Mariani Profiles
Discover the stories behind the people who are making Mariani better ever day.
Discover the stories behind the people who are making Mariani better ever day.
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Time at Mariani:
30-some years
What was your first job here:
“I started as the accounting manager, then moved in and started helping Frank. I became his executive assistant. I helped whenever the admin team needed a supervisor, on and off. A couple of years ago, I became the front office administrator and was glad to stay with a company I love.”
Describe your job:
“It encompasses a lot of different things. I answer the phone, distribute mail and deliveries, and answer a lot of questions for people throughout the company because of what I know. I am old school; if there is a job to be done, you do it.”
Favorite thing about your job:
“The diversity of things to do. While I might plan to do certain things in a day, things come up, and I do them. I love the flexibility of it all. I don’t just say this; I’ve lived it: this is a unique company. The people we work with and for are top-notch, so that’s fun, too.”
Hobbies or interests outside of work:
“As a workaholic, I’ve never had a lot of time for things like that, but when I can, I like to go to plays, musicals, and art fairs. I also spend a good deal of time working at my church doing different things there.”
What hopes do you have for the future of women in our industry and in leadership roles?
“I have seen this industry, not just this company, but it was male-dominated. Now, there are so many women taking part in leadership roles. The future is bright for women and the industry as a whole. It’s refreshing to see that much growth over the 30-something years I’ve been here.”
Time at Mariani:
4 years
What I do: I review and enter order confirmations for perennials and woody.
Favorite thing:
The people I work with have helped me in many ways, both at work and out.
What I love:
I love spending time with my daughters, making crafts. I have a daughter who is medically complex, so my hobbies right now consist of educating myself more to care for her the best I can.
My Thoughts:
Advice I would give to young women starting in this industry- I would say it could be one of the best decisions they make, at least for me it was. I have learned so much and continue learning. It has opened whole new interests for me.
Time at Mariani:
4 years
Describe your job:
My role focuses on designing and managing enhancement projects for our maintenance clients. Proposing creative and functional upgrades. I ensure that each space aligns with the client’s vision and needs.
Favorite thing about your job:
It’s the perfect blend of creativity, strategy, and nature. Each project presents a new challenge, and I get to bring ideas to life, solve problems, and witness a space transform into something even greater, not just in terms of visual design but also in the deeper meaning it holds for our clients.
Hobbies or interests outside of work:
I enjoy walking in nature, photography, playing volleyball, and spending quality time with my family and loved ones. I’m also passionate about personal growth and constantly seek to learn.
As we celebrate Women’s History Month, who are some women who have inspired you professionally or personally?
I deeply admire the women who have paved the way in industries, proving that talent and passion know no gender. On a personal level, my mom and the women in my family have been my greatest inspiration. They taught me resilience and how to move forward with love, honesty, responsibility, and determination. Professionally, I admire women who chase their dreams, overcome obstacles, and keep pushing forward with perseverance, even in the face of fear.
What advice would you give to young women entering the workforce or starting in our company?
I’d encourage young women to trust in themselves and their ability to learn. Every challenge is an opportunity for growth. Surround yourself with inspiring people; don’t be afraid to ask questions or share new ideas. Confidence, preparation, and authenticity will open many doors for you.
Where I started:
Thirteen years ago, I started here as a Crew Leader-in-Training. I had to prove myself by working as hard or harder than everyone else. I’ve done installations waist-deep in swamps. I’ve been in rain so heavy you couldn’t see your hand in front of your face. I had to prove I could do the work.
Where I am now:
Today, I’m a Crew Leader for Mariani’s Enhancement Department. So, I get to train the newcomers on that same Enhancement team. Whether it’s properly positioning trees to the correct depth and facing, showing exactly how to plant a flower bed, or demonstrating how to apply the different varieties of mulch we use, I pass that knowledge along. And there are other basic things I teach by example. Safety—always job one. Punctuality—you have to be on time. And always making sure the client is happy in the end.
What makes me happy:
I love what I do. I take pride in my work and in doing the job right. I love seeing the results of our work and knowing that we’ve made our clients happy. That makes me happy.
My philosophy on Black History Month:
Our forefathers fought hard for equality to make things better. Are they? In some aspects, yes, they are. But it’s all how you look at life—you’re going to have ups, you’re going to have downs. You have to bump and grind and keep on moving through it. That’s what’s going to make you stronger. All of Martin Luther King’s marches and protests were non-violent. I try to live by the path he tried to make for us. Try to live honestly, respectfully, and do unto others as they do unto me. Turn the other cheek.
Favorite things:
Being a part of this team, where we’re at a different job site every day. I’ll say to the younger guys, “Come on, man—don’t let 65 outdo 25!” I have never-ending energy–getting out there doing the physical work—that’s what keeps me young.
Today, we spotlight Dale M., a proud veteran on our team, as we honor and thank all veterans for their service and sacrifice.
Department:
Maintenance
Time at Mariani:
2 years.
Describe your job:
Satisfaction, communication, and sales.
Favorite thing about your job:
Watching the fantastic work that our crews do and the satisfaction it brings to my clients
Hobbies or interests outside of work: Sports, sports, and more sports
Which military branch did you serve in, and can you briefly overview your role during your service?
US Navy, Aviation audio/visual, flight simulators, and weapons control systems.
How has your military service influenced your views on teamwork and leadership?
All branches of the military follow a team-first attitude. Organizational skills must be used for success.
Were there specific skills you learned in the military that you find applicable to your current job role?
The ability to assess, organize, and plan was key to my success in the military and is part of my “DNA” still today.
How has your military service impacted your personal and professional growth?
It has given me the mindset that any obstacle can be overcome with teamwork, dedication, and commitment.
What do you hope people understand or remember about the significance of Veterans Day?
This day is for our current and past members who provide the freedom and lifestyle of the greatest country on the planet. Our country could not exist without their support and dedication to this cause.
Time at Mariani:
1 year, 5 months
Describe your job:
I’m the bridge between our company and our future team members. My role involves sourcing candidates, conducting interviews, and providing a positive candidate experience throughout the hiring process.
Favorite thing about your job:
The satisfaction of finding the perfect match! It is rewarding to know that you have helped someone find a fulfilling career and contributed to the success of the business.
Hobbies or interests outside of work: Recently, I have prioritized spending more time with my family and incorporating regular exercise into my daily routine. Listening to audiobooks has also been a delightful escape!
What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you personally?
Hispanic Heritage Month is a time of reflection and gratitude for me. My parents’ journey from Mexico to the United States was a testimony to their resilience and determination. Their sacrifice and hard work have provided me with countless opportunities. I am eternally grateful for their support and the opportunities they have provided.
Are there any traditions or celebrations from your culture that you particularly enjoy?
Absolutely! One of my favorite traditions is Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), a vibrant celebration dedicated to honoring our departed loved ones that takes place at the end of October and beginning of November. This celebration is a beautiful way to remember and celebrate their lives. This tradition, which we continue to follow at home, remains incredibly meaningful to me, as it’s a cherished memory from my childhood.
How has your Hispanic heritage influenced your values and perspectives in life and at work?
Growing up in a culture that emphasized resilience, adaptability, and the importance of family, I’ve carried these traits into my professional life. They’ve provided a strong foundation, enabling me to overcome challenges, embrace change, and maintain a strong sense of purpose in my work and in life.
Time at Mariani:
2 ½ years
Favorite thing about my job:
I love it when my clients reach out to me when they have any questions or concerns because it shows that they trust Mariani to find a solution.
In celebrating Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, what unique perspectives do you feel you bring to Mariani and the landscape profession? I am proud of my Chinese American heritage. I believe that AAPI representation is so important, especially nowadays, as we continue to see incidents of AAPI hate and violence in America. Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders have made significant contributions to all professions with their tenacity, dedication, and strong work ethic.
I am the first person in my family to be born in the U.S. My parents were separated for 10 years due to immigration laws – my father was in the U.S. while my mother and 2 brothers were in Hong Kong. Once my family was reunited, I was born 9 months later. 😊
What advice would you give to Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders considering a career in this field? There are so many opportunities for AAPIs in the landscaping profession. Although landscaping is not traditionally a career field that AAPIs gravitate towards, I feel that no matter what your expertise or skill level, there is a place for Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, and room to grow.
Favorite things to do away from the job:
I like to find opportunities to volunteer, especially with animal rescues. Also, yoga has been a big part of my life.
Favorite memory that happened here:
While on my way to meet my manager at a client’s property, he spotted one of our client’s dogs that had escaped from their backyard. We were able to call the dog by name and coax him back home safely. We develop a relationship with our clients’ pets.
Final thought:
Although there’s so much more growth needed in the areas of diversity and inclusiveness in the landscaping industry, I see Mariani as being a leader in bringing those changes forward.
Department:
Javier S: Maintenance Department.
Jessica S: Purchasing Department
Time at Mariani:
Javier S: Joined Rocco Fiore and Sons in 1997 before the merger.
Jessica S: 1 year and eight months.
Describe your job:
Javier S: As a production coordinator, I have great responsibility for overseeing six crews(groups) while operating maintenance services. We visit job sites regularly to ensure the quality of our work reflects our craftsmanship. I communicate with client reps/ territory admin for new updates before scheduled services. I monitor production hours and allocate material.
Jessica S: I’m part of the Hardgoods area, so I create/receive POs, assisting my department with all plant change orders for Maintenance, Enhancements, and Construction, and occasionally ordering Hardgoods material for the Production and Construction Dept. Inspect the planters for any defects/damages upon their arrival. Ensuring all invoices/statements are entered/received for Month’s end.
What was your first job here:
Javier S: I started as a Crew Member at Rocco Fiore & Sons. Over the years, I gradually started moving up positions.
Jessica S: Purchasing Assistant
Favorite thing about my job:
Javier S: My absolute favorite part of my job is seeing the satisfaction of the client’s faces with their property. At the moment, Levin Property is one of my proudest works.
Jessica S: The planters are my absolute favorite, with different colors and styles. Once in a while, Bad Bunny (wild cottontail rabbit) would hop around outside my window.
How does working in the same company impact your father-daughter relationship?
Javier S: It impacted our relationship positively by building this beautiful bond. I get to see my daughter flourish.
Jessica S: The bond I share with my father has been greatly strengthened by our experiences. His hard work and dedication have instilled in me a deep appreciation for him and all that he does. I am filled with gratitude for being his daughter; I cherish our connection more than anything in the world. Working in the landscaping industry has allowed me to see my father in a new light, deepening my admiration for him and all he has done for our family. His ability to provide for us and instill strong family values and work ethic in me make him not just a parent but also my best friend – my favorite person in the world. My BFF!!
Can you share a memorable moment or funny story from working together?
Javier S: The most memorable moments would be when my daughter surprises me with drinks or when we
have our lunch dates.
Jessica S: My father surprised me with flowers and balloons for my birthday.
If you could temporarily swap roles within the company, would you? Why or why not?
Javier S: I wouldn’t swap roles with Jessica. I enjoy the outdoor spaces and communicating with reps and clients.
Jessica S: I would love to be his mini minion. If I had an opportunity to shadow my father as a Production coordinator, I’d say yes.
Department:
Construction/Design-Build
Time at Mariani:
11 years
Describe your job:
I’m in a unique role. Some days, I’m deeply immersed in the intricacies of a drawing set, while on others, I’m meeting with clients on job sites or collaborating with fellow professionals to create tailored designs for diverse spaces.
What was your first job here:
Design Intern (later Landscape Designer, then Project Architect, now Project Director)
Favorite thing about my job:
When I put on my earbuds and delve into AutoCAD to transform ideas into reality, it’s a perfect blend of creative expression and technical expertise. Equally rewarding is the interaction with clients. Witnessing their vision materialize and knowing I contributed to its realization is job satisfaction at its best.
Favorite things to do away from my job:
Enjoy the outdoors with my family: Oliver (6), Quinn (4), and my husband Pete (41, haha). We love our tight-knit neighborhood full of fun friends and close family. Other activities close to my heart include fishing trips, beach vacations, destination concerts, preparing delicious meals, hosting parties, and side-by-side rides.
A great memory that happened here:
I’m fortunate to have had the opportunity to travel to unique places, including Lakeville, Connecticut; Bloomfield, Michigan; and Charleston, South Carolina, to name a few.
What inspired you to become a Landscape Architect?
College started with uncertainty, not knowing what direction to take. I loved art but didn’t want to be a full-time artist. I enjoyed the outdoors but didn’t want to be outside all the time. Then, a college advisor suggested Landscape Architecture, and after trying a few classes, I was hooked!
Final Thought:
I love being a part of a legacy company like Mariani, with its wonderful reputation and colleagues who make me proud every day.
Position:
Design Principal
Department:
Design Build
Time at Mariani:
37 years
Describe your job:
I design outdoor environments.
Your first job here:
Landscape Architect
Favorite thing about your job:
I continue to learn and have had the pleasure of working with an extraordinary team.
Favorite things to do away from your job:
Besides spending time in my garden, we entertain a lot and enjoy traveling, time with family, and long walks with my beloved pooch, Winnie.
What inspired you to become a Landscape Architect?
I had a wonderful neighbor, Ginny, who was an organic gardener. She had the most amazing garden, including a vegetable garden. I followed her around, learning about plants and soil. She had both a beautiful garden and a fruitful one. My Father and I also spent a lot of time in our vegetable garden. Being outside in the garden is where I am, and continue to be, most happy.
Are there Landscape Architects, leaders, or designers that you admire and look to for inspiration or guidance?
I am in awe of Frederick Law Olmstead, but Mother Nature never lets me down.
Advice you would give to someone pursuing landscape architecture:
Be curious, Landscape Architecture overlaps with Architecture, Interior Design, Engineering, Economics, Art, Horticulture, Entomology, and Soils.
Final Thought:
When you are in a space that inspires you, pay attention and try to figure out why. Living an art-filled life is a gift.
Department:
Purchasing Department
Time at Mariani:
1 Year, and 5 Months
Describe your Job:
Coordinate the logistical details of moving purchases between suppliers and different branch locations for the company.
What was your first job here:
Woody Assistant Coordinator
Favorite thing about my job:
As a member of the purchasing department, I have the privilege of working with great people to ensure materials are ready for the projects.
Thoughts about being a woman in this industry?
Being Hispanic, I grew up seeing many women in the landscape industry, with my mother being the first woman I saw in this field. Later, my aunts also joined. I have worked with many women over the years, and their involvement in this industry has shown me that, although being a woman in the landscape industry is hard, it is very much possible. My advice for women who are thinking of entering the landscape industry is, DO IT! You can do ANYTHING you can set your mind to.
Favorite thing(s) to do away from my job:
My favorite thing to do away from my job is to be with my family. I love being able to spend time and make core memories with my husband, son, and our pup.
Final thought:
Working at Mariani Landscape, you will be able to meet all sorts of great men and WOMEN who work hard to get the job done right, and I’m glad to be part of the team.
Say hello to Kristen R., or as we call her, Kristi.
Kristi has been a dynamic member of our team for over 5 ½ years now. She currently holds the vital role of Design Director of Enhancement Design in the Maintenance department, but her journey with us began as a Landscape Architect for Maintenance Enhancements.
Kristi’s remarkable expertise is in designing and selling landscape enhancements in partnership with our Client Representatives, primarily for our existing maintenance clients.
The thing she loves most about her position at Mariani? No two projects are ever the same! This keeps her work stimulating and rewarding.
When it comes to memorable moments at Mariani, Kristi fondly reflects on the incredible support she received from the company during her battle with cancer in 2022.
Away from her desk and paperwork, you’ll find Kristi unwinding in Michigan or cherishing quality time with her family and friends.
We’re honored to have Kristi as part of our team.
Stay tuned as we continue to share more profiles from our wonderful team!
Departament:
Maintenance Department
Time at Mariani:
3 Years
Describe your job:
At Mariani, I get to design high-quality seasonal displays and am responsible for specialty garden maintenance services.
What was your first job here:
Garden Specialist
Favorite thing about my job:
Designing a variety of displays and having the opportunity to work with clients who want unique services, such as Halloween Displays!
Favorite things to do away from my job:
When not working, I have a lot of personal gardening I do, including my house plants, my patio plants, and a vegetable plot in my community garden. I enjoy reading, going to the beach, and lounging around with my cat.
Great thing that happened here:
Moving from Minnesota to pursue this job, I had a hard time getting used to city life. I was welcomed into an amazing team that offered support and advice throughout my transition. I feel thankful for getting to know my coworkers, who I can gladly say have become friends.
Final thought:
Never stop looking for your dream job! I never knew I would end up in the landscape industry, but I found myself working a job during college doing weeding, mulching, and other tasks. This led me to design annual displays and find Mariani. I could not be happier working outdoors and surrounded by beautiful landscapes every day.
Department:
Design and Construction
Time at Mariani:
13 years plus
Describe your job:
Depends on the day. Most days, I try to keep everything moving forward so we can build great projects and take care of them long-term.
What was your first job here:
Director of Construction Project Management, managed the Project Management team
Favorite thing about my job:
I have two favorite things. First, the people I get to work with. Second, earning a client’s trust and then delivering the best project.
Favorite thing(s) to do away from my job:
Spending time with family and friends is most important. I like to find ways to combine that with activities like golf, bike riding, cross-country skiing, etc.
A crazy memory that happened here:
One of my favorite moments was when a client was going to have the Cardinal over for dinner with a group of friends. Frank Mariani called me and asked how the place looks. I said the place looks fine—bad mistake. Frank drove over and walked around the property. He immediately called maintenance and, within an hour, 60 people were there installing groundcover in empty beds and doing the extra cleanup. I got two phone calls, one from the client who was really delighted with the work completed. (As devout Catholics I think they knew Frank was doing his best to get through the gates and St Peter. The extra cleanup for the Cardinal could only help.) The other call was from Frank. He was very brief and basically said, “Thank God you work in construction and not maintenance.”
Any final thoughts:
I think many people know that for the last twelve years, I have dealt with Cancer, always something I have been open about. I was told it’s the best kind of Cancer to have, the one that doesn’t spread nearly as aggressively as the other types. I used to go for CT scans every three months and worry way too much about the results, not enjoying life as much as I should. So now I focus on enjoying every day as much as possible.
Positiion:
Rene R: Production Coordinator
Jesus C: Crew Leader
Time at Mariani: Rene: We both joined Rocco Fiore & Sons around the same time, 1987 and 1988. We came over to Mariani around March of 2021.
What was your first job here:
Jesus C: We both started out on a crew.
Rene R: I remember—you were a skinny little kid. (LAUGHS)
What do you do now:
Rene R: I coordinate the work between client reps and the crews, making sure everybody is working together efficiently and that every job is up to Mariani standards.
Jesus C: I direct the crew, help them accomplish the work we have. I ensure the work we do is Mariani quality.
How have things changed:
Rene R: Everything used to be on paper. Orders. Tickets. We have much better technology now that makes everything faster.
Jesus C: It was hard to learn at first. Now it’s faster and easier.
Favorite thing about my job:
Jesus C: I work in a great environment.
Rene R: We respect each other on the team.
Favorite things to do away from my job:
Jesus C: I like taking care of my house, gardening (LAUGHS), family dinners.
Rene R: I like to go on long drives with my wife, finding lakes up in Wisconsin.
Final thought:
Rene R: I like to work with this guy all these years, my friend I’ve known it feels like my whole life. We used to get together with our families. Our kids grew up together, too.
Jesus C: There are quite a few of us who have worked together here a long time. Gavino, Juan, Justino, Jose, Francisco. Francisco’s been with the company since 1973.
Rene C: We get to see each other every day.
Time at Mariani:
Five years
Describe your job:
I get to work with new clients and help to bring them along, I help our Client Representatives out when they need it, and I love to optimize what goes into a contract and bring value so our clients get the most out of what we do.
What was your first job here:
I worked on an enhancement crew.
Favorite thing about my job:
I love interacting with new people every day.
Favorite thing(s) to do away from my job:
I love hanging out in my backyard with my friends and family, making everybody comfortable, bar-b-que some chicken or ribs. And I like to enjoy a Rocky Patel cigar at the end of the day.
A great thing that happens here:
For me, I love interacting with everybody at Mariani up and down the team, from the head of production to the kid who started on a crew yesterday. I get along with all of them.
Final thought:
Get up every day, be organized, and take it as it comes. You’re going to have bad days, you’re going to have good day.
Departament:
Design Department
Describe your job:
I collaborate, design, and develop innovative solutions for our clients
wide range of outdoor spaces.
Time at Mariani:
10 years
What was your first job here:
Design makeover of a rooftop in downtown Chicago.
Favorite thing away from my job:
Spending time with family and friends.
Parting thought:
Bounce your idea off someone else; it will only get better!
Departament:
Production
Time at Mariani:
9 years
Describe your job:
In the Production Department, we assist in many different ways: material release, timesheet processing for payroll and billing, and managing the hiring process for new field staff.
What was your first job here:
I started as a temp in accounting, covering for the AR admin’s maternity leave. Then, as the company grew, an admin position opened up in Production. It was a challenge for me because it was something completely out of my comfort zone—but it’s been an awesome experience.
Favorite things about my job:
We are always busy. Every day is different. I always leave with the feeling that something was accomplished.
Favorite things to do away from my job:
I love spending time with my husband, my kids, and my family. I like cooking and also enjoy taking trips with my family.
A great thing:
Something that makes Mariani fun is the success stories that the field staff shares at the end of the day.
Final thought:
I really enjoy working at Mariani because we all pull together to reach the same goal. It feels to me like a second home.
Department:
Maintenance
Time at Mariani:
Three months, seventeen years prior to that.
Describe your job:
I get to meet with clients and see how the year has gone, see how the transition has gone for them. Sometimes it’s a good conversation, sometimes it’s a tough conversation. But it almost always ends up in a good place.
What was your first job here:
I was a Client Representative twenty years ago. I left, worked as an area sales director for a national company for three years, and came back in September.
Favorite thing about my job:
I love interacting with clients. I love helping fix problems. My job gives me the opportunity to get out there and make our clients happy.
Favorite things to do away from my job:
I love being with my family, my five kids, and two grandkids. Travel is now a hobby—mainly travelling to see my grandkids!
Crazy/funny? Great thing that happened here:
I came back to Mariani because there isn’t another company out there that can have just about any request thrown at them, say, “We can do that,” and actually make good on it.
Final thought:
It’s great to be back in the Mariani family.
Department:
IT
Describe your job:
I maintain our intranet site and service our internal applications.
Time at Mariani:
I’ve been at Mariani for over 2 years, starting with billing entry at Rocco Fiore & Sons
Before that:
I enlisted in the Army right out of high school. I was in from ’03 –’08. I served in Korea in the 2nd Infantry Division; the 5th Ranger Training Battalion, Camp Merrill, GA, assistant Cadre for the Mountain phase of Ranger School; 1st Infantry Division, Fort Riley, Kansas; Airbone, Jumped from C-130s and C-17s; Bradley Gunner; Winner of Soldier of the Quarter Honors.
Favorite thing about my job:
No two days are ever the same with computers! When IT software goes haywire and takes on a mind of its own, I get to put it back in its place.
Connection:
The team structures here remind me of the military unit structures we employed in the Army. It’s about working in a group, always taking pride in our work. And back then, we actually did what we called “area beautification”, which is essentially landscaping on post.
Final thought:
I love working at Mariani because I love to be a part of a great team.
What was your first job here:
Maintenance Crew
Department:
Gardening Team
Time at Mariani:
4 years
Describe your job:
I manage the maintenance and upkeep of properties, including cleaning, mowing, pruning, watering, planting in containers and flower beds, and managing crew members.
Favorite thing about your job:
My favorite thing is that I can use my creativity on different projects, which keeps my job interesting. Also, for me, it’s literally family. Dad worked here and introduced my sister and me to Mariani. Now my husband works here as well.
Favorite thing away from my job:
Spending time with my family and taking care of them. I also enjoy shopping.
Parking thought: Enjoy life and your family to the fullest because time goes by quickly.
Departament:
Maintenance
Describe your job:
Planting, trimming, mowing, and watering. General maintenance.
Time at Mariani:
4 years
What was your first job here:
I started working as a crew member, and this year, I was promoted to crew leader.
Favorite thing about my job:
I love working outdoors with plants and my crew, which is made up of my brother and a close friend whom I refer to as myself. Also, my manager, Lucas, provides great direction and ensures we deliver Mariani-level work.
Parting thought:
I’ve referred others to help them get access to the same things I’ve had.
Department:
Maintenance
Describe your role:
I manage eight maintenance crews.
Time at Mariani:
32 years, since 1990.
First job here:
I was a maintenance crew member with no experience when I moved here from Mexico. I moved up to Crew Leader-in-training, Crew Leader, and so on.
FAVORITE THING ABOUT YOUR JOB:
I love to work with my crews every day, teaching them. And being in the gardens—I enjoy it every day.
FAVORITE THING(S) TO DO AWAY FROM YOUR JOB: Spending time with my family. I love to cook traditional Mexican Arrachera. Running and lifting to stay in shape.
A FUNNY THING:
I made Frank Mariani laugh because I told him this company is like a university—you learn in both places, but here you get paid. Funny because it’s true.
Quality Control (off-season)
Department:
Maintenance
Describe Your Job:
Planting, trimming, mowing, pruning, maintaining, and servicing equipment
Time at Mariani:
3 years
Favorite thing about my job:
I get to work outside, and I get to work with great people in an environment where I don’t feel pressure. And the guys on the crew I work with always make me feel respected, like an equal.
Favorite thing away from my job:
I cook and clean to take care of my family. I dance to take care of myself.
Parting thought:
I used to work in manufacturing. Every day was the same thing. My dad told me about Marani when he used to work here, that every day is different. My sister works here too, and she said the same thing. They were right. Every day IS different.
Describe your job:
It involves many things–review the contract, go through safety measures, prep the site for grading, drainage and plant installation, clean up the property.
Working at Mariani:
Since 2008. I started as a laborer and was promoted to a crew leader not long after that.
Favorite thing about my job:
I love seeing a project through from start to finish.
Favorite thing away from my job:
Playing soccer with my kids.
Parting thought:
I love what I do. It’s never the same every day.
Department:
Design Build
Describe your job:
I work with a team of Landscape Architects, Project Managers, and Construction professionals to create beautiful outdoor spaces. My role is to be the client’s advocate through the entire process. The favorite part of my job is seeing our clients use and enjoy the spaces we create.
Time at Mariani:
This is my 30-year anniversary!
What was your first job here:
I started out in the design studio as a landscape designer after graduating from Michigan State – Go Green!
Favorite thing about my job:
We start fresh with every build project, and at the end of the day, we have a beautiful new landscape.
Favorite thing away from my job:
I love my teammates! There is so much experience and knowledge here; we are all very passionate about what we do.
Great thing that’s happened here: I am amazed at how technology has changed since I started at Mariani. We used to have CB radios to communicate with each other and hear everyone’s conversations—let’s just say we got to know each other very well.
Frank has been with Mariani since 1979 and leads all our construction operations for our Design/Build projects, the development of Mariani’s multiple facilities, and other aspects of our operations. His deep understanding of the industry, coupled with his commitment to quality and client satisfaction, has helped Mariani establish a reputation as a leader in the landscape construction space.
Frank works closely with our production and project management teams to ensure that every project is completed on time, on budget, and to the highest standards of excellence. His keen attention to detail and ability to effectively manage complex projects make him an invaluable asset to our team.
We are proud to have Frank as a leader in our organization. His extensive knowledge and experience in construction operations have been instrumental in our growth and success over the years.
Department:
Design Build
Describe your job:
Officially, I oversee construction, production and purchasing. I also solve the problems that come up in our infrastructure. I’m the guy who knows how to get things done.
Time at Mariani:
I started here in 1979.
What was your first job here:
I pushed a lawnmower on a maintenance crew.
Favorite Thing about My Job:
We start fresh with every build project, and at the end of the day, we have a beautiful new landscape.
Favorite thing away from my job:
Spending time with my family, my grandkids. I never miss their games.
Parting thought:
I’ve never looked for another job for 42 years. People called. I could’ve made more money if I had moved around. But I want to be a part of THIS family. I know what I have here.
Tim joined Mariani as part of the merger integration with Rocco Fiore & Sons in 2021 and has over 40 years of landscape design, architecture, and management experience.
At Mariani, he is responsible for leading his clients through the landscape design process with inspiration, communication, and coordination. With his team, Timothy delivers award-winning landscape designs and construction services.
Tim holds a Bachelor of Science in Landscape Architecture from Purdue University. Additionally, he is a licensed Landscape Architect in Illinois.
