Born in London in December 1963, Justin Berkmann is the second son of Joseph Berkmann and his second wife, Jean Berkmann (née Barwis) and younger brother of Marcus Berkmann, a successful author.
Berkmann is the founder of the nightclub and brand, Ministry of Sound[1] (now MSHK Group). Since its conception in 1991, the company has grown from a nightclub in London’s Elephant and Castle to a global multi-media business. Berkmann's initial involvement was from January 1990 until May 1994, and was resident DJ and Artistic Director during that period, he then rejoined in 2006 to build their franchise clubs in Singapore and Kuala Lumpur
Berkmann worked through the Wine Industry, with wine brokers MLC in Beaune and in Chassagne Montrachet with Albert Morey. In 1986, he moved to New York City and started to DJ, after visiting Paradise Garage. On the closing of the club in 1987, Berkmann moved back to London to build a similar club. He did that when he met James Palumbo and Humphrey Waterhouse at the end of 1989. Within 21 months the club Ministry of Sound was opened. Berkmann was in charge of booking the talent and being resident DJ until 1994.
Following this, Berkmann continued to DJ. He rejoined Ministry of Sound in 2006 to assist with the design and sound installation in the Ministry of Sound, Singapore, later to become Venues Development Manager for MoS International, and creating the concept and design for their club in Kuala Lumpur, Euphoria.