Our People

Proven Management Team

Bensons has a multi-skilled team of experts that ensure:
  • Attractive projects with significant development profits are identified and secured.
  • Projects are steered smoothly through the planning phases.
  • Construction is consistently delivered on time and within budget.
  • Products are marketed and sold successfully, even in difficult market conditions.
Board

Elias Jreissati - Group Chairman

Elias' leadership has cemented BPG as one of the most successful diversified property companies in Victoria.  Elias founded BPG in 1994.



Rick Curtis - Managing Director

Rick has over 25 years experience in property financing, development and asset management.  He was previously CEO of a listed funds management and financial services group.  Rick will continue to drive BPG's continued diversification into commercial property sectors and property funds management.



Michael Foley - Executive Deputy Chairman

Michael has over 30 years experience in property related businesses including senior banking, property finance, real estate and management roles.



Phillip Briggs - Finance Director

Phillip is a CPA with over 30 years experience in senior finance roles in Australia and other countries. He has worked in the accounting profession, manufacturing, import and distribution, and more recently in financial services and property funds management. Phillip is responsible for the management of BPG's finance, human resources, IT and operations teams.



Michael Burstin - Non Executive Director

Michael co-founded Bensons Property Group in 1994 and until 2005 worked as an executive director in many areas of the organisation.  Today, he is the Chair of the tax and audit committee.



Victor Perton - Non Executive Director

With almost two decades in public life as an MP and Shadow Minister, Victor brings to the Board wide skills, diverse networks and a commitment to excellent corporate governance.  Victor is a regulatory affairs advocate, a Victorian barrister, and a Graded Arbitrator.  He also serves as a Director of the Transport Accident Commission.

Senior Management

Harry Granek - Director of Developments

Harry has 34 years experience in the design and delivery of complex projects in all stages of feasibility, planning, design, construction, documentation and contract administration. His expertise stems from qualifications both in civil engineering and architecture.



Peter Hua  - Director Sales & Marketing

Peter has over 15 years of sales and marketing experience with an excellent track record as a specialist property development marketer.  He has personally led the sales and marketing of more than 1,000 properties valued at in excess of $600m in value with one of Australia's leading residential developers.



Chris Smirnakos - General Manager Investments & Acquisitions

Chris has been involved in the property industry for over 20 years, is an Associate of the Australian Property Institute (API) and a Certified Practising Valuer.  He is responsible for investment and development strategy of the company, and the acquisition of future projects.



Steven Zigomanis - Group Financial Controller

Steve is a CPA and has over 17 years experience in various financial roles in the mining, manufacturing, banking and funds management industries. He has extensive experience in respect of management and statutory reporting, financial forecasting, project evaluation, systems implementation and corporate restructures and acquisitions.



Robert Dicintio - Fund Manager - BRSPF 

Robert has over 20 years experience in property management and the retail industry. He was previously a senior leasing and development executive at a listed diversified property group.  Robert is responsible for the overall management of the Bensons Retail Strip Property Fund.



Trevor Marriott - General Manager - Investment Services

Trevor is responsible for overseeing investor and advisor relations at Bensons. Trevor has over 30 years experience in industry and professional services including corporate finance, property development and manufacturing. He has held a variety of senior management positions during this time and was previously a Director of a leading global accounting and advisory firm.



Andrew Hutchinson, Fund Manager – BURF

Andrew holds a Bachelor of Business (Property) and Graduate Diploma Applied Finance, is an associate of the Australian Property Institute and a registered valuer. Andrew has gained extensive experience over 16 years in valuations, acquisitions and development management, and investment management at three major property groups – Colliers, Sunland Group and Industry Superannuation Property Trust in addition to his own property investments and small projects.



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