Lyons, CO — October 10, 2025 — Buckhead Landscape and Design owner Stuart Ward has been named the 2025 Landscape Leader of the Year, following a live online competition hosted by Jack Jostes, CEO of Ramblin Jackson and host of The Landscaper’s Guide to Modern Sales & Marketing podcast. Broadcast live from the Ramblin Jackson Video Studio in Lyons, Colorado, the annual Landscape Leader of the Year livestream featured three top landscape business owners presenting their most valuable “What’s Working Now” strategies before a live audience who voted for the winner.
Ward’s presentation, “Defining and Developing an Effective Sales Process,” outlined the framework his Atlanta-based company used to create a simple, repeatable system that increased sales close rates, improved accountability, and enabled him to expand his team as he prepares to transition ownership of the business to his son at the end of the year.
“A clear, repeatable sales process gives you the freedom to grow with confidence,” said Ward. “It’s been incredible to see how our team has stepped up and how much smoother our projects run now that everyone follows the same structure.”
As the 2025 winner, Ward received the coveted Landscape Leader of the Year Championship Belt and a $500 donation to the Humane Society, his nonprofit of choice.
“Stuart represents exactly what leadership in the green industry looks like—clarity, process, and a commitment to his people,” said event host Jack Jostes. “His story shows what’s possible when landscape business owners take control of their sales systems instead of letting sales control them.”
The event also featured two other outstanding finalists: Michael Fisher – Dutchies Stoneworks & Outdoor Living: “From Price-Shoppers to Premium Clients: How a High-Converting Website Transformed Our Sales.” Fisher demonstrated how refining his company’s website filtered out unqualified leads and generated more high-value outdoor living projects.
Dominick DePadre – Tri Valley Landscaping: “Building a Culture That Fuels Growth.” DePadre shared how a strong, family-driven company culture helped improve retention, morale, and long-term growth.
Each finalist attended the Landscape Leader Winner’s Week in Colorado, where they participated in mastermind sessions, a business strategy day, and professional video shoots with the Landscaper’s Guide production team.
The Landscape Leader of the Year competition is produced by The Landscaper’s Guide, the education and events division of Ramblin Jackson—the snow and landscape marketing agency serving more than 300 companies nationwide. Led by author, podcast host, and CEO Jack Jostes, Ramblin Jackson helps landscape and snow contractors grow through modern sales and marketing systems that attract qualified leads and drive lasting profitability.
To learn more about Ramblin Jackson’s upcoming events, visit landscapersguide.com/events.
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