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Marisa Sharkey

Co-founder and President at Birdies

Marisa Sharkey is the Co-founder, President, and Chief Operating Officer of Birdies, Inc., a footwear company she founded with her friend Bianca Gates in 2015.12 Birdies specializes in stylish, comfortable shoes that combine the support of a sneaker, the softness of a slipper, and the style of a luxury flat.5

Before co-founding Birdies, Sharkey had an extensive career in retail and strategy:

  1. Group Vice President of Corporate Strategy at Ross Stores (2010-2015)4
  2. Manager at Bain and Company (2003-2010)4
  3. Equity Research Associate at Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette (1999-2001)4
  4. Analyst in Mergers and Acquisitions at Salomon Smith Barney (1997-1999)4

Sharkey holds an MBA in Strategic Management and Finance from The Wharton School and a BS in Business Management from Cornell University.24

As a leader, Sharkey describes herself as a hands-on operator with a detail-oriented approach and high expectations.1 She is proud that Birdies was certified as a B Corp in 2022, reflecting the company's commitment to social and environmental performance.13

Sharkey is also involved in supporting women's organizations. She advises early-stage entrepreneurs and serves on the Board of Directors of Women's Empowerment, an organization supporting homeless women in building employment skills.6

Related Questions

What inspired Marisa Sharkey to transition from a risk-averse career to entrepreneurship?
How did Marisa Sharkey's background in retail strategy influence the creation of Birdies?
What challenges did Marisa Sharkey face when starting Birdies, and how did she overcome them?
How did Meghan Markle's involvement impact Birdies' growth and brand recognition?
What are some of the key strategies Marisa Sharkey has implemented to grow Birdies?
Marisa Sharkey
Marisa Sharkey, photo 1
Marisa Sharkey, photo 2
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Location

San Francisco Bay Area