John Pedersen is the former City Manager of Myrtle Beach, serving in the role from 2014 until his retirement in 2021. A native of Seaford, Delaware, he earned a bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Delaware and a Master of Public Administration from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Pedersen began his career in local government with the City of Durham, North Carolina, in 1977, eventually rising to Assistant City Manager before joining the City of Myrtle Beach in 2002. Throughout his tenure, he played a key role in the city’s growth, with a strong focus on sports tourism and community development. He was appointed City Manager in 2014 following the retirement of longtime manager Tom Leath.

Pedersen remains involved with the city’s track and field events and holds the distinction of shooting the first air ball at the Myrtle Beach Sports Center’s dedication in 2014. He has been married to his wife, Brenda, for nearly 39 years and has two grown daughters, Jennifer and Kristyn, along with three grandchildren.