City of Wilmington Announces Dennis K. LaCaria as Chief of Staff

Published on October 06, 2025

The City of Wilmington is pleased to welcome Dennis LaCaria as its new Chief of Staff, effective October 6. In this role, LaCaria will lead high-priority initiatives, foster collaboration across departments, and translate strategic vision into measurable results, improving government performance and ensuring high-quality service delivery to Wilmington residents.

LaCaria brings more than 20 years of executive leadership in local government and public education. As Executive Director of Facilities Management for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, he secured the state’s largest school bond referendum at $2.5 billion, obtained an additional $26.5 million in local funding, and managed a $9 billion portfolio of physical assets. He has also served as Senior Assistant to the County Manager in Mecklenburg County, where he advanced major initiatives in capital planning, affordable housing, and health and human services.

“Dennis has a tremendous track record of successful on-time and on-budget project delivery, as well as being able to step up in new ways to deliver organizational initiatives and effectively bring divergent groups together. He has also earned respect and buy-in from elected officials, community groups, and employees at all levels every step of the way,” said City Manager Becky Hawke. “Wilmington is fortunate to be gaining his leadership, and I look forward to working with him closely as we identify opportunities to improve our organization's service delivery to the community.”

“I am incredibly excited about the opportunity to join the team at the City of Wilmington! I have been a frequent visitor, going back to the 1980s, and have always felt a strong affinity for Wilmington. There is so much to love about this area, including its natural environment, the food scene, the recreational activities, and the welcoming people. I look forward to working alongside my new colleagues to deliver on our promises, in service to all members of our community, whether visiting for a day or making Wilmington their home, as I am thrilled to do!” LaCaria said.

LaCaria holds a Six Sigma certificate from NC State University, a certificate in Educational Facilities Planning from San Diego State University, and has completed UNC-Chapel Hill’s Principal’s Executive Program. He also brings a strong commitment to community service, having previously served on the Board of Directors for Supportive Housing Communities and on the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Continuum of Care Governing Board.