Redefining Legacy and Leadership: Insights from Eugene Gershman of GIS Companies

In this episode of the Growing Up B2B Podcast, host Ed Delia sits down with Eugene Gershman, CEO of GIS Companies, to explore the realities of growing up in a family construction business, navigating generational transitions, and leading a company through reinvention. Eugene shares how GIS evolved from a hands-on construction firm into a sophisticated development company, offering candid lessons in legacy, leadership, and long-term strategic thinking—insights that speak directly to family business owners and B2B leaders shaping the next era of growth.

Building a Modern Family Enterprise Through Reinvention and Purpose

Eugene begins by reflecting on his early reluctance to join the family construction business after witnessing the toll it took on his father—from long hours to the physical and emotional strain. That early exposure, however, became the foundation that later helped him redefine what leadership and legacy could look like. He shares how “being 100% committed” became a central principle, guiding him as he developed skills in finance and technology before eventually returning to the business with renewed perspective.

A pivotal point in GIS’s history was the shift from construction to development—a strategic pivot driven by market realities and resource constraints. Eugene explains that while the construction division gave him invaluable understanding of materials, vendors, and process, it wasn’t sustainable long-term due to labor shortages and operational demands. By leaning into development, GIS stayed within its core industry while moving into a higher-impact, scalable business model. This experience taught Eugene the importance of staying in your channel but being willing to evolve when the industry shifts.

Throughout the episode, Eugene emphasizes the role of communication, marketing, and multi-generational decision-making in the family business environment. He explains how his perspective as a younger leader brought needed modernization—from brand building to improved operations—while still honoring what the previous generation built. Eugene also highlights the importance of spending time in the field, learning each part of the business firsthand, and earning credibility by doing the work. For him, legacy is not only about financial success but also about contributing to community impact and building with purpose.

About Eugene Gershman

Eugene Gershman is the CEO of GIS Companies, where he leads real estate development projects with a focus on thoughtful design, community value, and long-term sustainability. With experience spanning construction, finance, and technology, Eugene brings a multidimensional approach to leadership in a modern family business.

About GIS Companies

GIS Companies is a diversified real estate development firm specializing in residential and mixed-use projects. Known for its commitment to quality, creativity, and long-term community impact, GIS builds with purpose—combining thoughtful design, operational expertise, and a vision for generational value.

Links Mentioned in This Episode

• Eugene Gershman LinkedIn

• GIS Companies Website

Key Episode Highlights

• Why next-generation leaders must fully commit—and learn the business from the ground up

• How GIS successfully pivoted from construction to real estate development

• The underestimated role of marketing and sales in family-run industries

• Strategies for navigating family dynamics, boundaries, and generational expectations

• Lessons from surviving economic cycles and avoiding over-leverage

• Building with purpose to create long-term community impact

Conclusion

The conversation between Ed Delia and Eugene Gershman offers a powerful look at what it means to reinvent a family business without losing sight of its roots. Eugene’s journey—from skepticism to stewardship—illustrates how next-generation leaders can honor a legacy while building a business that reflects their own values, strengths, and vision for the future.

Explore Ed Delia’s website to learn more about leadership strategies for family businesses and B2B growth. If you’re a B2B leader with insights to share, apply to be a guest on the Growing Up B2B Podcast here.