DEVELOPER · CEO
In 1990, while operating an airport snack cart, Kirk Ivy had no idea that less than ten years later
he would be CEO of his first successful company.
Kirk Ivy’s journey has been defined by responsibility, resilience, and a passion for building—both businesses and communities. Early experiences sparked an entrepreneurial spirit that led from co-founding a tech company in Jamaica to launching Ivy Design Build, known for its clean, efficient, and detail-driven approach to high-end construction. Today, Kirk is focused on bringing the journey full circle with purpose and impact.
COMPANIES
IVEY DESIGN BUILD
IVEY DEVELOPMENT
1999
Jamaica
Sowing the Seeds of Leadership and Duty in Jamaica
At just 12 years old, Kirk was already managing the household finances in Jamaica while his mother worked overseas. She would send money home, and Kirk took on the responsibility of budgeting and distributing it—something that taught him not just about finances, but about discipline, trust, and stepping up when needed.
1992
Entrepreneurial beginnings.
Kirk featured in a magazine from this time.
The Entrepreneurial Spark Ignites
While still in school, I worked at Sangster International Airport selling snacks and drinks to travelers. I made commission on sales and pushed hard during holidays, often making more than adults around me. I also dabbled in currency exchange at the time—looking back, I think this was where the entrepreneurial spark truly ignited.
1999
A career pivot.
Pivot the Path –From Engineering to Business
I enrolled in aircraft engineering at UTech (formerly CAS), thinking it sounded cool. But one year in, I realized I hated getting my hands dirty—it just didn’t fit who I was. A conversation with the school’s business counselor nudged me toward a different direction. I explored business courses and started seeing myself differently: not just as a student, but as a builder of ideas.
1999
A step into leadership.
Building NetTech – A Crash Course in Growth
My early work experience led me to co-found NetTech, a network cabling and IT company in Jamaica. We grew rapidly, landing contracts with banks, IBM, and even built out the infrastructure for Jamaica’s first call center. I had a team of 16 and ran large-scale projects island-wide—it was my crash course in leadership, operations, and the real grit of business.
1992
Hospitality and building.
A step into hospitality and building.
The Game-Changer – SuperClubs U.S. Partnership
One project changed everything: a meeting with a U.S.-based tech firm looking to network SuperClubs hotels in Jamaica. I saw an opportunity and secured a role as their local partner, not just another vendor. That move opened doors and introduced me to working cross-border—bridging local execution with global standards.
1999
Miami, USA.
Taking the Leap – Moving to the U.S.
In 2005, I moved to the U.S. for a business opportunity—taking all I’d learned in Jamaica and starting from scratch in Miami. My first project was Uptown Marina Lofts. Then came the 2008 crash. I had to tighten up, live on a small salary I paid myself, and rely on financial habits my mother unknowingly taught me. That season tested me, but I stayed afloat.
1999
IVEY Design Build founded.
Creating A Way In – The (aptly named) Marquee Project
I offered to volunteer at the Marquee Residences, setting up networks and sitting in on business meetings—just to learn how things worked in the U.S. Real estate. Within a year, I went from unpaid help to managing the building, leading punch list operations, working with designers, and running day-to-day operations. It was a defining chapter—and the seed of Ivy Design Build.
2011
IVEY Design Build founded.
Kirk featured in a magazine from this time.
Founding Ivy Design Build
In 2011, I officially launched Ivy Design Build. Our mission: deliver clean, efficient, and transparent build-outs for high-end designers and developers. No commissions, just honest work and smart execution. We built a strong reputation by staying client-focused and detail-driven—keeping job sites so clean, clients would joke they could sleep there.
1999
IVEY Design Build founded.
Relationships Over Transactions
Over the years, I’ve built real friendships with vendors, designers, and clients who share the same values—integrity, pride in craft, and respect. People like Decorators Plumbing, MV Group, and others have been part of that journey. It’s never just about projects. It’s about building a community of professionals who believe in quality over shortcuts.
1999
IVEY Design Build founded.
The Next Chapter – Ivy Development
Now, I’m expanding into Ivy Development—a boutique real estate brand focused on affordable, quality housing for the very people who help build luxury. Think housekeepers, doormen, maintenance teams—people who deserve beautiful homes too. Our first project is in Ocho Rios. We’re not just building structures—we’re building dignity, community, and opportunity.