Chairman of the Board | Corporate Auctioneer | Co-Founder – OBrien Real Estate

REIV Auction Chapter Chairman | Industry Leader | Philanthropist

With over three decades of unwavering dedication to the real estate industry, Stavros Ambatzidis is a name synonymous with excellence, energy, and elite auctioneering across Victoria. Having called more than 4,000 auctions, facilitating over $100 million in Auction property sales annually, whilst maintaining a clearance rate consistently above 80%, Stavros has not only become one of Victoria’s most recognised auctioneers, but also a respected mentor, business leader, and community champion.

Since launching his career in 1991, Stavros has held numerous roles – from Sales Consultant to Franchise Founder, from Business Owner to Corporate Auctioneer. His journey has been defined by a fierce commitment to raising standards across the real estate landscape. As the Corporate Auctioneer and Chairman of the Board at OBrien Real Estate, he plays a pivotal role in shaping the brand's auction culture and leading one of the most dynamic and high-performing teams in the country.

Leadership with Impact

Joining OBrien Real Estate in 2013 as Co-Director, Stavros has been instrumental in expanding the brand to over 40 offices statewide. He is a driving force behind many of the group’s most strategic initiatives, including corporate auction training, recruitment, media presence, and professional development. His leadership has helped the network earn accolades such as REIV Large Agency of the Year and Victorian Rural Agent of the Year, affirming OBrien’s position as a market leader.

Stavros’s leadership style is grounded in integrity, trust, and an unrelenting focus on people. He creates a high-performance environment where growth is nurtured, skills are sharpened, and excellence is the baseline. His authenticity, charisma, and passion make him an inspiring figure for agents and auctioneers alike.

A Master Auctioneer

From local homes to high-value rural and commercial properties, Stavros has mastered every facet of the auction craft. His auctions are known for their energy, precision, and emotional intelligence, helping clients achieve the best possible outcome while making the experience rewarding and memorable. On multiple occasions, his auctions have topped statewide results, and his expertise has been featured on Channel 9, SEN, and Rythmos Greek Radio. As REIV Auction Chapter Chairman, he is committed to elevating the profession across Victoria, mentoring the next generation of auctioneers and ensuring best practice industry standards.

Philanthropy & Community

A strong believer in giving back, Stavros is the proud Founder and Chairman of the OBrien Real Estate Foundation, established in 2018 in honour of his late father. The Foundation supports a wide range of causes—from Beyond Blue, MND Victoria, and Food Bank, to Helping Hoops, Wildlife Victoria, and the Carrum Coast Guard Fun Run—raising over $500,000 for various charities to date.

Community is at the heart of everything Stavros does. Whether it's mentoring young agents, supporting grassroots causes, or building strong client relationships, he leads with compassion, honesty, and a genuine desire to make a difference.

Recent Achievements:

· REIV - Large Agency of the Year x 2 Winner (2 years running) – OB Chelsea

· REIV - Vic Rural Agent (Stavros) & Agency (OB Chelsea) of the Year – OB Chelsea

· REIV - Finalist Large Agency of the Year – OB Chelsea

· REIV - Community Award Winner – OB Foundation

Legacy & Vision

A proud Mornington Peninsula local since 1977, Stavros is a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. Away from work, you’ll find him supporting local events, playing competitive tennis, tending to his veggie garden or enjoying time with his family.

With an unmatched depth of experience—having owned and operated 10 offices, co-founded two franchise groups - Mornington Peninsula Real Estate (2000 Jan - 2006 Jun) & OBrien Real Estate (2013 July - current), and played key roles in 17 businesses—Stavros’s influence spans far beyond the auction floor. His commitment to excellence, industry innovation, and community service continues to shape the future of real estate in Victoria.

Above all, Stavros believes in the power of honesty, hard work, and loving what you do—values that have earned him a reputation as one of Victoria’s premier property auctioneers and real estate leaders.