What does it take to not just grow a successful trades business — but pass it on to the next generation of leaders? Carroll Fitzgerald, a former banker turned business owner, shares how he did exactly that with Fitzgerald’s Landscaping.
From Banker to Builder
Carroll started with no landscaping experience, just a push mower and a desire to teach his kids to work. Over 20+ years, he grew Fitzgerald’s into a full-service landscaping business with divisions in design, irrigation, tree care, and maintenance.
Scaling Smart
Instead of trying to do it all himself, Carroll hired experts early — irrigators, designers, and admin pros. He also used his banking background to keep the business cash-healthy and debt-free, building up a strong balance sheet and predictable cash flow.
Planning the Exit
Five years before he sold, Carroll began succession planning. He ruled out selling to corporate chains and decided to sell to four of his top managers. Using SBA financing, a vendor takeback, and clean books, he structured a deal that worked for everyone — even though none of the employees had the upfront cash.
Lessons for Contractors
Carroll’s story is a masterclass in business succession done right. Whether you're in landscaping, cabinetry, or HVAC, the principles apply:
More about Carroll Fitzgerald: LinkedIn | Fitzgerald's
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