Meet Julia Davis of BK Pilates

Today we’d like to introduce you to Julia Davis

Hi Julia , so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I fell into real estate over 20 years ago and have gravitated into hospitality during that time as well. I currently have a boutique strategic consulting firm that specializes in real estate, hospitality and lifestyle brands. Prior to starting my consultancy, I served as Chief Development Officer of the Americas for Soho House – responsible for the oversight and negotiation of Soho House & Co development deals in North and South America.

In my current role, I provide my expertise to leadership teams of companies in the lifestyle, real estate and hospitality sector(s). I have an extensive background in real estate transactions and development, strategy and placemaking, including the roles of Global Head of Real Estate Transactions at WeWork, Director of Real Estate at Breather and various roles with JLL. I have followed my curiosity, opportunities and took on challenges throughout my career. This has allowed me to travel extensively and live in DC, SF, NYC and London. Raleigh has always been home, and during the pandemic I moved back.

I have an entrepreneurial spirit and love of wellness, which is what brings me to my latest venture with Marina Kaydanova and BK Pilates Raleigh. I have been a long-time student and teacher of pilates and yoga in addition to my career in real estate and hospitality. During my time in NYC, I met Marina when I took one of her early morning pilates classes. The instructor-student relationship quickly morphed into a friendship and now a business partnership.

We can’t wait to open our doors in early 2025 to BK Pilates Raleigh at Rockway at the intersection of S. Saunders Street and Lake Wheeler Road.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I wouldn’t say it’s been a smooth road, it’s been a journey. I do believe that “everything brings you to your next chapter.” There have been different challenges with every role and/or client. In some cases, it was difficult people, others, unrealistic expectations or combating male-dominated industries. Let’s put it this way, I have been told many times, I’m resilient and strong. And I’m at a point in my life where I want to put my efforts and energy into something that is mine and I’m passionate about. Thrilled to be doing that with Marina and BK Pilates.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
I have cross-functional expertise in modern real estate strategies and creative direction — across hospitality, office, retail, and flex product types. Given my experience and background with Soho House, JLL, WeWork and Breather I’m well-positioned to assist lead or assist companies with real estate development, business and growth strategy, placemaking, operations and other aspects of the business.

Working in entrepreneurial and lifestyle organizations, I have learned to be a strategic leader, critical thinker, problem-solver, and team player. I have built and managed functional and multi-disciplined teams and verticals and crafted and implemented business strategy. Given this, I don’t fit into a “box” and I love that.

I’ve been a long-time student and teacher of pilates and yoga in addition to my career in real estate and hospitality. I’m a Raleigh local and entrepreneur and have teamed up with Marina Kaydanova, owner of BK Pilates, to bring the pilates brand to Raleigh.

There are a few career accomplishments that I’m proud of, but for me, top of list are the relationships that I have made and nurtured. Whether in my leadership roles at Soho House or WeWork, or when consulting with various clients.

All of my positions and clients have been via my network, and I’m always honored and flattered when an old client reaches out for repeat business or refers me to a new client, or an employee or member of a client company reaches out for mentorship and advice.

Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
I talk to a lot of people who are early in their careers, or looking to make a professional change. I usually start by asking them several questions. The whats, wheres and whys to better understand interests and skill set so that I can advise.

I’d encourage newcomers to rank what is most important to them: location, sector/asset class, company or role and prioritize their efforts accordingly.

In general, know that when they are early in their career it is a give-and-get. They are giving of their time and work product to a senior team member/the company, in return they are gaining the knowledge and experience to build from.

And, I’m old school, but sending follow-up emails after meetings, showing up prepared and early for meetings, and listen/observe.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.bkpilatesraleigh.com
• Instagram: @bkpilatesrdu