A Q&A with our Central Carolinas wealth and private banking leaders for the Charlotte Business Journal! We talked to the team about what makes Oakworth’s client experience special – here’s what they have to say.
Can you share about Oakworth’s journey to the Central Carolinas and your financial services philosophy?
Alice Womack: Oakworth Capital Bank was founded in 2008 and opened its Central Carolinas office in October of 2023 in South Park. Our approach begins with a dedicated team of professionals that has an unwavering commitment to our core values – golden rule, character, innovative and creative spirit, professionalism and work ethic.
Within the team is one dedicated advisor that plays “quarterback” to all our client’s financial needs—whether banking, wealth or advisory services. We combine this concierge service with comprehensive and robust technology platforms to create the ideal client experience.
For instance, clients receive direct access to their advisors, personalized onboarding and customized technology experience.
By integrating the right people, the right technology and the right solutions, we develop deeper, more responsive relationships. The combination is working, as evidenced by Oakworth’s 94 Net Promoter Score (NPS), 95% client retention rate and 91% associate retention rate.
Our clients—business owners, professionals and individuals and families with generational wealth— are busy people, with busy lives. We add value by managing their financial complexities. When they succeed, we succeed.
How does Oakworth bridge business and family generational lifecycles?
Laura Snead: Oakworth serves high-net- worth business owners, individuals and families by integrating financial services across the generational lifecycle. We understand that wealth is not just about numbers—it starts with goals and values, and considers legacy, responsibility and continuity. We provide a holistic approach, guiding clients at every stage of their financial journey.
For business owners, our commercial advisors assist in managing financial complexities as they grow their companies. As they prepare for an exit, our private wealth team steps in to navigate succession planning, liquidity strategies, estate planning, philanthropic goals and asset preservation. We ensure a smooth transition by addressing personal financial needs along the journey.
We recognize that wealth transitions are not just financial—they are deeply personal. That is why we engage not just with our clients, but also with their families, outside counsel and CPAs. We help clients through the challenges of passing down wealth across generations. Many of our clients are balancing the financial needs of both aging parents and children.
Our advisors provide thoughtful guidance, helping families communicate about wealth, prepare for inheritance, and integrate external experts when needed. By fostering strong relationships and proactive planning, Oakworth ensures that wealth is preserved and optimized for generations to come.
How is Oakworth addressing complex financial needs including estate, trust and fiduciary services?
David Mack: Having an advisor who can understand what is most important to you and your family is a crucial part of being financially successful. That is why Oakworth’s services are built on a foundation of integrity, personalized service and deep expertise in navigating complex financial and estate matters.
We provide a broad suite of solutions including investment management, trustee services and estate administration. We ensure that clients’ wishes are honored, and assets are managed with precision.
Whether acting as a full discretionary trustee or providing directed trust services, we work closely with families, businesses and their advisors.
Our estate administration services include asset distribution and tax obligations, ensuring a smooth transition across generations. Plus, we manage assets such as timberland, real estate and closely held business interests.
Supporting day-to-day needs, such as coordinating activities of other trusted advisors and overseeing governing documents, is designed to make our clients’ financial lives easier.
How do you integrate advisory services into your client relationships?
Sara Jean Veatch: We believe that effective delivery of advisory services such as financial planning starts with listening.
Clients may know they want to secure their family’s future, protect their business or ensure a smooth wealth transition—but they may not know the best path forward. That is when we show them options and help map out their journey, step-by-step.
By leading with listening, we uncover the deeper concerns and goals that drive our clients’ decisions. Whether it is navigating complex family dynamics or structuring a corporate trustee service, we help them understand their options and implement tailored solutions. Our approach is not just about technical expertise—it is about building trust and clarity.
What sets us apart is our ability to integrate all aspects of financial planning into a cohesive strategy. We do not provide generic advice; we craft personalized solutions that fit seamlessly into a client’s long-term vision. From business owners preparing for an exit to families managing generational wealth, we guide our clients through every stage with expert insight and compassionate support. At Oakworth, we want to help our clients fully understand their current financial picture and visualize where they want to be in the future.
What’s the one word that best describes Oakworth’s client experience?
Alice: Client-Centered
Laura: Intentional
David: Attentive
Sara Jean: Altruistic
Read more about how Oakworth can help you succeed here.
To read the full article as it appears in the Charlotte Business Journal below.
