Ruppert Landscape names new president

LAYTONSVILLE, Md. – Craig Ruppert, founder and chief executive of Ruppert Landscape, has announced the promotion of Phil Key to company president.

Ruppert explains, “Appointing Phil to the position of president was the right move for our organization. He has been integrally involved with the planning, execution and success of the business over the past five years in his role as vice president of the landscape management division. He is widely respected within the industry and within our organization at all levels, where he’s demonstrated a strong ability to listen, motivate and build consensus. His business acumen, strategic thinking ability and strong leadership will help guide our organization to the next level of its development. I’m confident Phil has a firm grasp of our culture and values and will capably impart and strengthen those values as our company continues to evolve.”

Key will focus on and manage the overall operations of the company as it seeks to expand both its landscape construction and landscape management operations. Key is replacing outgoing president, Chris Davitt, who will be retiring at the end of 2013. Craig Ruppert will continue to serve as CEO, assisting in the strategic planning process and working with Phil to ensure that customer service and employee development goals are achieved.

“After a thorough search, both internally and externally, we are fortunate and proud to be able to fulfill our company’s mission and promote Phil from within the company,” said Ruppert. “Chris has done an excellent job of preparing Phil for his new role and will assist Phil and our organization as an advisor through 2014.”

Key holds a bachelor’s degree in business from Western Maryland (now McDaniel) College and has been with the company for more than 15 years. He began his career as an intern in 1991 and worked his way through the ranks serving in virtually every position within the landscape management division up to and including branch manager and division vice president. He lives on Miller’s Island with his wife, Erika and their three children.