Tony Sesto has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of Buxton Real Estate, bringing more than 20 years of leadership experience from customer-focused brands including BMW, Honda and Marshall White.
Tony was offered a path into real estate early in his career but chose marketing instead. More than two decades later, he steps into the CEO role at the Victorian real estate group.
His approach to leadership has been shaped by a single conversation from his time in the automotive industry.
“I’ve spent a fortune with BMW over my lifetime, but you wouldn’t even know who I am,” he recalls.
“That stayed with me. It made me realise how easily businesses can lose sight of the individual. From that day on, I made it my mission to ensure every customer feels seen, valued and understood,” he said.
Tony said it was conversations with Mark Earle, Holly Longmuir and Buxton’s Board, rather than growth projections or business metrics, that drew him to the business.
“You don’t earn the trust of Victorian communities for 165 years without doing something right,” Tony said.
“What stood out to me wasn’t just the history – it was the culture. There is a genuine care for people here, whether that’s clients, colleagues or the communities Buxton has been part of for generations. That felt incredibly special.”
Tony said raising his daughter had taught him patience, active listening and empathy, lessons that continue to shape how he leads.
“Earlier in my career, I thought leadership was about having all the answers and holding authority,” he said.
“But life, parenthood and experience teach you to slow down. The best leaders listen first, ask better questions and create an environment where people can achieve more than they thought possible.”
On the industry’s direction, Tony said technology would keep changing how the property sector operates, but not what matters most to clients.
“Technology can absolutely make us more efficient, but it can’t replace trust, empathy or the judgement that comes with experience,” he said.
“Buying, selling, or leasing a home is one of the biggest moments in someone’s life. It’s emotional, deeply personal and rarely straightforward. People will always value having someone they trust by their side through that journey.”
Tony said he was proud to join a business that has played an important role in the lives of Victorian families, and that his focus now was on supporting Buxton’s people, strengthening the relationships within its communities, and ensuring the business remains one people trust for generations to come.