Our leadership
Ethoscapes is proudly led by seasoned professionals, who believe in and live our company values
and tirelessly dedicate themselves to our business’s continued success.
© 2024 Ethoscapes • All Rights Reserved
Darren McDonoughCHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Darren McDonough is the Chief Executive Officer for Ethoscapes and a proven executive leader with a distinguished career spanning military service, academia, and business operations. Most recently, he served as Senior Vice President at BrightView Landscapes, where he led the Florida Region and spearheaded strategic growth initiatives across a dynamic and competitive market.
A Long Island native, Darren proudly served over 20 years in the United States Army, rising through the ranks from enlisted soldier to commissioned officer. His military career included multiple combat deployments to Afghanistan and Iraq, where he commanded troops under the most challenging conditions. In recognition of his extraordinary courage and sacrifice, he was awarded the Bronze Star Medal with “V” Device for Valor and two Purple Hearts for wounds sustained in combat.
Following his retirement from active duty, Darren brought his leadership experience to academia as a History professor at Florida International University. Drawn back to operational leadership, he soon transitioned to the private sector, beginning as a District Manager at Aramark Uniform Services. He went on to hold senior roles in the security industry, including District Manager at AlliedBarton, General Manager and Regional Vice President at G4S Secure Solutions, and Vice President at Kent Security Services.
Throughout his career, Darren has demonstrated a consistent ability to lead complex organizations, drive operational excellence, and develop high-performing teams. His blend of battlefield-tested leadership, academic insight, and corporate acumen makes him a respected and influential leader across every field he’s served.
Outside of work, Darren enjoys spending time with his wife of 25 years, a dedicated neonatal nurse practitioner. Together, they share a love of travel and adventure—often golfing, surfing, or hiking in scenic destinations around the world. He is also a proud parent of two daughters currently pursuing their studies at universities in Florida.
Jerry CavittCHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
Jerry is the Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer of Ethoscapes and remains a dynamic executive leader known for his assertive and innovative approach. With a proven track record of driving growth and leveraging leading-edge technology, Jerry< has excelled in roles that demand strategic planning, turnaround management, and startup expertise. His experience in diverse international contexts has honed his skills in SaaS, IaaS, PaaS, VM, BI, and ERP design and implementation. Jerry’s keen understanding of process reengineering and change management, coupled with his experience in legal, supply chain optimization, and negotiations, makes him a versatile and effective leader. His adeptness in Mergers & Acquisitions, budgeting, business forecasting, and international relations underscores his comprehensive expertise.
Jerry’s leadership at Ethoscapes has been marked by strategic diversification, the introduction of new technology platforms, and significant improvements in operational efficiency and productivity. His contributions have been central to the company’s ability to redefine client deliverables and optimize assets efficiently, underlining his role as a key driver of Ethoscapes’ success and innovation. He has guided public, private, and PE-backed organizations through significant growth and technological integration. He has extensive experience in various executive roles including CEO, CFO, and COO across a broad range of industries including O&G, construction, manufacturing, warehousing/distribution, renewable energy, survey/land management, and landscape construction and maintenance.
Jerry enjoys spending time outdoors, often engaged in hands-on projects involving heavy equipment or working on the tractor. He also appreciates the occasional round of golf or time on the lake. A passionate automotive enthusiast, Jerry is currently restoring a 1967 Toyota FJ, following a previous restoration of a 1973 FJ. He also greatly enjoys spending quality time with his wife of 32 years and their three remarkable children.
Mary NovoaVice President of Human Resources
As Vice President of Human Resources, Mary Novoa brings a proven track record of building HR functions that foster collaboration, growth, and organizational success. With more than a decade of experience, she is recognized for her ability to establish people-first programs and provide leadership teams with the data and insights needed to drive strategic decision-making.
Mary’s career journey began in her parents’ distribution business, where she gained early exposure to sales, customer relations, and real estate projects. She began her professional career in Accounting and Finance before making a pivotal career change in 2008, transitioning from the hedge fund industry to pursue higher education and a career in human resources.
She launched her HR career at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City, where she supported employee relations and workplace investigations. Following the hotel’s renovation closure, she transitioned into the transportation sector, advancing from HR Generalist to leading the HR department of a $90M company.
Mary later served as Director of Talent and Culture at Bio-Chem Fluidics and as a Board Member, where she partnered with the company’s FTSE 100 parent organization to implement mentorship and learning and development programs. Throughout her career, she has specialized in building HR departments from the ground up, identifying organizational gaps, and nurturing cultures of continuous learning and improvement.
Beyond her professional contributions, Mary enjoys spending time with her family and pursuing various real estate projects.
Sandra LeijaVice President of Operations
Sandra Leija serves as Vice President of Operations at Ethoscapes, bringing more than 20 years of experience in landscape management, operations, and client relations. She is recognized for her ability to lead high-performing teams, manage complex client portfolios, and drive operational excellence across all divisions of the company. In her role, she oversees divisional performance, team development, and strategic execution, ensuring consistent delivery of quality and service.
Sandra began her career managing multimillion-dollar accounts and quickly built a reputation for surpassing sales goals while strengthening client partnerships. Over the years, she advanced into leadership roles in regional operations, training, and business development, where she implemented strategies that improved profitability, enhanced customer loyalty, and elevated team performance. Fluent in both English and Spanish, she leverages her bilingual skills to connect with clients and inspire diverse teams.
Before joining Ethoscapes, Sandra held senior leadership positions across multiple landscape firms, where she successfully led branch operations, improved financial performance, and developed scalable systems and training programs. She joined Ethoscapes in 2024 as an Account Manager, was promoted to Sales Manager in 2025, and quickly distinguished herself through her leadership in the Erosion Control Division. Her strategic mindset and proactive approach to customer service have been instrumental in driving revenue growth, operational efficiency, and client satisfaction—earning her promotion to Vice President of Operations.
Sandra holds a B.A. in Business Administration and Computer Information Systems from the University of Houston-Downtown. Passionate about mentoring and team development, she takes pride in fostering long-term client partnerships and strengthening organizational culture. Outside of work, she enjoys cycling, staying active in the Houston community, and spending time with her husband and two children.
Chris ConlonVice President of Business Development
Chris Conlon serves as Vice President of Business Development at Ethoscapes, bringing over two decades of leadership in sales, revenue strategy, and team development across the landscape and energy sectors. A results-driven executive, Chris has built a reputation for driving sustainable growth, developing high-performing teams, and expanding market presence through a combination of strategic planning and client-focused execution.
Throughout his career, Chris has led regional and national sales teams, delivering consistent year-over-year revenue growth and spearheading strategic initiatives that align sales operations with broader business goals. His expertise spans budgeting, forecasting, mentoring and building sales strategies tailored to diverse market segments. He is known for his ability to foster strong client relationships, implement data-driven processes, and lead with both vision and accountability.
Since joining Ethoscapes as Director of Business Development, Chris has played a critical role in elevating the company’s market presence by optimizing sales operations and refining client engagement strategies. His focus on long-term partnerships, operational efficiency, and team empowerment has been central to Ethoscapes’ continued expansion and success.
Chris attended the University of Mississippi and is actively involved in community leadership. He currently serves as Chairman of the Community Outreach Committee for the Community Association Institute – Houston Chapter and as a Village Representative for the Sienna HOA. Outside of work, Chris enjoys traveling, watching sports, and spending time with his wife and daughter.
Jose UdaveBranch Manager, Maintenance Division
Jose Udave serves as Branch Manager of the Maintenance Division at Ethoscapes, bringing more than 20 years of operational leadership in commercial landscaping. Known for his deep industry knowledge, strong team leadership, and unwavering commitment to service excellence, Jose plays a key role in overseeing daily operations, client relations, and the ongoing success of maintenance teams.
Since joining the company, Jose has quickly established himself as a trusted leader who blends hands-on field experience with strategic thinking. His background spans operations management, budgeting and quality control, as well as large-scale team leadership across diverse commercial and HOA portfolios. His strengths in contract management, safety compliance, and process improvement continue to drive efficiency and client satisfaction across Ethoscapes’ maintenance operations.
Fluent in both English and Spanish, Jose has successfully managed and developed field teams ranging from dozens to over 200 personnel. His leadership style is rooted in mentorship, accountability and a passion for delivering high-quality landscape services that reflect the values of the communities served.
Outside of work, Jose enjoys barbecuing in the backyard with family and spending time watching movies with his daughter. When he’s not at the grill, you’ll find him cheering on his favorite soccer team or catching the latest F1 race.
Samuel MiskiminsBranch Manager, Erosion Control Division
Samuel Miskimins serves as Branch Manager of the Erosion Control Division at Ethoscapes, where he brings nearly two decades of experience in landscape operations, project management, and customer service leadership. With a strong track record of operational efficiency, team development, and client satisfaction, Sam plays a key role in leading Ethoscapes’ specialized erosion control services.
Since joining Ethoscapes in 2024 as an Account Manager, Sam has been instrumental in managing client relationships, improving service delivery, and supporting the Erosion Control division’s continued growth. His ability to combine field expertise with strategic planning has made him a valued leader within the organization.
Prior to his time at Ethoscapes, Sam held leadership roles at regional and national landscape firms, where he successfully scaled branch operations, improved financial performance, and led high-performing teams. His broad expertise includes bid and estimating processes, budget management, OSHA compliance, and project scheduling. He has repeatedly demonstrated the ability to turn around underperforming operations, increase margins, and grow revenue through both service excellence and operational discipline.
Sam holds a Bachelor of Science in Landscape Horticulture from Colorado State University and brings a deep understanding of both the technical and relational aspects of the green industry.
He is passionate about leadership, mentorship, and building teams that take pride in their work and their impact on the communities they serve. Outside of work, Sam enjoys woodworking. He also enjoys spending time with his wife Sarah and three daughters.
Brad PalermoBranch Manager, Shared Services
Brad Palermo is the Branch Manager of Shared Services at Ethoscapes and is responsible for centralizing and optimizing non-core services across all operating companies with the goal of increasing efficiency and supporting scalable growth. A New Jersey native, he launched his career in the landscape industry while still in high school – mowing lawns on weekends and gaining hands-on experience with Westco’s crews during summer breaks. Following graduation, he ran his own landscaping business full-time while earning a bachelor’s degree in business administration.
In 2005, Brad sold his business and joined Westco as a Superintendent. His strong technical acumen led to a promotion to Enhancement Manager by 2008, where he quickly became the company’s go-to IT specialist. Brad was instrumental in modernizing Westco’s systems and processes, helping the company scale efficiently during a period of rapid growth. In addition to his technological contributions, he developed deep expertise in estimating, planning, scheduling, operational strategy, and sales.
In 2010, Brad transitioned into a Business Development Manager role, where he excelled in building and maintaining strong client relationships with large property management firms. After Ethoscapes acquired Westco in 2020, Brad was appointed Director of Operations and Technology. In this role, he drove operational improvements and helped unify workflows across teams.
Brad remains a respected leader in Houston’s green industry, known for his strategic thinking, business acumen, and organizational expertise. He thrives on solving complex challenges and delivering innovative solutions in a competitive market.
Outside of work, Brad enjoys spending time at his family’s farm in Shiner, Texas, with his wife Lindsay, whom he married in 2009, and their three children. His personal passions include cooking, traveling, and tackling home improvement projects.
Brandon KircherBranch Manager, Construction
Brandon Kircher serves as Branch Manager of Construction, bringing 14 years of industry expertise and a proven record of leadership and growth. His career is defined by operational excellence, team development, and a relentless focus on client service.
Brandon’s landscape career began in late 2012 at Earthfirst Landscapes, where he advanced quickly to Vice President of Sales. He played a key role in helping the company achieve recognition as Houston’s fastest-growing private business in 2015. In 2016, Brandon launched his own venture, Logiscapes, gaining valuable entrepreneurial experience in landscape design and business management.
In 2019, Brandon joined Houston Landscapes Unlimited, where he led operational and business growth initiatives. Under his leadership, the company achieved a remarkable 75% revenue increase from 2019 to 2024, earning him successive promotions to Vice President/COO and ultimately General Manager.
He leads construction operations with a focus on innovation, sustainability, and reliable execution. His background as a former professional polo player also shapes his leadership style—strategic, team-oriented, and driven by performance.
Mike PalermoDirector of Operations
Mike Palermo, Director of Operations, has devoted more than 30 years to advancing landscape services in Houston. As part of a predecessor organization that later became part of Ethoscapes, he played a central role in guiding teams through industry shifts and laying the foundation for the maintenance division’s success. Over the course of his career, Mike has also led initiatives to streamline invoicing, implement shared services, and strengthen collaboration between field and administrative teams—a legacy that reflects his leadership, adaptability, and deep commitment to client service.
In his current role, Mike is responsible for driving client satisfaction, account retention, and profitable growth across the company’s maintenance portfolio. He provides leadership and direct support to the account management team, standardizes estimating procedures, ensures accurate contract execution, and leads renewal strategies that strengthen long-term client relationships. Mike also plays a key role in onboarding, training, and mentoring account managers, building a high-performing team that delivers consistent value.
Known for his institutional knowledge, technical expertise, and approachable leadership style, Mike remains a trusted resource for both strategic direction and hands-on support.
Outside of work, Mike enjoys spending time with his wife, Karen, and their three adult children, as well as caring for his Great Danes. He is also passionate about traveling and exploring new destinations around the world.
Lori ButlerCPA, Controller
Lori Butler serves as the Controller at Ethoscapes and is an accomplished finance executive with over 30 years of experience leading financial operations across both nonprofit and private sector organizations. A Certified Public Accountant, Lori is known for building high-performing accounting teams, strengthening internal controls, and driving financial efficiency across complex organizations with revenues ranging from $18 million to over $80 million annually.
She currently oversees a talented accounting team, leads financial reporting for the board and equity stakeholders, and manages the integration of newly acquired companies.
Lori holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from Texas A&M University and maintains active memberships with the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Texas Society of CPAs – Houston Chapter. She is recognized for her strategic thinking, strong leadership, and ability to align financial systems with organizational goals.
Lori is happily married to Troy, also an A&M alumni, and has 4 beautiful children. They enjoy traveling, spending time watching sports and movies, and playing cards and board games.
