The City of Cayce is proud to announce the hiring of Johnny Dillard as its new Public Works Director, bringing with him more than two decades of military service and extensive experience in public service, horticulture, and environmental management.

A native of Murphy, North Carolina, Dillard joined the United States Navy immediately after high school, turning down a scholarship to Western Carolina University to serve his country. During his distinguished 20-year naval career, he earned two Navy Achievement Medals, three Navy Commendation Medals, numerous Desert Storm War Medals, and completed over six deployments aboard several aircraft carriers.

Following his retirement from the Navy in 2001, the same year he earned his degree in Horticulture from Tidewater Community College, Dillard launched and successfully operated a landscaping business for 12 years before selling it. He later served as Grounds Manager for the Main Campus at Georgia College and State University and then advanced to Assistant Director of Parks and Sanitation for the Town of Lexington, further strengthening his leadership experience in municipal operations.

Dillard has continued to build his professional credentials through advanced horticulture studies at the University of Georgia and environmental coursework at Georgia College and State University. He holds multiple industry certifications, including ISA Certified Arborist with Tree Risk Assessment Qualification, Backflow Qualification, Turfgrass Manager Certification, Pesticide Applicator’s License, and Certified Horticulture Professional. He also served on the Board of Directors for the South Carolina Green Industry Association.

“Johnny brings an exceptional combination of military discipline, technical expertise, and hands-on municipal leadership to our Public Works Department,” exclaimed Cayce City Manager, Michael Conley. “His proven record of service, commitment to professional excellence, and passion for community enhancement make him the ideal choice to lead our public works operations into the future. We are excited to welcome him to our team.”

As Public Works Director, Dillard will oversee the City’s parks, sanitation, and garage maintenance services.