William Dillard II

William Dillard II (born 1942) is an American businessman and the chairman and CEO of Dillard's, Inc., a department store chain based in Little Rock, Arkansas. He is the son of William T. Dillard, who founded the company in 1938.

Dillard II graduated from the University of Arkansas in 1964 with a degree in business administration. He joined the family business in 1965 and was named president in 1972. He became CEO in 1984 and chairman in 1998.

Under Dillard II's leadership, Dillard's has grown from a small chain of six stores to a major department store retailer with over 300 stores in 29 states. The company has also expanded into other retail businesses, including Dillard's Home, Dillard's Clearance Centers, and Dillard's Direct.

Dillard II is a member of the board of directors of the National Retail Federation and the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce. He is also a trustee of the University of Arkansas and the Arkansas Children's Hospital.

Dillard II has been married to his wife, Barbara, since 1965. They have two children, William III and Christy.

In 2015, Dillard II was inducted into the Arkansas Business Hall of Fame. He was also named one of the 100 Most Influential Business Leaders in the World by Fortune magazine.

Dillard II is a major philanthropist. He has donated millions of dollars to the University of Arkansas, the Arkansas Children's Hospital, and other charities. He is also a supporter of the arts and education.

William Dillard II is a successful businessman and a major philanthropist. He has made significant contributions to the retail industry and to the state of Arkansas.