Our Team

Ioannis Theodorou was born the United States and as an infant moved to Greece, the homeland of his father. His passion for food and paréa, or casual partying and entertainment, as well as an appreciation for old world quality service, and impeccable taste in fine dining are all part of the fabric of Mediterranean culture that has surrounded him throughout his life.

Early on, Ioannis began his culinary career as a restaurateur with the Stergiopoulos Family, a knowned dynasty of Greek cuisine in Indianapolis, Indiana. He also gained experience with the iconic Greektown of Chicago, the dining and nightlife district on the Near West Side of the City. Following his time in the Midwest, Ioannis studied at Wake Technical College in the AAS program of the Culinary Arts, and has worked in the Raleigh food and beverage industry since 2003. With nearly 15 years restaurant and catering sales in the Triangle, Ioannis served 8 years with LM Restaurants, 7 years with Landry’s Corporation, and is excited to bring his talent and drive to join the team at City Club Raleigh. 

Ioannis’ number one goal is always guest satisfaction. He holds true to a personal commitment to quality service and attention to detail that at every event. Among Ioannis’ strengths is the ability to deliver top-notch experiences that exude the spirit of those he serves. His passion for service can be summed up as follows: “Serving good food and seeing humanity happy is my life.” Ioannis is married and is raising three beautiful children in Raleigh.

From Greenspring Valley, Maryland, Ahmed found his passion for the hospitality industry when he worked as a bartender while studying Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at University of Maryland, Baltimore County. The attention to detail needed in his field of study translated into many awards and recognitions for his beverage programs and bar knowledge. 

Running one of the top wine cellars and beverage programs in Baltimore, at an award-winning farm-to-table restaurant, led Ahmed to hosting cocktail classes, wine dinners and events of all sorts. It was during his tenure there that his passion and ability to host events evolved. 

Through his more than 15 years in the hospitality industry he has served as bartender, Beverage Director and General Manager of some of the top restaurants in Baltimore making him a multifaceted and dynamic Private Events Director with a keen eye for the details that make for an amazing experience. 

He truly enjoys providing his guests with an unforgettable event and finds satisfaction in knowing that they have been well taken care of. When not at work, Ahmed likes to enjoy time with his husband, tend to his vegetable garden, cook, paint and take his dog, Crockett, on hikes.

Hailing from Chicago, Illnois, Patrick Ewald brings over 8 years of hospitality to City Club Raleigh. A certified sommelier, Patrick is passionate about providing exceptional wine and food service to our Members. He leads, inspires and educates our employee partners to provide outstanding service and create magic moments for our Members. Whether he is hosting as the sommelier at our Wine Tastings, co-hosting foodie events or crafting an innovative cocktail menu, Patrick strives to elevate the Member experience at the Club. 

On his spare time, Patrick forages for local produce and enjoys carpentering.