became our venture. We embarked on a mission to make the company truly our own, reflecting our values, vision, and commitment to excellence. However, our aspirations were soon met with the unforeseen challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.

During these trying times, we demonstrated resilience and resourcefulness. Instead of succumbing to the adversity, we utilized the period of uncertainty to our advantage. We revamped our showroom, ensuring it was a showcase of our dedication to quality. We also developed a robust online presence through an innovative website, which became our stronghold in navigating the turbulent market conditions.

While the COVID-19 pandemic presented unique and unprecedented challenges, it ultimately allowed us the opportunity to evolve and strengthen The Bierman Group. Through determination, creativity, and unwavering teamwork, we emerged from this crisis stronger than ever, ready to face whatever the future may bring.

My career has been a testament to the power of innovation, resilience, and the importance of nurturing relationships in the professional world. I am proud of the journey I’ve undertaken, the lessons I’ve learned, and the team that has stood by me through thick and thin. As my story continues to unfold, I want the world to know that The Bierman Group is not just a business; it’s a reflection of our unwavering commitment to excellence and adaptability in the face of adversity.

Regenerate

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
In my pursuit of the perfect blend of old and new, Miami never disappoints. I begin my day with a delightful breakfast at Versailles on Calle Ocho, where I indulge in Cafe con leche and Pastellitos. My journey takes me to Coral Gables, where I immerse myself in the timeless beauty of The Venetian Pool and the grandeur of The Biltmore Hotel. A visit to Vizcaya adds another layer of historical charm to my day.

For the next leg of my adventure, I head to Brickell City Centre, a hub of modernity, where I enjoy lunch at Casa Tua Cucina and indulge in some shopping. Later in the day, I make my way to Sugar for tapas and cocktails, savoring the contemporary culinary delights of Miami.

While Miami Beach is always an enticing option, I opt for a different experience by heading to Wynwood and The Design District. Here, I can’t resist the allure of Michael’s Genuine, a Miami classic, or the vibrant atmosphere of Bakan, where Margaritas flow freely. A visit to the Perez Art Museum is a must for a quick dose of culture, and Verde provides a perfect spot to enjoy a meal with a view of the breathtaking Biscayne Bay.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I have been a member of IIDA SFC for over twenty years and a board member for the last 15 years. I am grateful for the relationships that I have cultivated and the support I have received from the organization. I would encourage IIDA membership to any member of the architectural and design community.

I would also be remiss if I did not mention my loving husband and three daughters. Their support and encouragement have been unwavering throughout this journey. They have provided purpose and inspiration during the the ups and downs and have brought joy to my life.

Website: www.thebiermangroup.com

Instagram: julianasharkey; thebiermangroup

Linkedin: Juliana Sharkey; The Bierman group

Facebook: Juliana Ambrosio Sharkey