Econsult Solutions, Inc. (ESI) announces that effective May 15, 2026, and as part of ESI’s long-range succession plan, Lee Huang will conclude his tenure as a principal after 20 years with the firm. This milestone reflects a deliberate, multi-year process to strengthen leadership continuity and expand next-generation ownership—an approach that remains rare among closely held professional services firms.
Over the past several years, ESI has intentionally transitioned executive responsibilities, formalized continuity in firm leadership, and broadened ownership participation to ensure long-term stability. While Huang previously stepped back from day-to-day executive leadership in 2024, this announcement marks the final step in a planned succession process that has positioned the firm for its next chapter—providing clients and partners with consistent leadership, clear decision-making, and uninterrupted delivery of service. Succession has included elevating next-generation principals into expanded leadership authority, including Ethan Conner-Ross, Rebecca Garvin DeJoseph, Wendy Gabriele, and Gina Lavery, who have assumed increasing responsibility for the firm’s direction and voice.
Huang joined the firm in 2006 (when it was known as Econsult Corporation) and has held a range of leadership roles, including director, vice president, principal, and co-president. He also led the firm’s Universities and Hospitals practice and ultimately helped guide the organization through a succession process that strengthens its foundation for the future. In addition to his work at ESI, he has remained deeply engaged in civic leadership, including serving on the boards of the Philadelphia Industrial Development Corporation (PIDC), the Philadelphia Board of Education, the University of Pennsylvania Stuart Weitzman School of Design, and the Greater Philadelphia YMCA.
“I’m proud of what we’ve built at ESI, and especially proud that we’ve approached leadership and ownership transition thoughtfully and deliberately,” said Huang. “I’m keeping an open mind about what’s next for me. Above all, I’m excited about the firm’s future, and I look forward to supporting ESI’s work and staying in touch with the many people I’ve had the privilege to meet over the years.”
“This is the result of a plan long in the making,” said Peter Angelides, President & Principal of ESI. “Lee helped steward a transition process that positions ESI for the future—strengthening continuity, elevating the next generation of leadership, and ensuring we remain a trusted partner to our clients. We’re grateful for his leadership and for the steady foundation he helped put in place.”
“ESI is grateful to Lee for the leadership he provided as President and during a thoughtful, multi-year succession process.” said Gina Lavery, Executive Vice President & Principal. “His stewardship helped strengthen the firm’s continuity and position ESI for what’s next. We’re focused on building on that foundation for our clients and communities.”
About Econsult Solutions, Inc.
Econsult Solutions, Inc. is a boutique consultancy providing analysis and insights at the intersection of economics, planning, and public policy. ESI has deep expertise in urban economics and the interrelated issues of equitable economic development, human capital, infrastructure, and land use in cities and metropolitan regions. The firm’s interdisciplinary team of economists, planners, and policy experts bring a unique combination of quantitative skills and expertise to deliver rigorous analysis and solutions. Clients include government and quasi-government organizations, private sector businesses, economic development agencies, and research organizations, with much of the firm’s work occurring at the intersection of the public and private sector.