Meet Jennifer Jorge, the 2025 Woman Leader of the Year.

Jennifer Jorge, president and partner at King Green, based in Gainesville, Georgia, is a powerhouse leader and is committed to advancing the industry. Her vocal advocacy for women in a predominantly male field earned her the 2025 Woman Leader of the Year award from the National Association of Landscape Professionals.

“I’m deeply honored and incredibly grateful,” Jorge says. “To be recognized by peers I admire, in an industry I love, means more than I can say. It’s not just about me — it’s about every woman who’s ever wondered if she belonged here. We do. And we’re just getting started.”

Lawn care is woven into the fabric of Jorge’s family as her father started King Green in 1987.

Jorge didn’t always know she wanted to take over the family business, but she did know early on she wanted to be a leader who made a difference.

“His example showed me the power of putting people first and understanding that early on is what ultimately drove me to join the family business and help carry that mission forward,” Jorge says.

After graduating from college, she intentionally worked her way through every department at the company, working in customer service, operations, finance and even as a branch manager.

“I was very aware of the perceptions that might come with being the owner’s daughter that’s why I was so intentional about earning trust and proving myself at every level. I didn’t ask for special treatment — I asked for opportunities to learn, to grow, and to lead.”

~ Jennifer Jorge

As a woman in the industry, Jorge says at times it’s been isolating but also motivating.

“I’ve had to carve my own path, find my voice, and surround myself with people who believe in what’s possible,” Jorge says. “Today, I’m grateful to be part of a growing network of strong women who are changing the face of this industry.”

Jorge has worked to create both a company and an industry in which women can thrive i. She encourages other women in the industry to be curious, bold and not afraid to step up.

“Representation matters. When women step into leadership roles, we bring different perspectives, priorities, and ways of leading. That diversity strengthens our businesses and our industry. It also shows the next generation what is possible with representation.”

~ Jennifer Jorge

One aspect Jorge has been passionate about is promoting work-life integration, rather than work-life balance.

“The idea of balance implies both sides should be equal — but that’s just not reality,” Jorge says. “Sometimes work needs more of me, and other times my family does. Integration allows me to show up fully in both areas of my life.”

Jorge has seen firsthand what happens when work-life integration is lacking, leading to burnout, resentment and disengagement. She says a mentor encouraged her to find a ‘bridge’ to use as a mental marker to leave your work, as deciding when to go home isn’t about the job being done. It’s about knowing when to stop.

“On your way home, leave your work on that bridge,” Jorge says. “If you’re not ready to leave it there, you’re not ready to cross it. But the next morning, on your way in, your work will still be waiting for you. The bridge doesn’t mean you stop caring or never take a call — it’s a reminder that carrying the full weight of work home every day takes a toll, especially on the people you love most.”

Jorge says this mindset changed the way she leads and reminded her that time with your family isn’t just nice to have. It’s essential for your well-being and happiness.

“That’s why we’re committed to helping our team define their own ‘bridges,’ set healthy boundaries, and build lives that include success at work and at home,” Jorge says. “Because when people feel supported in both, they show up better everywhere.”

Jorge experienced firsthand the need for her family to take priority when a medical crisis occurred.

“In that moment, I felt something I’ll never forget: immense pride,” Jorge says. “I knew I could step away because we had built a team strong enough to carry the torch. I trusted them fully, and they showed up in every way that mattered. To see them continue to succeed — to continue leading, serving customers, and supporting each other — reminded me why we invest so much into building culture, trust, and leadership across the company.”

Another cause Jorge is passionate about is giving back.

She says her company doesn’t just want to provide great lawn care; they want to truly make a difference.

“One of the ways we do that is through our King Green Day of Service, where each of our branches selects a local non-profit to support,” Jorge says. “It’s one of my favorite initiatives because it empowers our teams to give back in ways that are meaningful to them.”

Taking a leadership role.

Jorge serves in various leadership roles, including the NALP board of directors, the Women in Landscape Network leadership team and the Georgia Urban Ag Council.

“Whether through NALP, the Urban Ag Council, or local non-profits, I want to help build pathways for others — especially women — to grow, lead, and succeed,” Jorge says. “Leadership is a privilege, and it comes with a responsibility to lift others as you climb.

Jorge will be presented with her award during ELEVATE in Phoenix, Arizona, on Nov. 2-5.