New President At The Helm At Sotheby’s Canada

Sotheby’s International Realty Canada has appointed Mustafa Abbasi as president, naming a technology-focused executive to lead the luxury brokerage’s next phase of growth.

Previously serving as founding president of Zolo, Abbasi built a technology-driven brokerage operating across Canada. Following Zolo’s sale to Questrade Financial Group, he served as president and CEO of Zolo Ventures — overseeing platform development and operational strategy.

As president of Sotheby’s, Abbasi will oversee strategic growth efforts, including marketing and technology initiatives and recruitment of agents.

“Sotheby’s International Realty Canada represents one of the most respected names in global real estate,” he said. “What drew me to [them] was clear: an iconic brand with a genuine commitment to the independent advisors across Canada who have chosen to build their businesses here and to the clients they serve. That kind of alignment is rare.

“Having spent my career building companies at the intersection of real estate and fintech, I’ve seen what’s possible when talented entrepreneurs are supported by the right platform, tools and leadership. I’m excited to bring that perspective here to foster a culture of excellence and innovation and to continue raising the bar for what our advisors and their clients can expect from us.”

Abbasi succeeds Effi Barak, who has served as interim president since April 2025. The company said Barak will step down following the completion of the leadership transition.

Tara Brown — CEO of Peerage Realty Partners — said Abbasi’s background aligns with the brokerage’s direction.

“Mustafa’s distinctive blend of entrepreneurial and corporate real estate leadership, deep digital expertise and Canadian market insight uniquely positions Sotheby’s International Realty Canada to meet the evolving expectations of clients and advisors, while strengthening our leadership in Canada’s luxury real estate market now and in the future,” Brown said.