Meet the Team Behind the Experience
“Z” - Zafer Goncu
general manager
Zafer “Z” Goncu brings a truly global perspective and a lifelong passion for Hospitality service to his role as General Manager. Born in Istanbul—a historic and vibrant crossroads where two continents intersect—his approach to leadership is deeply rooted in a spirit of universal hospitality. He seamlessly blends the finest traditions of where East meets West to create exceptionally welcoming, world-class experiences for every member and guest.
A graduate of a Hospitality, Hotel & Motel Management School in Europe, Z has cultivated an extensive background in culinary management, event programming, and private club operations. His rigorous European training, combined with his rich cultural heritage, allows him to navigate the intricate details of club management with vision, elegance, and precision.
Having previously served as the longtime Director of Catering and Special Events, Z is a familiar and trusted presence to anyone who has stepped through the doors. In his executive leadership role, he is dedicated to driving strategic service improvements and innovative programming—from extensive creative Club Events to Chef's Tables in all areas of the Club for experiences to flawless private gatherings—all while maintaining the warm, personal connections that define the Club.
With an unwavering commitment to universal hospitality, Z looks forward to continuously elevating the Member experience and reinforcing the Club's reputation as a premier business and social destination.
Joshua Gary, CCM
EXECUTIVE manager
Joshua brings a wealth of experience to the City Club of Baton Rouge having served over 13 years at Baton Rouge Country Club as an Assistant Manager and the Country Club of Louisiana as the Clubhouse Manager. Joshua has a degree in Business Administration with a focus in Hotel, Restaurant, and Tourism from the University of New Orleans and earned his Certified Club Manager designation in 2017.
Cordell Walker
Executive Chef
Join us in welcoming Cordell Walker as our Club’s new Executive Chef. With his unique blend of creativity, passion for food and contagious leadership, I am confident that Chef Cordell will enhance our Club’s culinary offerings and elevate the dining experience for our members and guests.
A graduate of Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts in Austin, Texas, with post-graduate experience in Paris, France, Chef Cordell brings impressive culinary expertise to City Club. Chef Cordell’s wide range of experience includes working at Austin’s Ventana restaurant, serving as Sous Chef for Chef John Folse & Company and Jubans, partnering with Dooky Chase on special events, serving as Executive Chef for Marriott Baton Rouge, and more.
Chef Cordell brings vast experience in creative, upscale catering that will greatly enhance club events, private events, and weddings. For member dining, look forward to Chef Cordell’s fresh perspective on fine dining, featuring Louisiana-inspired plates using local ingredients along with new dishes showcasing global flavors – all while still offering your club favorites.
Stay tuned for upcoming culinary events, special daily featured dishes, and added variety and updates to our menus - as well as a special reception for members later this month to introduce you to Chef Cordell and his culinary artistry.
Chef Cordell looks forward to meeting you on your next visit to the City Club - feel free to ask for him, as he’d be delighted to stop by your table to chat! For dining reservations or more information about booking a private event, please call 225-387-5767or email us at cityclub@brcityclub.com.
Madison Meeks
EVENT PLANner
Madison’s event and wedding planning expertise comes from the many hats she’s worn over the years. Training at various types of venues, under her own event planning business and covering positions such as Sales Manager, Wedding Planner, Event Coordinator and Decorator has given her the insight to help you through every step of the event planning process. When she was younger, she always hoped she would find herself in a life long career that brought her joy and fulfillment. With every event, wedding and client that comes in her life, she ends every day grateful to have found her dream job. Her goal is to help you celebrate every part of your life with seamless planning and big dreams.
Kenny Roberson
Operations Manager | Trainer
Kenny has been with the City Club for over 20 years with a Commitment, and Dedication to our Members and to the Success of the City Club Of Baton Rouge. Kenny is an integral part of the team and we're all so inspired by his Hard Work, Loyalty, and Leadership. His fantastic personality and detailed knowledge of how to run the parties along with the many years of experience at the Club is responsible for the overall operations of the Clubhouse facility, including maintaining high standards in all club services and operations.
John Trotter
Assistant Operations Manager
Born in Mississippi, John joined the City Club team in 2022 after earning his Bachelor of Science degree from LSU. He has a strong passion for hospitality and truly enjoys building meaningful relationships with members while helping create exceptional experiences. Whether it’s a special event or an everyday visit, John takes pride in making every moment at the Club welcoming and memorable.
Evan Richardson
Bar Manager
Born and raised in Prairieville, Louisiana, Evan brings 15 years of experience in the restaurant and customer service industry. He has earned an Introductory Sommelier certification and is deeply passionate about bartending and delivering exceptional experiences to every guest. Evan loves food and wine—especially the art of pairing flavors—and enjoys continuously learning new skills while perfecting his craft. Outside of work, he prioritizes maintaining a healthy and balanced lifestyle.
Faith McQuirter
Club Events & Marketing Director
Faith is a Baton Rouge native and proud LSU graduate who has been part of the City Club team since 2022. She is passionate about creating memorable experiences and bringing thoughtful details to every event. Building meaningful connections and delivering exceptional hospitality are at the heart of what she does.
Natalie Graham
Membership & Communications Director
Natalie brings a wealth of experience in events, hospitality, and member relations to her role as Membership Director at the City Club of Baton Rouge. Prior to joining the Club, she spent four years in the wedding planning industry, where she developed a strong foundation in event coordination, client service, and personalized experience design. Natalie then served as the Event Planner at the City Club for three years, contributing to memorable gatherings and deepening her connection to the Club’s membership community.
As Membership Director, Natalie focuses on fostering meaningful relationships, guiding prospective members through the application process, and enhancing the overall member experience. Her thoughtful approach and commitment to service help ensure the City Club continues to be a premier business and social destination for members and their guests.
Trish Dykes
CONTROLLER
Trish is a native of Ascension Parish, mother of two, and coaches’ wife. Trish joined the accounting department in 1998, however, decided to further her accounting knowledge in 2015. In her absence, she worked both with an accounting services group and a Medical insurance company. Returning in December 2018, she has returned with tools and knowledge to benefit the City Club. With a new outlook, she is excited to serve our members to make your experience here exceptional.