March 2025 Luncheon with Mecklenburg County Manager Dena Diorio
Submitted by Dianne Jones, JLL
At CREW Charlotte’s March Luncheon, Dena Diorio, the first woman to serve as Mecklenburg County Manager, shared her journey and insights and it happened to be Women’s History Month! Reflecting on her 18-year career here in the Queen City, Dena described her path from Chief Financial Officer to County Manager, overcoming odds to secure the position despite initial preference for external candidates.
As County Manager, she focused on improving communication, transparency, and accountability while restoring public trust. Dena highlighted Mecklenburg County’s growth, now home to 1.2 million residents with a $2.5 billion budget. She recounted major challenges faced during her tenure, including the 2008 financial crisis, a 2017 ransomware attack, and the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizing the county’s resilience and adaptability. Among her proudest achievements, Dena cited the implementation of the Meck 3-k program for early childhood education and the strategic use of ARP funds to support community initiatives.
As she approaches retirement in June, she stressed the importance of addressing economic challenges and poverty, particularly among women. She offered leadership advice, emphasizing the value of surrounding oneself with a diverse, invested team and maintaining authenticity while learning from admired leaders. Dena Diorio’s legacy will endure in Charlotte through her unwavering commitment to community well-being and equity throughout her impactful career.