As Schill Grounds Management continued its rapid growth, the company announced the addition of Jacob Szeliga as Vice President of Mergers & Acquisitions, reinforcing its commitment to thoughtful expansion through strategic partnerships. The appointment highlighted Schill’s continued momentum as one of the most active acquirers in the commercial landscaping industry.
Jacob joined the organization with nearly a decade of experience in corporate development, private equity, and transaction execution. Prior to Schill, he served as Senior Director of M&A at Mariani Premier Group, where he supported strategic growth initiatives and helped scale one of the nation’s leading landscape platforms. He also previously worked with Akoya Capital, gaining experience across sourcing, underwriting, acquisitions, and portfolio management. Throughout his career, Jacob contributed to more than 30 acquisitions.
Why This Hire Matters
Growth through acquisition requires more than capital. It requires discipline, relationship-building, and a long-term mindset. Jacob’s role was designed to lead prospect development, due diligence, transaction execution, and post-close integration support, helping ensure future partnerships create value for both incoming companies and the broader organization.
His addition also reinforced a philosophy Schill has consistently emphasized: acquisitions should feel like partnerships, not transactions. That approach has helped attract high-quality owner-operators looking to preserve legacy, create opportunity for employees, and gain the benefits of scale.
Supporting the Next Chapter of Growth
At the time of the announcement, Schill had completed 19 acquisitions while continuing to grow organically, expanding to more than 34 branches across the Midwest, Mid-Atlantic, and Southwestern Ontario. Bringing in dedicated M&A leadership signaled the company’s intent to continue growing with purpose.
Today, that same growth philosophy continues through Landscape Collective, where strong local brands remain locally led while benefiting from shared systems, resources, and strategic support.
Key Takeaways
- Strategic growth requires dedicated leadership and disciplined execution
- Successful acquisitions are built on relationships and trust
- Integration matters just as much as the transaction itself
- Strong partnerships can preserve legacy while creating new opportunity
- Long-term growth is strongest when values remain at the centre
Looking Ahead
Jacob’s appointment represented more than a leadership hire. It reflected an organization investing in the people and structure needed to continue building one of the most respected platforms in commercial landscaping.
Read Full Article
