About RZ
DELIVERING SUCCESS WITH PRIDE & CARE.
We're on a mission to reduce the turnover rate in the restaurant & hospitality industry by half!
Restaurant Zone offers top-notch service, consistency, and expertise in the restaurant & hospitality sector. Whether it's recruiting talent or securing that thrilling new job, there's a path ahead – and we're going to address it together!
Who We Are
RestaurantZone delivers success, with pride & care.
Whether you're an employer in the industry seeking exceptional talent or a job-seeker looking to kickstart a rewarding career, Restaurant-Zone has been dedicated to delivering success with care for over 12 years. We take pride in our work and are committed to achieving excellence for our clients.
To offer the best possible service to our valued customers - employers and job-seekers alike. For employers, we aim to deliver outstanding hires, ease hiring challenges, address hiring issues, offer hiring solutions, and provide exceptional, personalized service. For job-seekers, our goal is to assist them in securing fulfilling careers, handling their career paths with care, presenting great options and opportunities, and offering exceptional, personalized service.
We bear a significant responsibility to our customers. We are dedicated to excellence, exceptional service, and surpassing the value provided by our competitors. Our top priority is centered on our customers and delivering a top-notch end-customer experience.
Restaurant-Zone is committed to delivering top-notch service, consistency, and expertise in the restaurant and hospitality sector. Our objective is to offer our customers top-tier, tailored hiring solutions. Our expertise spans across restaurants, retail, food service, hotels, and the hospitality industry in the US and Canada. We provide hires that align with your company culture, contribute to it, and drive tangible results, such as increased sales, profits, and growth.
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Our Vision
Our vision is to be an outstanding, innovative recruiting firm that offers exceptional solutions and service to our clients and a fantastic work environment, while also being financially rewarding for our team. We aim to continuously grow and become the leading and most reputable hiring firm in the restaurant, hospitality, and hotel industry.
Our Values
Our Values At The Zone Companies, we highly value the following 5 core principles in our team members.
- Everyone an Entrepreneur
- Always in Integrity
- Stoically StructuredÂ
- No Dancing Around DiligenceÂ
- Teamwork to Make Dreams Work
Everyone an Entrepreneur
An entrepreneur is an intrinsically motivated individual who possesses leadership qualities like the ability to persuade and inspire. They are also self-reliant, solutions-oriented, accountable, challenge the status quo, and can rely on their emotional intelligence to remain calm even in stressful situations.
These individuals excel at identifying gaps in business and confidently steering it in the right direction.
Always in Integrity
"Embrace mistakes and learn from them"
At RZ, Integrity serves as the cornerstone of all our actions. We are dedicated to honesty, trust, and transparency. We consistently choose to do the right thing, even when unobserved. Our organization has cultivated a positive and inclusive environment that nurtures open, honest, and meaningful relationships. We promote fairness, and equality, and facilitate courageous conversations.
Upholding integrity, we strive for fair and equitable solutions for RZ, employees, and clients, always prioritizing the best interests of all parties involved; Clients, Candidates, and our RZ team members.
Stoically Structured
Picture yourself constructing a robust framework.
We stand firm to ensure tasks are well-organized, focus on the finer details, strategically plan for success, and possess the ability to adapt our communication skills.
No Dancing Around Diligence
We all know individuals, whether friends, family, or colleagues, who tend to avoid doing the necessary work.
Here at Restaurant Zone, we prioritize quality, consistency, and accountability. We ensure that our tasks are completed promptly and take pride in delivering high-quality, final outcomes.
Teamwork to Make Dreams Work
Every member at RZ collaborates harmoniously. We aim to assist one another in all daily interactions. We have complete faith in our team members and demonstrate our trustworthiness. In the event of any setbacks, we work together to rebuild trust.
Being able to identify each other's blind spots and supporting each other to achieve success is a significant aspect of how our organization progresses together.
This aspect distinguishes us from other work environments. While competitiveness is inherent in the industry, we also prioritize the thriving of our team. OUR success is YOUR success!
Meet The Team
Our recruiters have 50+ years of cumulative experience recruiting executives, corporate office, management, & hourly employees:
Learn About Matt!
Learn About Kenny!
Whitney Armistead,
Recruitment Manager
Whitney has been with Restaurant Zone since 2021 and has a strong passion for leadership and hospitality. With extensive experience in the industry as a Chef and Director of Operation, she has excelled in recruiting for specific positions and building relationships with clients, which has been crucial to her success in staffing for the companies she has worked with. During her time at Restaurant Zone, Whitney has collaborated with a variety of companies in the hospitality sector, including fast casual, large franchise groups, and independent restaurants, filling roles from crew members to key managers in both the back and front of the house, as well as the executive team.
She pursued her Bachelor’s in Food Service and Hospitality Management as well as her Master’s degree in Organizational Leadership at Johnson and Wales University. This educational background has provided her with a deep understanding of hiring within the hospitality industry and the leadership requirements of large organizations for their upper management staff. Additionally, she resides in the resort community of Vail, CO, where she has gained valuable insights into the needs of high-end resort organizations and enjoys the recreational opportunities offered by the Rocky Mountains. In her free time, she can be found outdoors, participating in activities such as volleyball, tennis, hiking with her dogs, and paddle boarding on the lake, making the most of the sunshine.
Work with Whitney, email her at: contactus#therestaurantzone.com
Sherry Brown, Recruitment Manager
Sherry has worked with various accounts such as Solange Ristorante, Copper Door, Gigi’s, Tiki Tiki, Front Porch, Fish Stix, Burger King, McDonald’s, Beard Papa’s, where she has placed Executive Chefs, Sous Chefs, General Managers, and AGMs, among others. With over 25 years of experience in Agency Recruiting and as a Corporate Recruiter at Carl Karcher Enterprises, she has paved the way for a successful career in Hospitality. Her success is attributed to continuous training and education in her field, including Certification in Human Resource Management, SPHR forums, and various LinkedIn Certifications.
Sherry is a driven leader committed to transforming lives and enhancing outcomes. She believes her gift of discernment enables her to connect people with rewarding careers, contributing to individual and company achievements. Her efforts lead to increased sales and profits for both companies and individuals.
Her promotion to Recruitment Manager has allowed her to support others in advancing their careers. The exceptional training programs, created by RSS/RestaurantZone COO, aim to replicate the success of team members. The dedicated team at Rodgers Staffing Solutions/The RestaurantZone is committed to making a positive impact on individuals and clients.
Work with Sherry, email her at: contactus#therestaurantzone.com
Account Managers
Greggory SkochÂ
Account Manager
Allison Rice
Account Manager
Garrett Roper
Account Manager
Hospitality Recruiters
McKenna Brewer,Â
Hospitality Recruiter
McKenna joined RestaurantZone in 2021 as a Hospitality Recruiter. Based in the Bay Area, California, she has extensive experience in hospitality recruiting. She enjoys matching candidates with great clients and believes that building lasting relationships is crucial for success in her role.
Since joining RestaurantZone, she has successfully placed Executive Chefs, Sous Chefs, General Managers, and Assistant Managers. McKenna has collaborated with clients nationwide, including in California, New York, Florida, Ohio, and other regions. Through thorough sourcing and outreach efforts, she has established a strong candidate pipeline for various positions such as Director of Operations, Multi-Unit Manager, FOH & BOH Managers, Executive Chefs, Sous Chefs, Line Cooks, and Prep Cooks.
McKenna is a graduate of Suffolk University in Boston, MA, where she earned her Bachelor's Degree in Political Science and Associate's Degree in English. During her college years, she worked full-time at Bar Louie as a Bartender and Assistant Manager. Her interests include travel, animals, and spending time with her family.
Work with McKenna, email her at : contactus#therestaurantzone.com
Maximilian Vlach,Â
Hospitality Recruiter
Max joined the RestaurantZone team in July 2021. His passion for staffing and recruiting is backed by fifteen years of restaurant experience. Now, he can leverage his industry knowledge and recruiting expertise to identify the best candidates for his clients. Currently, he is collaborating with clients such as Pilot Travel Centers, McDonald's, Pizza Hut, Applebee's, Tastes on the Fly, Condado Tacos, and more. He takes pleasure in recruiting for all positions, from Line Cook to General Manager to Area Supervisor, as long as it helps people get back to work and support their families.
Max earned a Bachelor of Science in Audio Engineering from the University of Colorado Denver. Despite being a musician at heart, he has extensive experience in restaurant management in California and Colorado. Transforming this experience into recruiting has become his passion.
He currently lives in beautiful Bend, Oregon, with his wife and children. He has a strong affinity for the outdoors and spends his free time hiking, snowboarding, and fishing. Additionally, he enjoys cooking in his kitchen.
Work with Max, email him at: contactus#therestaurantzone.com
Ryan Guzowski,
Hospitality Talent Advisor
Ryan attended Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan, where he studied Business and Marketing.
He then transitioned into the hospitality industry by recruiting CDL Class A Truck Drivers, where he achieved great success, leading to many other opportunities. Ryan chose Restaurant Zone because he is always seeking new challenges and felt that Restaurant Zone would be the perfect fit.
Outside of work, Ryan's passions revolve around sports. He enjoys playing golf and softball in the summer and hockey in the winter. What defines Ryan is his determination to excel in any challenge he faces, all while maintaining a cheerful demeanor.
Work with Ryan, email him at: contactus#therestaurantzone.com
Jennifer Chen,Â
Hospitality Recruiter
With over 15 years of experience in the food and beverage industry, Jennifer has worked in leadership roles for corporate restaurant environments and mentored franchise owner operators. She is familiar with all field operations positions, having started from the bottom up. Jennifer has a strong passion for people and development.
Before joining The Restaurant Zone, Jennifer held positions in QSRs as a Multi-Unit Manager, Training Manager, General Manager, and gained extensive experience in new store openings, including recruiting, hiring, training, and developing associates for leadership roles or career advancement. She cultivated a loyal clientele through friendly and professional interactions and consistent appreciation.
In addition to the Restaurant Industry, Jennifer has also worked in finance, health and wellness, retail, and administration as an Executive Assistant for C-level executives. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Human Development with a minor in Business.
Outside of work, Jennifer is a lifelong learner and family-oriented. She enjoys learning about functional medicine and integrating healing arts into her daily life. Jennifer savors a delicious cup of coffee or hot tea while enjoying nature hikes and walks by the ocean. She is excited to leverage her experience to make a significant impact in recruiting top talent for the hospitality industry.
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Work with Jennifer, email her at: contactus#therestaurantzone.com
Stacie Gancayco Adlao,
Hospitality Recruiter
Matthew Ferguson,
Hospitality Talent Advisor
Matt actively engages in his local community in Detroit, Michigan, with a particular passion for the arts, especially music, as he has been a musician for most of his life. He enjoys connecting with people, spreading kindness, sharing laughter, and engaging in conversations, whether in a professional environment, his favorite coffee shop, or local pub.
Austin Breen
Sr. Hospitality Recruiter
Be it small - the changes we make daily can still have a significant impact. Austin is dedicated to enhancing the lives of Hospitality Operational Management and Associates. With over a decade of hands-on experience in more than 20 establishments, either through internships or employment, he has a deep understanding of this industry. Holding a degree in Culinary Arts and Restaurant Management, he is familiar with the challenges, requirements, and individuals essential for success.
Originally from Utah, now residing in Colorado, Austin is a frequent traveler and van dweller who enjoys outdoor activities and immersing himself in different cultures. He is always up for a discussion about food, treasure hunting, or environmental conservation. Prior to relocating to Colorado, Austin established a Non-Profit 501c(3) organization called W.I.L.D (What If Litter Disappeared) dedicated to removing litter from natural areas. He comes from a diverse family background, blending Fijian, Utahn, and Southern cultures under one roof.
Work with Austin, email him at: contactus#therestaurantzone.com
Lalaine BrounsuzianÂ
Hospitality Recruiter
Francisco Medina Ceceña
Hospitality Recruiter
Emily Wing
Hospitality Talent Advisor
Emily earned her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a specialization in Hospitality and Tourism Management from Appalachian State University (Go Mountaineers!). Her roots intertwine the Blue Ridge Parkway with the sandy coastlines of Virginia and the Carolinas. When she manages to detach herself from her laptop and a captivating book, you will likely find Emily in the kitchen preparing a hearty pot of soup or attempting to replicate her beloved Starbucks beverage, all while skillfully evading any encounters with her and her husband's furry companions. She eagerly anticipates leveraging her expertise and southern charm to recruit top-tier talent and foster stronger teams.
RZ MANAGEMENT TEAM!
Learn About Joseph!
Learn About Cromwell!
Learn About Hazel!
Learn About Joan!
Companies That Trust RestaurantZone
Why Choose RZ?
- We’re heavily focused on client needs. While recruiting for each and every one, our clients have similarities, every client has different specific needs. Our job is to understand our clients unique needs and develop a recruitment strategy that actually delivers & works for them.
- RZ is an agency that has the best-in-class technology & resources to recruit for customers. We have a proprietary database of 770,000 unique candidates in the industry and access to over 250MM+ candidates with our technology, advertising and partnerships. This leads to clients having access to the best talent and many quality options.
- Our team has worked & recruited in restaurants, hotels and hospitality. Working with a large traditional agency can be costly and many times they don’t deliver the candidates you need (or longevity, for that matter!). Many just send resumes, while at our agency you can expect quality over quantity (but still deliver quickly!). We send robust notes, background checks, but spend time doing our due diligence on candidates on behalf of our clients. Which yield in producing better retention rates and hires that last & deliver value for several years. 97.5% of the time RestaurantZone gets the first-time hire correct the first time around.
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Where You Can Find Us
RZ is a nationwide firm and operates in every U.S. state. Here is a short list of some of the cities we serve:
New York, NY
Los Angeles, CA
San Francisco, CA
Tampa, FL
Austin, TX
Maryland
Nevada
Arizona
Washington D.C.
Atlanta, GA
Dallas, TX
Minneapolis, MN
Ready to find your next Superstar?
Speak with a Recruiter to help you find the right solution today. Every client has a customized cost structure based on their business size, market, location, and unique hiring needs. Our team works to create a structure that can deliver maximum value, impact, and is cost-effective for our client. Please call 1-800-513-5096 or email contactus#therestaurantzone.com to request a detailed quote & contract.
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