HeartLand Executive and Leadership Team

October, 2026

Leadership Overview

HeartLand has 4 executives leading key functions including corporate strategy, financial oversight, and regional operations across the United States.

Focused on scaling commercial landscaping excellence, HeartLand empowers local businesses through centralized support while maintaining unique regional identities and delivering high-quality property maintenance services nationwide.

Leadership Roles at HeartLand

  • Founder & Chief Executive Officer - Edward Schatz
  • Chief Financial Officer - Peter Welch
  • President, Region (East) - John Umphred
  • President, Mountain Region (West) - M.J. Kasper
  • Edward Schatz - Founder & Chief Executive Officer

    Edward Schatz, the Founder & Chief Executive Officer at HeartLand, directs the overarching strategic vision for this commercial landscaping organization. By architecting partnerships with established landscape businesses across the United States, the Founder & Chief Executive Officer ensures consistent service delivery in irrigation management, tree care, and snow removal. Edward Schatz maintains alignment between centralized operational support and the unique cultural identity of every partner company. This leadership role involves constant evaluation of market opportunities within healthcare, education, and industrial sectors to drive sustainable growth. Through rigorous oversight of the national network, the Founder & Chief Executive Officer secures long-term stability for the entire enterprise. By fostering a culture of excellence, Schatz enables the organization to provide superior property services while expanding the footprint of the company across diverse geographic markets.

    Peter Welch - Chief Financial Officer

    Peter Welch, the Chief Financial Officer at HeartLand, manages the fiscal health and capital allocation strategies for the entire commercial landscaping network. Overseeing financial planning, reporting, and risk management, the Chief Financial Officer ensures that all partner businesses maintain profitability while scaling operations. Peter Welch drives the integration of financial systems to support landscape maintenance, design, and installation services across the United States. This role involves close collaboration with the executive team to evaluate potential acquisitions and investments in sustainability services. By optimizing cash flow and resource distribution, the Chief Financial Officer supports the long-term viability of the company. Welch maintains strict adherence to fiscal discipline, allowing the organization to invest in advanced equipment and technology for residential and commercial lawn care. Ultimately, the Chief Financial Officer provides the economic foundation necessary for continued national expansion.

    John Umphred - President, Region (East)

    John Umphred, the President, Region (East) at HeartLand, directs all operational activities and service delivery standards throughout the eastern United States. Overseeing a diverse portfolio of commercial properties, healthcare facilities, and educational institutions, the President, Region (East) ensures that local teams execute high-quality landscape maintenance and snow removal services. John Umphred coordinates with partner businesses to implement standardized irrigation management and plant care protocols while preserving local operational autonomy. This leadership role involves driving regional growth through the acquisition of specialized landscape firms and the expansion of existing service contracts. By monitoring performance metrics and client satisfaction, the President, Region (East) maintains the competitive edge of the company in the eastern market. Umphred facilitates the seamless integration of new partners into the national network, ensuring that every site receives consistent, professional care.

    M.J. Kasper - President, Mountain Region (West)

    M.J. Kasper, the President, Mountain Region (West) at HeartLand, manages all landscape operations and strategic initiatives across the western United States. Overseeing complex projects for industrial sites, retail centers, and residential communities, the President, Mountain Region (West) ensures that regional teams deliver superior design, installation, and sustainability services. M.J. Kasper drives operational efficiency by aligning local expertise with the broader corporate mission of the company. This leadership role involves identifying new market opportunities and fostering relationships with regional landscape businesses to expand the national footprint. By implementing rigorous safety and quality standards, the President, Mountain Region (West) maintains the reputation of the organization in challenging western climates. Kasper coordinates with other regional leaders to share best practices in irrigation and ice removal, ensuring that the company remains the premier choice for comprehensive property services.
    M.J. Kasper

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding HeartLand Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads HeartLand?
    HeartLand is led by Edward Schatz (Founder & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Peter Welch (Chief Financial Officer) and John Umphred (President, Region (East)).
    Who is part of HeartLand’s executive team?
    The executive team of HeartLand includes leaders such as Edward Schatz (Founder & Chief Executive Officer), Peter Welch (Chief Financial Officer), John Umphred (President, Region (East)) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does HeartLand have?
    HeartLand has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in HeartLand’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of HeartLand includes roles such as Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, President, Region (East), President, Mountain Region (West).