This article originally appeared in the September 2025 print edition of the Charlotte Business Journal. You can read the story online here (subscription required) or continue below. This article has been shared with the permission of the Journal.
A Q&A with our Central Carolinas commercial banking team for the Charlotte Business Journal! We talked to the team about what makes Oakworth’s client experience unique– here’s what they have to say:
What inspired Oakworth to expand into Charlotte—and how are you shaping the commercial banking experience here?
PATRICK: Oakworth Capital Bank was founded in 2008 with a clear purpose: to help people succeed. We opened our Charlotte office in SouthPark in 2023 because the people and businesses of this area align perfectly with that mission. The market has an energy and entrepreneurial spirit that made it a natural place for Oakworth to grow.
Our model combines big-bank expertise with the nimbleness of a boutique institution. Each client works with a dedicated advisor who serves as a single point of contact across commercial banking and private banking, wealth management and advisory services. It’s a seamless, integrated approach that’s unique in this market.
BOB: In Charlotte, most of our competition comes from very large institutions. These institutions often move slowly and require clients to fit into rigid boxes. We’re smaller, quicker to move, and able to customize solutions. In a city that already has plenty of big-bank options, that flexibility stands out.
What unique challenges do small business owners face—and how do you tailor solutions?
BOB: The biggest hurdle for closely held businesses is access to capital. Many banks want every company to fit a certain structure and that doesn’t work for all businesses. We don’t work that way— instead, we build structures around the business itself.
PATRICK: I agree. Closely held business owners want more than a transaction; they want a partnership. At Oakworth, every relationship opportunity is evaluated on its own merits. We focus on customization. Not everyone is the same, and not every solution should be. We can deliver customized solutions—whether that’s growth capital, an acquisition loan, or a dividend recapitalization.
Charlotte is one of the nation’s leading financial centers. In such a competitive landscape, what sets Oakworth apart?
PATRICK: Our integrated model is a big differentiator. At Oakworth, commercial banking, private banking, and wealth management all roll up under one team. Clients don’t have to retell their story multiple times. Everyone on our team already knows their story, and we can provide a seamless, coordinated experience where every player understands the client’s landscape and can put forth solutions that make the most sense for the client. That is rare in this market.
BOB: I’ve had clients tell me directly, “If you can execute in Charlotte, nothing will stop you, because this market needs a bank like yours.” That feedback reinforces what Patrick said—our model isn’t just talk. It’s distinctive, and clients recognize it.
Could you share an example of how you’ve been creative in helping clients navigate complex needs?
BOB: Recently, we worked with a highly leveraged company. By providing a solution with a credit enhancement, we delivered something that made sense for both the client and the bank—it was creative and exactly the kind of flexibility that sets us apart.
PATRICK: We regularly execute on complex transactions—operating lines of credit, M&A financing, specialty lending, dividend recapitalizations, equipment finance, etc.. It’s important for people to know that unlike many banks in our size range, we are a financial institution that delivers full C&I solutions.
How do you leverage Oakworth’s broader resources to add value to clients?
PATRICK: We always start with a client’s goals. If the objective is transitioning a business to the next generation, we bring in our Wealth and Advisory partners. If the goal is to improve day-to-day efficiency, our Treasury team steps in to optimize working capital and controls.
BOB: Having those resources at the table means we’re not just financing companies; we’re helping them run more effectively today while also planning for the future—we’re helping them succeed. Beyond banking, clients also benefit from direct access to our investment team. That level of access provides market insights straight from the decision makers, and clients consistently tell us how valuable those conversations are.
Looking ahead, how is Oakworth positioned for Charlotte’s growth?
PATRICK: Charlotte is one of the fastest growing cities in the country. The business community is expanding and becoming more complex. Oakworth is positioned to grow alongside it. We’re broadening our products and services, deepening our expertise, and staying nimble. As our clients grow, we grow with them. We’re positioned to serve businesses as they evolve.
BOB: With things moving so fast, I lean heavily on the insights from our investment team. Their perspective on economic trends helps us prepare clients for whatever the market brings.
What makes an ideal Oakworth client—and a successful relationship?
BOB: I value clients who want to strategize and plan for their future. Clients who call before making major decisions. It’s about strategy and partnership,
not just transactions. That’s where the relationship becomes a true partnership.
PATRICK: I agree. Clients who want a collaborative partnership and team approach, across all disciplines, see
the greatest benefit. That’s the ideal Oakworth client.
What’s your message to Charlotte businesses considering a new banking partner?
BOB: If you’re unsure about your current banking partnership, there’s a reason. Contact us—we make transitions smooth and coordinated. You will be blown away by our service and by our ability to add value.
PATRICK: Many clients think transitioning banks will be painful, but our experience proves otherwise. Transitions with Oakworth have been seamless, thanks to the strength of our team. Don’t stay in a relationship that isn’t working.
Oakworth Capital Bank is a leading financial institution helping professionals, closely held businesses, and families with generational wealth achieve their goals, maintaining a Net Promoter Score (NPS) of 94 and a 95% client retention rate. Read more about how Oakworth can help you succeed here.
