VerdeVista Partners Appoints Merrill Lynch Managing Director as Chairman of the Board
Share
Philadelphia, PA: November 24, 2025 – VerdeVista Partners is proud to announce the appointment of Carlos Valle as Chairman of the Board, strengthening the firm’s governance, acquisition discipline, and long-term strategic oversight as VerdeVista advances its regional roll-up of landscaping, tree care, snow and ice management companies in the Greater Philadelphia region.
Mr. Valle is a seasoned finance leader, former Managing Director at Merrill Lynch and a strategic transactional advisor to private equity. He has led global teams overseeing more than $2 billion in client assets and has delivered multiple successful middle-market exits over a 30-year career. He brings deep expertise in operational strategy, mergers, acquisitions, and organizational growth to VerdeVista.
VerdeVista’s Board of Directors is composed of Fortune 50 dealmakers, industry operators, and finance professionals with experience from DuPont, SolomonEdwards, and the Landscaping sector. The board is further advised by Philadelphia-based corporate law firm Kleinbard, and by BDO’s Transaction Advisory practice.
Jeremy Zuba, Director of Legal Advisory at VerdeVista, says:
“Carlos joins VerdeVista at a pivotal moment. His experience leading complex transactions and his commitment to disciplined, ethical decision-making strengthens our governance structure. His presence ensures that as we grow, we do so with clarity, alignment, and respect for the businesses and communities we are entrusted to serve.”
Carlos Valle, Chairman of the Board, states:
“VerdeVista has a clear vision and a strong culture. I am excited to support its growth. I look forward to working with John and the board to help build a special firm that delivers long-term value to the businesses and communities we partner with.”
John D. Hernandez, Founding Principal of VerdeVista, added:
“Beyond Carlos’ undeniable track record, he embodies the old school principles we value at VerdeVista: integrity, excellence and relentless execution. He complements our ethos, and we look forward to executing our mission of being the greatest stewards of legacy for retiring business owners, creators of jobs in the communities we serve, and strong operational partners for our investors seeking direct investment opportunities in the lower middle-market service sector.”
About VerdeVista Partners
VerdeVista Partners is an independent sponsor, business operator, and acquirer headquartered in Greater Philadelphia, focused on solving succession challenges for owners of landscaping, tree service, and snow and ice management businesses across the Mid-Atlantic who are preparing to retire. Founded by John D. Hernandez, a Chester County native and home-services entrepreneur, VerdeVista brings together institutional-grade experience and industry know-how to apply structure, professionalism, and steady leadership to owner-built companies. The firm elevates service quality, expands capabilities, creates stable employment opportunities, supports management and ensures a successful business transition for owners as they enter retirement.
John D. Hernandez
Founding Principal
VerdeVista Partners
john@partnerverdevista.com
Strategic Partnerships & Communications
VerdeVista Partners
partnerships@partnerverdevista.com