with Randy Ferrari
My career in the landscaping industry began with a complete stroke of luck! It is truly all about who you know. After college, I was working on an MBA and in another industry. A friend of mine, who was in the Green Industry, introduced me to what he had to offer and the rest, as they say, is history.
In the beginning, I was lucky to work for and with quality individuals who mentored me in the landscape industry, and in business. Being surrounded with the right people is invaluable and, for me, was a big part of why I have stayed as long as I have. Now as President & COO of Lawn Management Company, I have the opportunity to be that mentor to the people in our company that are in varying stages of their careers. This is what keeps me going, day to day, at this point of my career. Getting to watch our individual team members grow and learn and thrive in their jobs with LMC, and their lives, is so fulfilling. I enjoy getting to play a part in that growth and offer my knowledge and experience to help them along the way.
When we think of executives as leaders, we typically consider them inspiring visionaries or savvy businesspeople. We imagine them hidden away in their offices or bouncing from important meeting to important meeting. We rarely label these individuals the way we do other workplace leaders: as highly engaged, coaching-style mentors. As a leader in our business, I believe it is my responsibility to be a resource of knowledge and encouragement. There is both the green thumb side of the landscaping industry and the business side of the industry. If a team member is an expert at one side of but not the other, I want to help them grow their abilities to master both. This investment in our people has paid off for me and our company, repeatedly.
The landscaping industry attracts some impressive individuals and I love getting to be a part of that community. After almost 40 years in the industry, there are many things that keep me engaged and excited, but if I had to pick one factor, it would be the people that I get to work with both in our company, and with peers in different markets. Over the years, I have had the pleasure and privilege of being a part of peer groups with other industry professionals across the country. Being involved in groups like this has solidified my opinion that the green industry really is composed of exceptionally bright people. I have learned so much by comparing notes with industry leaders from all over the country. This vast network of great people is another thing that keeps me coming back. The community in which you work, day in and day out, makes all the difference in the enjoyment of your career and I am lucky enough to be surrounded by the best.
The best part is the landscaping industry is thriving and the future holds exciting opportunities for growth. I am grateful to be a part of that path with LMC and excited to see how we will rise to the challenges to come.
