Damien Ryan
Senior Property Advisor
Damien Ryan is a highly regarded business and sporting professional whose career has been defined by discipline, performance, relationships, and a deep connection to the Bayside community. A proud father of three and long-time Bayside resident, Damien brings a broad and worldly perspective to his role as Senior Property Advisor with Melbourne Sotheby's International Realty – Bayside.
Damien’s professional journey began at the Australian Institute of Sport, where he developed the foundations for an accomplished international basketball career spanning more than 15 years. Recognised early as the NBL Rookie of the Year, Damien competed at the highest levels of professional basketball both in Australia’s National Basketball League and internationally, including a decade playing in Italy’s prestigious Lega Basket Serie A. He also had the honour of representing Australia as a member of the Australian Boomers national team.
His elite sporting background instilled the qualities that naturally translate into high-performing real estate advisory — resilience, professionalism, strategic thinking, accountability, and the ability to build trusted relationships under pressure. Damien’s extensive network, developed through decades in professional sport and business, together with his approachable nature and strong community ties, position him uniquely within the Bayside property market.
Following his professional basketball career, Damien successfully transitioned into business leadership and relationship management roles across the sports, apparel, and commercial sectors. He spent over a decade as Founder and Managing Director of Hoop Smart Australia, building a respected basketball development business focused on coaching, mentoring, and community engagement. He has also held senior commercial roles including National Relationship Manager with Diamond Sports Australia and Sales Specialist with Belgravia Sports Apparel – New Balance.
Alongside his corporate and sporting achievements, Damien has cultivated more than a decade of experience in property investment and development, further strengthening his understanding of the property landscape from both an owner and investor perspective.
Passionate about property, people, and the Bayside lifestyle, Damien is excited to bring his experience, energy, and relationship-driven approach to Melbourne Sotheby’s International Realty – Bayside, where he is committed to delivering trusted advice and exceptional outcomes for his clients.