Under the guidance of the management duo, the Royals were promoted to Division 1 after finishing as runners-up to Brighton & Hove Albion in the 2001–02 season. Pardew resigned in September 2003 and Dillon stepped in as the caretaker manager, until Steve Coppell was appointed in October 2003. At this point Dillon reverted to his role as the number two.
Under the leadership of its top executives, the Royals were promoted to Division 1 after finishing second to Brighton & Hove Albion in the 2001–02 season. Pardew left in September 2003 and Dillon took over temporarily until Steve Coppell was hired in October 2003. Subsequently, Dillon returned to his role as assistant manager.