PRINCIPAL AND CEO

Ridgewells CATERING

Susan Lacz is an innovative leader, celebrated entrepreneur, and highly sought-after speaker in the catering and special events industry. As Principal and Chief Executive Officer of Ridgewells Catering, a premier catering company based in Bethesda, Maryland, Susan has redefined excellence in the business, setting a gold standard for creativity and service in the region.

A founding member and past president of Elite Catering and Event Professionals (ECEP), Susan has been instrumental in establishing a global network of top-tier caterers. This influential organization fosters collaboration and advocates for the advancement of the industry worldwide, a vision Susan has championed throughout her career.

Susan’s dedication to community engagement is exemplified through her active service on the Board of Directors for the Greater Washington Board of Trade, Maryland Chamber of Commerce, and Catholic Business Network of Washington, DC. Her longstanding contributions also include her work as a former board member and devoted alumna of Marymount University, where she chaired the university’s Capital Campaign, securing an impressive $40 million. She has further demonstrated her commitment to shaping future leaders by chairing Junior Achievement of Greater Washington’s Hall of Fame Gala in both 2013 and 2019.

Her affiliations extend to elite professional organizations, including YPO Gold, YPO Global, and The Economic Club of Washington, DC, where she connects with influential leaders to drive meaningful impact across industries.

Susan’s distinguished career has earned her numerous accolades, including the Washington Business Journal’s Women Who Mean Business award and consecutive placements on their Power 100 list, recognizing her as one of the region’s most influential leaders. A finalist for the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Greater Washington Award, Susan was recently honored as Marymount University Alumnae of the Year for her outstanding contributions to both her alma mater and the wider community.

Residing in Chevy Chase, Maryland, Susan is the proud mother of two sons and continues to inspire through her visionary leadership and dedication to making a lasting difference in business and beyond.