
Chris Batz
President
Chris Batz is the President of The Lion Group and brings 12 years to Legal & Executive Search.
“I was connecting people before I knew I could get paid for it.”
Clients and Candidates say “I am genuine, warm and curious.”
He is a business development professional & entrepreneur in the executive search industry with a background in public accounting and a mind for big picture strategic thinking & marketing. He is a connector and catalyst for client’s goals.
What should you expect working with Chris?
“I am a detailed type A, patient, trustworthy advocate. I am a high-level strategic thinker, but I also shift to the nitty-gritty details. I live outside the box. I think big. I deliver in the present but live in the future. I am bold and open doors for people who may not have the time or want to. You can expect a prompt honest service.”
I am from St Louis, raised in South Florida and finished my two accounting degrees in Indiana. My wife, daughter, son and pug call Kansas City home since 2011.
As a family, we value courage, kindness, being connected and celebration.
Fun Facts:
My vice is books. I am a life long learner and tend to read a stack of books at once. I study businesses and am a long-term investor of publicly traded companies.
I’m an ENTP.

Deni Gustafson
Executive Recruiter
Pennsylvania born and bred, I moved to Kansas City in 2009 and quickly fell in love with Midwest charm and warmth. Whether watching a Royals game at the “K” or having a picnic at Loose Park, this place has become home. I came to The Lion Group with a strong background in administration and customer service and I’ve used those skills as I serve clients and candidates as an Executive Recruiter.
Recruiting combines my passion for people and their stories with my love of details. Each person that I work with will find me with a listening ear, integrous heart, and attention to what benefits you in your professional and personal goals. Whether a corporation or law firm, I love to work with attorneys, HR Professionals, EAs, and compliance professionals as they make the leap to a new position.
Fun Facts:
Chick-Fil-A is my love language. All day, every day (except Sunday).
I’m an aunt to one niece and one nephew who also live in KC and am convinced it’s the best title in the world!
At nearly 6 feet tall, I did indeed play basketball…for one season and I was terrible.
Creating art and beauty in my surroundings is wildly important to me!

Zac Ferren
Executive Recruiter
Raised in an entrepreneur’s household with my 3 brothers. Competition & determination is part of my DNA. Growing up in Kansas City, I have strong opinions on where to find the best BBQ as well who the best QB in the league is. I came to The Lion Group with a strong background in sales and talent acquisition and enjoyed my previous roles focused on serving executives in the healthcare market.
I love the hunt when it comes to recruiting. Learning what a client is looking for and then going into the market and finding the top talent to meet their needs is a thrill. I also enjoy speaking with folks about their career objectives and bringing value and insight on how they might reach those.
Fun Facts:
I am married to a neuro trauma researcher and yes, she uses a lot of big words.
Most Wednesday nights you will find me at our Church’s Youth group refereeing (and most of the time playing) dodge ball as well as mentoring a group of 6th-8th grade boys.
I love to camp and travel, my favorite places are Tucson, AZ & Portland, OR.