Serial entrepreneur and businessman Larry Kestelman has followed his passion for people and business for over 30 years, building an impressive and diverse portfolio across numerous industries. Born in Odessa, Ukraine, Larry is a proud migrant success story, becoming one of Australia’s most respected self-made businessmen and a regular inclusion on the AFR Rich List. One of his most well-known ventures was founding the telecommunications provider Dodo in 2001, which he successfully grew and sold in 2013. Larry is the Executive Group Chairman of the LK Group, a family office that oversees close to 20 businesses spanning property, private equity, technology, sport, hospitality, and retail. A standout achievement is the six-star development Capitol Grand in South Yarra—the crown jewel of LK Property Group. Within Capitol Grand sits LK Hospitality’s two award-winning venues: Yugen Dining and Omnia Bistro & Bar, both of which earned two hats in 2023. In 2015, Larry took ownership of the National Basketball League (NBL), which has since grown into a thriving sports entertainment product with 10 teams across Australia and New Zealand. Under his leadership, the league has consistently set new records in attendance, membership, viewership and fan growth. Larry’s passion for business solutions is also reflected in the success of Acquire AI, an outsourced services provider employing more than 8,500 people across Australia, the Philippines, and the Dominican Republic. Queens Lane Capital (QLC) is the private equity arm of the LK Group, investing in established businesses with strong growth potential. Its first major investment was Petra Industries, which brings together premium building material brands including Signorino, Multiform, and Woodcut. In 2020, QLC acquired The PAS Group, preserving over 1,000 jobs during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. The following year, it merged with Brand Collective, creating a powerhouse retail group operating 350 stores and housing global brands such as Canada Goose, Reebok, and Everlast. In 2021, Daniel’s Donuts joined the QLC portfolio and, with their backing, rapidly expanded to over 50 locations across Victoria and New South Wales. The brand also partnered with 7-Eleven, making its most popular flavours available to consumers nationally. Most recently, QLC formed the Hypnos Group by acquiring leading sleep and bedding businesses, including Snooze, Future Sleep, and G&G Furniture, further strengthening its presence in the home and lifestyle sector. Community contribution is a key priority for Larry. The LK Group, under the leadership of Anita Pahor, has developed a strong corporate social responsibility strategy—driven through the Larita Academy, an intensive training program for at-risk young people in Victoria. The program is designed to build self-belief, fuel entrepreneurial drive, promote pathways to employment, and help form positive connections. Larry is a firm believer in the value of people and lifelong learning. Guided by the philosophy of accepting the fact “you don’t know what you don’t know,” he surrounds himself with strong leaders and specialists, cultivating a culture of excellence, recognition, and growth. Living the adage - Life is good! LIG!

As a business operations specialist, Boris’ unique set of skills bridges the gap between executive strategy and executing business operations. Over the span of almost a decade as Operations Manager, and then General Manager, at Dodo, Boris oversaw enormous growth in the business and was responsible for delivering revenue in excess of $200 million a year. In his capacity as General Manager of Dodo, he was instrumental in delivering organic growth for the business through increased sales and customer retention across their core telecommunications products. He led Dodo’s expansion into a wider range of essential services including power and gas, and car, home and contents insurance. Boris believes that intelligence is central to operating a successful business and this conviction proved central to his role in facilitating the $204 million sale of Dodo to M2 Group Ltd. Boris joined M2’s executive team as Consumer Director after the acquisition, bringing with him nine years of experience and operational knowledge. Here he was responsible for a business of more than a half billion dollars with varying interests, and lead a team of over 2,000 employees. Now as Chief Executive Officer at LKG, his role oversees a vast range of LK Property developments. Boris’ leadership is essential to the successful completion of the group’s largest and most ambitious project, Capitol Grand—worth more than $800 million.

Placing an emphasis on big-picture thinking, registered CPA and Chief Financial Officer Robert Rink is a storyteller with numbers who oversees each and every business within the LK Group. Robert began his finance career in public practice accounting prior to joining the Dodo finance team in 2003. Over the course of three years, Robert developed the finance team at Dodo through a 500% growth period. He also set up the finance function for five Dodo World retail stores and led the implementation of an entirely new financial system. Robert then moved to the Heat Group managing finances for some of the biggest brands like MaxFactor, Schwarzkopf and Red Earth before being recruited as the corporate finance manager for cosmetics giant L’Oreal in 2008. Over the next three years, Robert oversaw a team of 15 and managed the groups tax compliance and international tax issues. His work included managing a number of team within the finance arm of the business, preparing consolidated accounts and leading the full year and half year audit process for the L'Oreal finance team. In 2011, Robert returned to the LK Group to head up tax and compliance at both Dodo and other businesses within the group. He facilitated the sale of Dodo and upon completion only 18 months after returning was offered the position of CFO in 2013. Robert has grown his team from a solo operation to more than a dozen staff, who he enjoys mentoring to develop their skillsets and confidence. Finance gives an insight into a business, and Robert enjoys overseeing multiple businesses across a variety of industries through the LK Group and being able to analyse what makes them succeed. His particular interests are in international taxation, dealing with banks to assist with obtaining funding for the LK Group to support the numerous businesses and ideas within the group. He is a precise strategist who is able to oversee how each business fits within LK Group, and likes seeing the growth of an acquired business. When he’s not meeting with CEOs to discuss their strategy and revenue, Robert enjoys catching a game of NBL or an Essendon Footy match.

Scott is an award-winning senior executive and board member with extensive experience leading start-up companies, as well as large MNCs through aggressive growth phases. He started his career at 16 years old when he established the first Internet Service Provider in Mornington Peninsula, Victoria. He was a founding executive of Dodo Australia and was pivotal to its rapid growth as Australia’s largest private telecommunications company (which was subsequently sold to M2 Group and since merged with Vocus Communications). Scott initiated the merger of ASX-listed Eftel, which provided wholesale and corporate telecommunications services, and consumer brand ClubTelco, taking the reigns as CEO and increasing the market capitalisation from $16M to $53M through an on-market sale. He created Bet247, which became the most rapid-growing sports-betting company in the country and established a consumer electronics brand, Pendo Industries, which manufactures touch-screen electronics. In 2006, Scott established Acquire BPO as a captive environment in response to the lack of high-quality offshoring providers. He has since evolved the company into a full-scale outsourcer offering contact centre, back-office, automation and intelligence solutions, with exponential growth year on year. He drove the company’s global expansion, opening an office in Dallas, Texas and a nearshore delivery centre in the Dominican Republic to service the bilingual English and Spanish markets. In 2020, Scott led the acquisition of The Smart Group, an onshore outsourcing provider based in Melbourne, Australia, enabling the entry to new markets, including government and blue-chip companies with an Australian onshore mandate. Scott’s hands-on approach has led to Acquire’s success as an entrepreneurial business that is highly experienced in working with their partners to solve real-life problems quickly. He has built a team that is proficient in exceeding expectations, especially in situations where in-house teams may be typically challenged with the business processes of “big business.” Acquire now spans 15 state-of-the art locations in Australia, the Philippines, the US and the Dominican Republic with over 7,000 employees, PCI certification, SOC and HIPAA compliance attestations and is powered by world-leading technology. In addition to its Class A physical delivery locations, a comprehensive Work-from-Home environment operates across various countries. Apart from Acquire BPO, he also runs Yomojo, a national mobile phone company, Books365, a cloud-based bookkeeping company and SHORE Solutions, a sister company to Acquire BPO. Scott has received many distinctions including Young Achiever of the Year, finalist for EY Australia’s Entrepreneur of the Year and The CEO Magazine’s Executive of the Year; AFR’s Young Rich List; Professional Services Executive of the Year and three-time honouree as Maverick of the Year at the International Business Awards.

Through her wealth of philanthropy experience, Anita understands the challenges of charitable giving and brings a delivers the right outcomes with her stakeholder relationships. Anita is a passionate advocate for humanitarian projects and believes that everyone has something of value in making our country and our world a fairer, kinder and better place. Since November 2017, Anita has led the Australian arm of one of the world's largest and most successful philanthropic giving circles that focuses on supporting women and children through humanitarian projects. As Chair of the Society of Women Leaders, she mobilises the powerful collective giving of women who are members of the giving circle and holds a leadership role in the global Tiffany Circle, an arm of the Red Cross. With her experience in large organisation structures, Anita manages LK Group's overall engagement with charitable organisations in the role of Philanthropy & Corporate Social Responsibility Director. Working across all businesses in the LK Group, Anita develops and executes philanthropic strategies, conducts not-for-profit organisation reviews, tracks charitable engagement and manages relationships with the charitable sector.

With significant experience within property development and investment, John is an industry-leading visionary. For over 30 years, John has as an owner or partner in his own business been instrumental in numerous commercial and mixed-use property developments and investments. Whilst also providing key consultation on over a billion-dollar investment and development opportunities. He has also been able to build a desired network of agents, consultants and contacts that encompasses all aspects of the property sector. John has comprehensive experience in growing businesses through acquisition, portfolio management, strategy management, contract negotiations, property development, sales and marketing. As Director of Property of the LK Group, he will utilise his prestige to drive growth. Formerly John held a committee position for Working Heritage, appointed by The Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change under the Crown Land (Reserves) act. 1978.

Jeremy first joined the LK Group in June 2019 as a Legal Executive, before becoming Group General Counsel of the LK Group. Jeremy is an experienced senior lawyer with a breadth of experience across private legal practice, ASX listed companies and private companies, in multiple disciplines, including corporate governance and advisory, commercial law, telecommunications, media and technology, banking and finance, M&A, property and intellectual property. Prior to joining LK Group, Jeremy held senior legal roles at Telstra and Vocus, at which he provided strategic and timely advice to members of the Board and the Executive Team. Jeremy holds a Bachelor of Laws (Honours), a Bachelor of Commerce (Finance) and a Postgraduate Diploma in Applied Corporate Governance from the Governance Institute of Australia. In addition to his legal qualifications, Jeremy is a Chartered Secretary, having completed his postgraduate qualifications in 2013. Jeremy is an Associate of the Governance Institute of Australia, an Associate Member of the Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators (London) and a member of the Association of Corporate Counsel Australia.

Nick has more than 16 years’ experience in property, regeneration and development both internationally and in Australia. Nick has worked across the public and private sectors on urban regeneration, brownfield and greenfield sites and is experienced in delivering complex and high quality developments. He brings tried and tested strength in integrating project teams, driving communication and fostering collaborative cultures on tough projects. His comprehensive management style, successful track record and experience working in senior roles as a project manager for a major Australian Tier 1 builder and as a development manager for both private and publicly listed developers makes him the ideal primary point of contact for consultants, the project team and subcontractors delivering projects for LK Property Group.

Nicholas manages the LK Group’s private equity investment arm, Queens Lane Capital. He has substantial experience in a diverse range of areas including financial markets, private equity, SME business and the law. Most recently, Nicholas led Queens Lane Capital’s purchase of Signorino Tile Gallery, Multiform and Woodcut to form Australia’s leading integrated stone and tile supplier and fabricator. Prior to joining the LK Group, Nicholas ran the Commonwealth Bank’s Financial Sponsor Coverage business within Global Markets based in Sydney. He is also a co-founder and director of a successful Melbourne-based packaging and PPE importing and distribution business. During his time living in London, Nicholas worked for Risk Capital Partners, a mid-market private equity firm which invests in numerous sectors including leisure, retail, media, healthcare and IT services. Prior to that, he worked in financial markets structuring derivative transactions across FX, interest rates and commodities. He has also been admitted to the Supreme Court of Victoria as a practising solicitor. Nicholas has completed a combined Bachelor of Laws with Honours and Bachelor of Commerce with a Major in Finance at Deakin University. In 2013, he was awarded his MBA from the London Business School.

Shannon brings a wealth of customer service experience and strength in people management to the LK Property Group as Head of Client Services. Shannon provides end to end management of the client experience from the day a client purchases a property through to well after moving into their new home. He is proud to assist our clients in all facets of their purchase, settlement and ongoing enjoyment of their new property. This includes assisting with finance, valuations, utility connection, move in and move out, window furnishings, furniture and liaising with the builders for required touch ups. Shannon is passionate about placing the customer experience first. Prior to joining the LK Property Group Shannon worked in Learning and Organisational Development at FOXTEL, as well as management roles at Village Cinemas and NAB. Shannon’s interest in property piqued when working with a digital start-up under the Ray White Group, making LK Group the ideal next step. Since joining the business in January, 2016 Shannon has managed the settlement of over 400 properties for the LK Property Group and now focuses on the landmark Capitol Grand South Yarra that incorporates more than 370 properties and 16 retail spaces with a highly successful settlement rate.

Nikola loves building and turning around businesses, and has done this for the last 16 years throughout North America, Asia-Pacific and Europe. His passion lays in the areas of strategic management, organisational leadership and change management. Nikola is the Director of LK Hospitality, our company founded on family values, a community focus and customer-first outlook. LK Hospitality is committed to delivering world-class service in all of our establishments with our team of industry experts. Our chefs work closely with the best Australian producers and growers, to bring our guests the finest quality produce we can source. Before switching to the private sector, Nikola spent his entire career working in a number of leadership roles for Tupperware Brands Corporation.

Christian, and indeed Amity, is recognised as an industry leader in apartment sales, having achieved the highest average square meterage rate sold in a high rise building in Melbourne. A licensed Estate Agent, Auctioneer, and the Director of Amity Property Group, Christian Numa’s reputation is built on honesty, transparency, integrity and ethics. Starting his career in real estate at the age of 19, Christian has gained experience from the ground up. Now, As the Director of Amity Property Group, he is an expert in development sales with an in-depth understanding and passion for apartment buildings and project developments. After meeting with LK Group Chairman Larry Kestelman, Amity Property Group was born. Eight years later, Christian leads a team of 18 who he has helped grow from ‘green’ to successful agents—which brings immense satisfaction. Christian, and indeed Amity, is recognised as an industry leader in apartment sales, having achieved the highest average square meterage rate sold in a high rise building in Melbourne. With a thirst for knowledge, Christian is an avid reader and active listener who brings an affirmative and energetic approach to customer relations. He greatly invests in his commitment to building and maintaining outstanding relationships. His exceptional communication skills are matched by his intimate knowledge of the residential and commercial marketplace to help deliver results for his clients. https://www.amity.com.au/ Christian also prides himself on solving problems and makes it his mission to find the sweet spot between buyer and vendor In his spare time, he only enjoys doing two things: spending quality family time with his wife and son, or playing a few rounds of golf. Under Christian’s leadership, Amity’s agency knowledge stretches from sales, property management, owners corporation, finance, through to project marketing services for residential and commercial developments. Amity Property Group’s philosophy is simple; “We care for your investment as if it is ours”.