Who We Are

Gary brings more than 25 years of experience across acquisitions, development, and asset management as the third-generation leader of the Cohen family real estate business. Over the past two decades, he led Willco Residential, overseeing the development of more than 700 residential units throughout Washington, DC. Gary recently pioneered Washington, DC’s first major office-to-residential conversion, transforming the former Peace Corps headquarters into 163 Class A apartment residences with 8,000 square feet of street-level retail. The project positioned Willco at the forefront of adaptive reuse in the District and demonstrated a forward-thinking strategy for repositioning obsolete office assets into high-performing mixed-use residential communities.

As Chairman & President, Gary works closely with the CEO to establish management policy and guide Willco’s strategic direction, with a focus on acquisitions, development, and long-term portfolio growth.

Prior to leading Willco Residential, Gary held positions at Axent Realty in Maryland and Newmark Companies in New York City, where he was involved in property management, leasing, and construction operations.

Gary has been active in Washington, DC’s charter school community, serving on the Board of KIPP DC and as the founding Board Chair of Inspired Teaching Public Charter School. He earned a B.S. from Syracuse University and an M.A. from Pace University in New York. He is a member of the Economic Club of Washington, DC and the Federal City Council.