Tamara Gross, the Director of Retail at Belle Property Commercial, has been a driving force in retail leasing and sales for over 20 years. Her extensive experience, combined with a platform she has created to empower women in business and property, paints a compelling picture of dedication and innovation.

COMMO recently spoke with Tamara Gross, the Director of Retail at Belle Property Commercial.

With a deep-seated interest in retail, particularly fashion, Ms Gross’s passion was ignited early on. Starting with part-time jobs at Sportsgirl and Portmans after finishing school, Ms Gross spent her earnings as swiftly as she made them, completely immersed in the retail world. 

Although her career initially veered towards marketing and events management, she soon found her true calling in real estate. Unlike many women who gravitate towards residential sales and leasing, Ms Gross was captivated by the male-dominated commercial sector.

Today, as the Director of Retail at Belle Property Commercial, Ms Gross boasts an impressive career with over 200 commercial and retail leases under her belt. Her enthusiasm for retail remains undiminished as she continues to explore shopping strips across Melbourne, interstate, and overseas. Her keen eye for trends, opportunities, and the essential ‘perfect mix’ of successful retail precincts highlights her expertise and dedication to the field.

"Success in retail leasing hinges on several key factors," Ms Gross says. "You need to have good market knowledge, understand your client's brief and needs, be creative with your advice and solutions, tell people what you are doing and keep in touch with clients, and add value at every opportunity."

A notable example of her impact can be seen on High Street, Armadale. This vibrant strip, brimming with prominent fashion brands, cafes, service retail, and allied health, has become one of Melbourne’s most desirable retail locations. Her involvement in numerous leasing transactions on High Street includes the recent leasing of 1071 High Street to the fashion icon Sener Besim, further cementing her status as a retail specialist in Stonnington.

Tenants are increasingly opting for short-term leases to test the waters, and Ms Gross advocates for landlords to accommodate these terms rather than face prolonged vacancies. 

Despite these hurdles, Belle Property Commercial has successfully leased 16 retail properties in Stonnington in the past six months, encompassing a mix of fashion retail, cafes, and service retail.

Ms Gross’s proactive approach and relentless "hustle" distinguish her in the industry. By maintaining a robust database of tenants and regularly communicating with them, she transforms vacancies into opportunities. Her philosophy is clear: rather than viewing properties as vacant, she sees them as potential hubs for thriving businesses.

Ms Gross’s contributions have not only enhanced the retail landscape in Stonnington but also inspired a new generation of women in business and property.

In addition to her professional achievements, Ms Gross is also a sought-after inspirational speaker. She delivers high-quality seminars to businesses and leaders from various industries, including property and law, with a special emphasis on building your network and the importance of staying connected.

Belle Property team - second from right Tamara Gross, Director of Retail at Belle Property Commercial.

L to R: Charles Carty, Daniel Roccisano, Georgia Goodings, Tamara Gross and Nick Mavrodoglos.