This episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast is presented by Trinity Episcopal School, marking 25 years of creating scholars, nurturing spirituality and embracing diversity in Charlotte's center city. Trinity offers a unique K-8 curriculum with a focus on critical thinking, curiosity about the world around us, and service to the community. Learn more about the admission process for the 2025-26 school year and register for an open house at TESCharlotte.org.
In 2019, Melissa Sutherland made a dramatic career shift, leaving her role as a bank executive at Bank of America to join Best Impressions Caterers as the company’s chief operating and financial officer. Her move from a global financial institution to a small catering business offered her the chance to take her expertise to a new industry, she says, helping the company expand from a single location in Charlotte to three, including Raleigh and Charleston.
But just as she was settling into her new role, the Covid pandemic hit.
Facing a sudden halt in operations, Sutherland and her team pivoted to launch “Table & Twine,” a home delivery service that helped keep staff employed and kitchens running during the shutdowns. Today, Table & Twine remains a successful arm of Combined Caterers, showing how innovation during a crisis can create lasting change.
In this episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast, Sutherland discusses:
What it was like canceling on weddings when Covid first hit.
Challenges of navigating a small business through the pandemic.
How she balances the operational aspects with financial oversight of her role.
The differences among the Charlotte, Raleigh and Charleston markets.
Her relationship with Hugh McColl, former CEO and president of Bank of America, and what she’s learned about leadership.
Her experience as co-founder and chair of the State Highway Patrol Foundation, which provides financial support for officers in need.
What advice she would give her younger self.
Sutherland received The Ledger’s 40 Over 40 Award in 2024.
This podcast episode is part of a series highlighting winners of The Ledger’s 40 Over 40 awards, which honor and celebrate often unheralded people over the age of 40 who are making important contributions to Charlotte. It’s hosted by Steve Dunn of Miles Mediation and Arbitration.
Find out more about the 40 Over 40 awards by going to Ledger40over40.com.
We hope you enjoy the conversation with Melissa Sutherland.
The Charlotte Ledger Podcast is produced by Lindsey Banks.
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Catering to change, with Melissa Sutherland of Best Impressions Caterers