SVP/Regional Manager
Schnitzer Properties
Type of Business: Commercial Real Estate
Development and Operations Based: Las Vegas, San Diego and Salt Lake City
Hails from: Teaneck, NJ
“Luck is the sense to recognize an opportunity and the ability to take advantage of it. Everyone has bad breaks, but everyone also has opportunities. The person who can smile at his breaks and grab his chances gets on.”
—Samuel Goldwyn
What is your professional background?
I met a girl named Tonya who was an office broker with CBRE. She introduced me to her managing director, six months later I was hired as an industrial broker. Four years later I was married to that girl.
What career advice would you give to someone just starting in your industry?
It takes a lifetime to build your reputation but only moments to damage it. Focus on how you comport yourself because you never know when you are being evaluated.
What would be the title of your autobiography?
“The Seeker”
What workplace project are you looking forward to?
Creating a new culture of accountability and efficiency in San Diego that elevates the region to heights not seen before.
Editor’s Note: In addition to leading Schnitzer in the Las Vegas and Salt Lake City markets, Gottesman was recently tapped to lead the San Diego market.
What is an assumption people make about you that is wrong?
I may appear rigid. However, this is more nuanced than it may appear, as I am careful to take in as much information as possible. But when it is time to decide, I am confident and strong in the direction that we choose.
What do you hope future generations can learn from your professional journey?
It’s not about where you start, it’s about where you go. If you’re ethical, strong and have an inner belief and dogged determination then it does not matter what those that doubt you think. As a matter of fact, you can use those that doubt you as fuel.
What is the best moment of your career?
Though it was a difficult time, the pandemic provided a career opportunity of a lifetime. I truly found my voice as a leader as we navigated our way through the many challenges and then opportunities that this disruptive landscape presented.
