Testimonials

What Clubs Have Said About Us

Working with Denise and Chef Dan Hugelier, CMC from DZA for our Chef de Cuisine – Special Events search was an exceptional process. They brought us a well vetted candidate pool where each Chef could have been a good fit for our team. The communication and support throughout the process was with great detail, timely, and professional. Any question or request that we had through our process, they were there to assist or guide. This was a process we were having difficulty finding the right candidate on our own and when we partnered with DZA, we completed our process efficiently and with an exceptional Chef de Cuisine to help lead our team.

Brian R. Beland, CMC, Executive Chef | Director of Food & Beverage
Country Club of Detroit
Grosse Pointe Farms, MI

Working with Denise and the team at DZA was an absolute pleasure. From the moment we engaged their services, they demonstrated a remarkable dedication to our needs and goals. Their expertise and professionalism shone through as they navigated every aspect of the search process with finesse and efficiency.

Denise and her team provided invaluable support at every step, from understanding our specific requirements to sourcing top-tier candidates and facilitating seamless communication throughout the hiring process. Their commitment to excellence and personalized approach truly set them apart.

Thanks to DZA’s unwavering assistance and guidance, we were able to secure an exceptional executive chef who perfectly aligned with our vision and culinary goals. I wholeheartedly recommend DZA to any organization seeking unparalleled expertise and support in their search for top culinary talent.

Frank O'Hara, Clubhouse Manager
Dataw Island Club
St. Helena Island, SC

I am thrilled to share my experience working with Denise Zanchelli & David Meyers Associates in our search for an exceptional Executive Chef. They truly understood the unique requirements of our establishment and the vision we had for our culinary offerings. The range and quality of candidates they brought forward were impressive, showcasing their extensive network and understanding of the industry. Throughout the process, Denise displayed a keen eye for detail, presenting us with candidates who not only possessed outstanding culinary skills but also aligned with our company culture and values. Their ability to assess not only technical expertise but also personality fit was remarkable. Communication was exceptional. Regular updates, timely feedback, and insightful recommendations allowed us to make informed decisions at every stage of the hiring process. Their commitment to transparency and clear communication made us feel like valued partners, rather than just clients. In the end, we found the perfect Executive Chef who has elevated our culinary offerings beyond our expectations.

Jason Calkin, Assistant General Manager
The Beach Club
Santa Monica, CA

As we began our search for the next culinary leader at Riverton Country Club, we knew we needed to partner with the best Chef Search Firm in the industry. David Meyers and Denise Zanchelli did not disappoint. The candidates presented were all fully capable of stepping into the role of Executive Chef at Riverton Country Club, and far superior to the candidates we would have seen doing this on our own. We could not be happier with the outcome. Chef not only possesses all of the skills needed to lead the kitchen, but he was a perfect fit culturally for the organization. His leadership, vision and mentoring are exactly what the club needs at this moment and his impact has been felt immediately. David and Denise spent all of the time needed to learn about the Club and our culture, and ensured the candidates we saw would all fit the Club, not just from a culinary skills perspective, but soft skills and club culture as well. There is no doubt in my mind that we received value that far exceeded the cost we paid for their services. I would highly recommend that any Manager looking to hire a new Executive Chef calls David Meyers and engages them first.

Joseph A. Mendez, CCM, CCE, General Manager
Riverton Country Club
Cinnaminson, NJ

Looking for a Chef as you head into Memorial Day weekend is never ideal, but after speaking with a few other General Managers, I knew I needed to contact Denise to start the search. Without hesitation Denise placed a great interim chef so I could continue operations. Denise made the process seamless and quick. Her guidance to me and the committee resulted in finding a candidate that was a perfect fit. Denise saved the summer at the club, and I couldn’t be happier with the results. If looking for any culinary professionals Denise should be the first phone call.

Let me know if this works, I am having trouble using big words at 8pm. Honestly, if you want to edit it I will sign off on whatever you like! If you want it longer or shorter let me know. You are awesome and I am extremely grateful for your guidance.

Thank you !

Danny Jones, General Manager
Birchwood Country Club
Westport, CT

Denise and DZA Associates were outstanding to work with during our search for an Executive Pastry Chef. Denise took the time to truly understand our club, its specific needs and provided highly qualified candidates. She delivered timely updates throughout the process and her communication skills are incredible. It truly was a pleasure to work with such a seasoned professional and we will not hesitate to use Denise and her team for any of our future searches. Denise, it was a pleasure to get to know you and thank you for doing an amazing job for us!!!

Patrick Colley, Executive Chef
Carolina Country Club
Raleigh, NC

DZA Associates, led by Denise Zanchelli, exceeded our expectations in every aspect of our search for our new Executive Chef. Their proactive approach not only secured us an exceptional replacement but also provided invaluable support during the holiday season by supplying an Interim Chef, ensuring seamless operations, and meeting member expectations.

Denise and her team demonstrated professionalism, guiding us through the entire process with expertise and dedication. Their meticulous attention to detail and commitment to understanding our unique needs truly set them apart. Thanks to DZA Associates, we’ve found a remarkable Executive Chef who perfectly aligns with our vision and values. We couldn’t be more pleased with the outcome and without hesitation, we highly recommend Denise and her team to anyone seeking top-tier talent in the culinary industry. Thank you!

Nolan Halterman, CCM, PGA, General Manager/Chief Operating Officer
Hillcrest Country Club
Boise, ID

We have all been there – your chef has decided to make a move and you are now faced with the very daunting task of finding the perfect replacement that your members will immediately fall in love with. I have been through this process more times than I care to remember in my 30 years in the private club business, but the last time I experienced this transitional time it was a surprisingly pleasant experience. Bill and Denise were amazing communicators and provided constant updates, timelines, evaluation forms, and a slate of potential candidates within a month – all of whom were top level candidates. From the first communication with DZA Associates/David Meyers to discuss our needs, through the hiring and now follow-ups, they turned the potential negative of losing a Chef to a professional and positive experience of finding the right Chef.

Mark Grisham, General Manager
Black Creek Club
Chattanooga, TN

“…you made this search project, effortless and extremely professional.”

Jean-Luc Degeuines, General Manager
Knickerbocker Club
New York, NY

“We can’t thank the DMA Team enough. DZA has an outstanding effective process for hiring the best Chef for your operation.”

Michael Krause, Director of Operations/Assistant General Manager
Hampton Hall Club
Blufftown, SC

Working with DZA Associates, LLC for our Executive Chef search was a highly successful experience. They took the time to truly understand our unique needs and culture, ensuring that each candidate they presented was not only highly qualified but also an excellent fit for our team. While their expertise in sourcing top-tier culinary talent is recognized, their personalized attention and dedication was notably evident through every step of the process.

J. Todd Heifner, CCM, PGA, General Manager/COO
Hillwood Country Club
Nashville, TN

“…DZA Associates really made this a very seamless process. They were extremely professional and the experts in their field and were always such a pleasure to talk with!

Jason Fiscus, General Manager/COO
Tulsa Country Club
Tulsa, OK

We can’t thank Denise Zanchelli enough for her professionalism and being well versed in her area of expertise. Denise (DZA Associates) and David Meyers Associates conducted a national search to find us some of the best candidates for consideration. Denise was very instrumental in outlining the hiring process down to the smallest detail. We found the most qualified Executive Chef to fit the culture of Hampton Hall Club. DZA has an outstanding effective process for hiring the best Chef for your operation.

Michael Krause, (Former) Director of Operations / Assistant General Manager
Hampton Hall Club
Bluffton, SC

Thank you for bringing forth such a high-quality candidate pool for our consideration. You have been a true professional every step of the way guiding us through the David Meyers proven process. Congratulations on the retirement of David and especially on your new opportunity as the Managing Director of DZA LLC. Chartwell G & CC is fortunate and appreciative of your services thus far and look forward to the final phase of the process. At this point of your process, we could select any of the finalists and be more than satisfied with our choice. You have done an amazing job!

Richard Marr, General Manager
Chartwell Golf & Country Club
Severna Park, MD

… You turned a daunting concept into a manageable, organized, thoughtful process. We can’t thank you enough for all of the efforts that went into our search, resulting in what I am sure will be Chef’s great success at BGTC.

Caroline Black, President, Bedford Golf & Tennis Club<
Bedford, NY

The Genesee Valley Club developed a great partnership with David Meyers Associates, Inc. They were responsive, professional, and delivered us with first class candidates. I appreciated the attention to detail and their creative approach in finding us our new executive chef.

John M. Corey, CCM, General Manager & Chief Operating Officer
Rochester, NY