Adams named Cayce’s deputy city manager

Kendall P. Adams has been named deputy city manager in Cayce, city officials announced Tuesday, Nov. 10.

Adams brings an extensive background in military leadership, law enforcement and municipal administration to the position, according to a news release. A retired U.S. Army lieutenant colonel, Adams offers decades of experience managing complex operations, leading multidisciplinary teams, coordinating resources and developing strategic plans.

Officials say Adams’ background in military and local government service provides a strong foundation for supporting the city’s daily operations, advancing organizational priorities and helping ensure the effective delivery of services to the Cayce community.

Adams previously served as assistant city administrator for the city of Forest Acres, where he provided leadership in municipal operations, logistics and strategic planning.

“Having transitioned from military service into local government, he brings a valuable understanding of how disciplined operational management, collaboration and long-term planning can support a municipality’s continued growth and success,” the city of Cayce said in its release.

During his military career, Adams held leadership assignments in the United States and abroad, including Belgium, Germany, Iraq and Japan. Commissioned as an Army officer in 2001 through the University of South Carolina ROTC program, he served in multiple leadership positions, including company commander, operations officer, support operations officer, executive officer and joint logistics plans officer.

His responsibilities included overseeing personnel and resources, coordinating complex operations and supporting military and federal law enforcement missions. He also completed multiple deployments in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

City officials said these experiences developed the leadership, decision-making and organizational management skills essential to municipal administration.

“I am excited to welcome Kendall Adams to the city of Cayce leadership team. Kendall brings an exceptional combination of military leadership, public safety and municipal management experience, along with a genuine commitment to public service,” City Manager Michael Conley said in the release. “His background in leading complex operations, developing people and bringing teams together will be a tremendous asset to our organization. As we continue to grow and work toward our priorities, I am confident Kendall will play an important role in strengthening our operations, supporting our employees and delivering the high level of service our residents deserve. I look forward to working alongside him as we continue building a stronger Team Cayce.”

Adams began his public service career with the U.S. Marine Corps before serving with the Forest Acres Police Department while continuing his military service in the South Carolina Army National Guard. Following his retirement from the U.S. Army, he returned to Forest Acres, where he initially joined the city through an internship before advancing to the role of assistant city administrator.

“His career reflects a longstanding commitment to public service and a practical understanding of the responsibilities and challenges facing local government,” the release says.

His military service has been recognized with numerous honors, including the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal, Defense Meritorious Service Medal and multiple Meritorious Service Medals and commendations.

A South Carolina native, Adams grew up in Elgin, Camden and Forest Acres and graduated from A.C. Flora High School. He holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of South Carolina and a master’s degree in international relations and interdisciplinary studies from the University of Oklahoma.

“As deputy city manager, Adams will bring together his experience in strategic planning, operational oversight, resource management and public service to support the city’s leadership and strengthen the organization’s ability to meet the needs of its residents,” the release says.

Kendall is married to Shannon L. Adams, and they have two daughters, Kyndal and Landyn. The family resides in Columbia.

“The city of Cayce looks forward to the leadership and experience Adams will bring to the organization as it continues working to build a strong, responsive and thriving community,” according to the release.