A historic office reinvigorated by new local leadership
The legacy Barry Plant Coburg office is embarking on a new chapter of growth and innovation, as the ownership baton is passed once again, this time to Coburg-born and bred Fadi Khoder, who is returning to his roots to lead the office. This transition marks the acquisition of the office from long-standing directors David Devlin and Rocco Siciliano.
A cornerstone of the Barry Plant Group with a rich history dating back to 1958, the Coburg office was originally established as the first EJ Doherty office. Over the decades, it has been a beacon of excellence in the local real estate market and a pivotal part of the Barry Plant network.
Vic Care, one of the founding Barry Plant Group Directors along with Barry, began his illustrious career here in 1970. Starting his career as a salesman with EJ Doherty Real Estate over 45 years ago when Doherty’s was established in Coburg in 1958, then acquiring the business in 1974.
Within a decade, the then two offices expanded to a network of 24.
Care said it’s great to see the Coburg office continues to uphold its ‘unparalleled reputation for integrity and great service’.
Vic Care
Vic's vision and strategic direction were instrumental in transforming the business into a powerhouse real estate network throughout Melbourne. His efforts culminated in the merger with Barry Plant in 1999, initially forming Barry Plant Doherty and then simplified back to Barry Plant some time later, both names synonymous with real estate excellence.
“It's fantastic to see fresh energy and leadership reinvigorate this office, ensuring its legacy continues."
Barry Plant CEO Lisa Pennell said the acquisition is an important step in a broader strategy to strengthen the northern corridor for the brand.
“Fadi is a fair and strategic leader who will no doubt identify the right people to bolster the business and empower them to achieve success.”
Barry Plant Coburg director Fadi Khoder, who is already prominent in the local community, steps into the leadership role at Coburg during a challenging yet promising time for the office. Despite facing a tough and competitive market, Fadi is optimistic about the future.
"Like any changeover, all I could see in the business was opportunity, everywhere I looked,” said Fadi.
“It’s still a work in progress but we are making some great changes and are already seeing very promising signs.”
“The original team has largely stayed with the business, we’re simply implementing more training and better guidance, and aligning our marketing with the fresh new Barry Plant branding."
Fadi's deep connection to Coburg and his commitment to excellence drive his vision for the office.
"Our aim is to get the business back up there in the next couple of years," he said.
“This office was always in the top 10 offices in the state, and we are working tirelessly to reclaim that position as soon as possible.”
Barry Plant Head of Marketing Monika Kamienowska, shares Fadi’s sentiments, “We know from our long standing and loyal clients that the Barry Plant Coburg office is deeply embedded in the history of the area, as well as the heart of its residents. Fadi understands this rich heritage, but can also capture what our brand stands for today, a brand that resonates with a diverse range of clients through an exceptional level of service. Backed by his strategic marketing approach, Fadi’s goals are well within reach.”
Ex-Coburg and current Barry Plant Craigieburn director David Devlin said the landmark office has enjoyed great success but it’s the ‘end of an era’.
“We now pass the baton onto Fadi to continue the legacy, and we have no doubt he will do the office and network proud,” he said.
“He’s been in the business a long time, his experience, paired with his status in the area and surrounds, will give the office a new lease on life.”
The Barry Plant Coburg office is poised for a dynamic new phase, building on its storied past while embracing future opportunities under Fadi Khoder's leadership.