Meet The Team
Managing Director
Chris Samaras
Just shy of 20 years’ experience within the steel industry, Chris holds formal qualifications in Construction Management and Economics, while also holding a Graduate Certificate in Business Administration and Certificate IV in WHS.
As Managing Director, Chris is responsible for over-seeing Samaras’ overall performance and providing strategic guidance to ensure long-term goals are achieved. Chris has led the Samaras Group through various property development project and also takes the lead in the groups vast real estate holdings and generating additional opportunities by leveraging his existing networks. Chris sits on a number of commercial and philanthropic boards including Master Builders SA and the Make a Difference foundation.
Director / WHS&E
George Samaras
With more than 31 years in the commercial construction industry, George brings extensive expertise and leadership to his role. His journey began in 1992 as a structural steel detail drafter, progressing to project management in South Australia by 1993. Recognizing the need for a specialized crane service, George founded Samaras Cranes and Machinery Relocation Division, which quickly became South Australia’s leading crane hire company, boasting a fleet of over 30 cranes for over a decade.
Since 2010, George has spearheaded the company’s Work, Health, Safety, and Environmental Management systems, achieving ISO 45001 and ISO 14001 certifications—making the company a pioneer in its sector.
George’s commitment to excellence extends to his involvement on multiple commercial boards, where he provides strategic direction. His passion for fostering a positive company culture is at the heart of his approach, supporting a work environment that empowers both individual and team success.
Director | New Business & Strategy
Kosta Koutsonas
Kosta is a well-rounded Executive with formal qualifications in civil & structural engineering, a Masters of Business Administration and is a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.
He has a cross-range of experience in sales, operational management, marketing, and national/international business development. Kosta’s career has taken him to over 40 countries where he has been able to form long lasting commercial and strategic relationships with governments and some of the world’s largest organisations. Kosta’s lead in the generation of the Groups’ strategic plan has led to significant growth and resilience of the Samaras brand nationally. He also utilises his corporate experience gained in his board positions with various organisations and philanthropic associations.
General Manager
Daniel Forgione
Daniel has been with Samaras since 2008 and is currently the General Manager responsible for day to day operations of the projects and production divisions.
Further to this, Daniel has formal qualifications in mechanical engineering, has vast experience in construction management, and is currently undertaking an MBA degree.
Development Director
Russell Biar
Russell commenced with Samaras as a Project Manager in 2004 and has since been promoted to Development Director for Samaras Construction & Developments. Russell’s key role involves project director and key stakeholder management, while overseeing multiple projects.
Russell has formal qualifications in construction management achieved at the University of South Australia.