Matthews gets a new leader atop town government. She’s a familiar face
A familiar face will lead Matthews as its new town manager.
The southeast Mecklenburg community’s Board of Commissioners voted Monday to promote Melia James, an assistant town manager since 2022, to the role.
Matthews Mayor John Higdon described James as “a proven leader with the vision and experience to guide Matthews forward.”
“Her leadership, integrity, and collaborative approach will continue to serve our residents and staff well as she becomes Town Manager,” Higdon said in a statement.
James called her promotion a “privilege.”
“I am excited to step into this position at such an important time for Matthews. Together with our staff and elected leaders, I look forward to advancing strategic priorities and building on the strong foundation we have together,” she said in a statement.
Before going to Matthews, James previously worked for the city of Charlotte as a Airport Budget and Financial Services manager, Strategy and Budget analyst and Human Resources manager, according to the town’s statement.
She succeeds Becky Hawke, who left Matthews in June to become city manager of Wilmington. Former Charlotte city manager Curt Walton led Matthews on an interim basis following Hawke’s departure.
