Former Guilford County Facilities Director Dan Durham has left Guilford County government and taken a job as the assistant director for Utilities Services at East Carolina University in Greenville, North Carolina. 

Durham, who was hired by the county in August 2018, oversaw a large number of major capital projects during his three years-plus with the county – including a new Emergency Services maintenance center, a new animal shelter and a new mental health center.

Durham’s departure took place in the same way his arrival and his tenure with the county did – very quietly. 

Durham was very quiet when speaking.  Many times, when he addressed the Board of Commissioners in meetings or work sessions, he was asked to speak up or stand closer to the microphone.

Before coming to Guilford County,  Durham worked in facility operations at UNC-Greensboro.

In a county employee newsletter in 2018, shortly after taking the job with Guilford County, Durham offered his philosophy regarding the facilities business.

“You have to be flexible and willing to do whatever it takes,” he said. “That often involves problem-solving to ensure you meet the community needs.”

He also said that honesty and integrity mean a great deal in his line of work.

 “It all starts with integrity,” he said.  “This should be expected at all levels, internal and external, and at the personal, staff, and organizational level.”

Though Durham didn’t seem to enjoy public speaking very much, he did enjoy things like traveling, NC State sports, bass fishing and hiking. He told fellow count workers that his favorite spot was Hanging Rock State Park.

When not overseeing massive multi-million-dollar construction jobs for the county, he engaged in his beloved hobby – beekeeping.

 

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