Tanque Verde Ranch Celebrates Top Workplace Recognition for Tucson and Arizona For the Second Year in A Row
Tanque Verde Ranch, one of Arizona's most historic and scenic guest ranches, has been recognized for the second consecutive year as a Top Workplace Tucson by TucsonMedia and a Top Workplace Arizona by the Arizona Daily Star in the mid-size employer category. The honor highlights the Ranch's continued commitment to fostering a positive, people-first workplace culture that translates into exceptional guest experiences.
A Culture Rooted in Connection and Care
At Tanque Verde Ranch, hospitality begins with the team. Every employee—from the wranglers and kids' program leaders to the culinary and guest service staff—plays a role in creating a welcoming, memorable experience that embodies the Ranch's signature blend of adventure, community, and care.
"It's an incredible honor to see Tanque Verde Ranch recognized as a top workplace in Tucson and Arizona," said Jocelyn Antonucci, People Services Director at Tanque Verde Ranch. "I'm so proud of the amazing team we have here. Every day we create exceptional memories together, support one another, and make this a truly special place to work."
Managing Director Terry Hanley echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the collective spirit behind the achievement.
"It is such an honor to be nominated by our talented team of hospitality experts and to be recognized for their efforts," Hanley said. "Tanque Verde Ranch is a very special place, and we all recognize and appreciate that. So do our guests."
Recognized by Those Who Know It Best
The Top Workplaces program is based entirely on employee feedback gathered through a third-party survey measuring engagement, culture, and leadership. Comments from Tanque Verde team members emphasized the supportive environment, creative freedom, and sense of belonging that define life at the Ranch.
Employees shared that "management is always improving the quality of life," describing Tanque Verde Ranch as "not just another job but a career I can be proud of." Others highlighted the teamwork and inclusivity that make every day rewarding, noting a "great sense of community between staff" and "leadership that listens and recognizes great work."
Guests Feel the Difference
This spirit of teamwork and care extends beyond the staff to every guest who visits the Ranch. Recent guest feedback mirrors the same themes of connection and warmth that earned Tanque Verde its Top Workplace distinction.
One guest shared, "You can't train the kind of service your team members exemplify — it's innate and purposeful. There's a reason you were voted best place to work, and it shows."
From trail rides led by passionate wranglers to heartfelt service in the dining room, guests consistently remark that the Tanque Verde team makes them feel like part of the family—proof that an engaged, happy team leads to an extraordinary guest experience.
A People-First Philosophy
Tanque Verde Ranch is proudly managed by Cote Hospitality, a company known for creating environments where team members can thrive.
"This achievement reflects the exceptional culture our team has built together—one rooted in collaboration, respect, and a shared commitment to excellence at the Ranch," said Agnelo Fernandes, CEO of Cote Hospitality. "At Cote Hospitality, we believe in enriching lives and know that great guest experiences start with great team member care, and Tanque Verde Ranch exemplifies this every day."
Merrick Dresnin, Chief People Services Officer at Cote Hospitality, added:
"What makes Tanque Verde Ranch special isn't just the setting — it's the people who bring it to life every day. ‘People First' isn't just what we say — it's who we are, and this recognition at the Ranch proves that to be true."
Continuing a Tradition of Excellence
From sunrise trail rides across the Sonoran Desert to cowboy cookouts under star-filled skies, Tanque Verde Ranch continues to thrive because of the dedicated team behind every moment. Being named a Top Workplace in both Tucson and Arizona for the second year in a row is not only a recognition of the Ranch's people-first culture—it's a celebration of the passion and pride that make Tanque Verde Ranch one of the most remarkable places to work and visit in the Southwest.