Shari Cedar did not propose to direct a cleaning empire, but that is exactly what he is doing. The former television producer changed the study lights for sanitation logistics and now leads Ak Building Services, a fast -growing commercial cleaning company that serves customers in Florida with a team of more than 700.
Before becoming a force in the management of the facilities, Cedar was executive producing successful programs for networks such as Bravo, National Geographic and MTV. But after years in the high -risk world of transmission television, he longed for something new and found it in the challenge of building a family business rooted in transparency, technology and community impact solutions.
From disinfecting hospitals and high increases to advising young women in business, Cedar is demonstrating that leadership does not always follow a script, and that the second acts can even be powerful than the former.
In the following interview, Cedar shares its history, provides information on several hot topics within the construction industry and details how you are paying it within your community.
Tell us about your time in the television industry.
Absolutely, it was an incredible chapter of my life. Working Meeent constantly being alert, thinking creatively and collaborating with all kinds of people under adjusted deadlines.
I was lucky to be part of a dynamic industry where the story narration was in the heart of everything. He taught me how to handle chaos with grace and how to pivot rapidly, skills that have led to mark on each paper. While it was high pressure, it was also incredible gratifying and given a solid base for my career today.
What led you to change career?
It was a mixture of time and purpose. After years on television, I knew it was time for a change, Althegh was not completely sure what I wanted to do next, but I have always been a heart entrepreneur. There was definitely a transition period in which things were discovering, but what I could discover is that this is a true creativity in business. Building something from scratch, solving problems, connecting it with people, caused a completely new passion for me.
Joining Ak Building Services gave me the channel that business energy in something significant. Being part of a family business felt like the special movement of special ones rooted in values such as integrity and community. And yes, working with my husband may seem crazy for some, but for us, it works. We balance well and share the same vision for what we are building together. It has been one of the most rewarding decisions of my life.
You represent the company as a member of the International Network of the Association of Owners and Building Managers and Commercial Real Estate Women. What are some of the pressing themes for your industry?
One of the biggest conversations in our industry at this time focuses on healthy buildings, and cleaning services play an important role in that. The owners after the pandemic, the buildings and the property administrators are more focused than ever on cleaning, sanitation and interior air quality. There is a greater expectation that cleaning services go beyond appearances and really support the health and safety of tenants and visitors.
At the same time, there is a growing demand for sustainable cleaning practices, from the use of organic products to reduce waste and improve energy efficiency. Our role in cleaning services has become an essential partner in the creation of safe, healthy and welcoming environments.
Through my participation with Boma and Crew, I have seen how these conversations are shaping the construction standards and the expectations of the tenants. It is also excitement to be part of a broader impulse for innovation and inclusion, where service providers are seen not only as suppliers, but as key taxpayers to the general performance of a building and the well -being of the occupants.
You are a member of the Board at Pace Center for Girls. What is the mission of that organization?
The Pace Center for Girls is an organization very close to my heart. It provides academic and social support to girls who have faced significant challenges, helping them to commit to their education and build a solid basis for the future.
I deeply believe in tutoring and second opportunities. As a mentor and owner of a business, I always look for good in people, and I have seen firsthand that sometimes all needs are a model to follow positive and an opportunity for success.
Serving on the board has been an incredible and shocking experience. Pace girls are resistant, and it is an honor to be part of a program that helps them realize their potential and “finds good in each girl.”