June 2026
The Town of Gorham, New Hampshire is seeking a dedicated, experienced, and community-oriented law enforcement leader to serve as its next Chief of Police. The position is anticipated to be filled in September 2026. This is an excellent opportunity for an advanced professional to lead a forward-thinking department in a vibrant Northern New England community nestled in the White Mountains.
About Gorham, NH
Known for its breathtaking mountains views and pristine rivers, prime access to top-tier hiking and skiing, as well as small-town charm, Gorham is a welcoming community of approximately 2,700 year-round residents in the heart of the White Mountains. With abundant outdoor recreation opportunities and a strong tourism economy, Gorham offers an exceptional quality of life.
As an officially designated Appalachian Trail Community and a major destination for OHRV/ATV riders who utilize direct trail access from local lodging, Gorham serves as the premier “base camp” and service hub for the northern White Mountains. During the peak summer and foliage seasons, the town’s daily population more than doubles, frequently swelling to over 6,000 people in town on any given day.
Department and Position Overview
The department manages the unique public safety needs of a bustling, high-volume resort community alongside its close-knit resident population. The Gorham Police Department is a community-oriented agency committed to fair, proactive policing and building strong relationships with residents and visitors alike. The department consists of 7 full-time sworn officers and operates a 24/7 dispatch center staffed by 4 full-time dispatchers and several per-diem dispatchers. The Chief serves as the department head and is responsible for overall leadership, operations, and the effective management of both police services and the vital communications/dispatch function.
Reporting to the Town Manager, the Chief of Police provides strategic and operational leadership to ensure the delivery of professional, responsive, and community-focused public safety services. This hands-on leadership role requires a collaborative leader who excels in team development, community engagement, and efficient resource management in a small-town environment with significant seasonal demands.
Key Responsibilities
· Provide visionary leadership and direct supervision of all department personnel, including sworn officers and dispatch staff.
· Oversee daily operations, personnel management, training, and professional development.
· Foster and maintain a strong community-oriented policing philosophy that builds trust and partnerships with residents, businesses, and visitors.
· Manage the 24/7 dispatch/communications center to ensure reliable emergency response capabilities for both residents and the seasonal tourist influx.
· Develop and administer the department budget, pursue grant opportunities, and ensure fiscal responsibility.
· Enforce state laws and local ordinances while developing policies, procedures, and programs that reflect modern best practices.
· Coordinate with regional law enforcement agencies, mutual aid partners, fire, EMS, and emergency management.
· Serve as a key advisor to Town officials on public safety matters.
· Promote transparency, accountability, and the highest standards of ethical conduct.
Minimum Qualifications
· Certification: Current New Hampshire Police Officer certification (or the ability to obtain certification through the New Hampshire Police Standards and Training Council within 90 days of hire).
· Experience: Minimum of 10 years of progressively responsible law enforcement experience, including at least 3 years in a supervisory or command-level role.
· Valid driver’s license and successful completion of a comprehensive background investigation.
· Demonstrated commitment to community policing, integrity, sound judgment, and ethical leadership.
Preferred Qualifications
· Bachelor’s degree or higher in criminal justice, public administration, or a related field (strongly preferred, though substantial equivalent experience and qualifications will be considered).
· Experience leading or managing a small to mid-sized police department, including oversight of communications/dispatch operations.
· Knowledge of municipal budgeting, grant writing, policy development, and personnel administration.
· Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders.
Compensation and Benefits
Compensation is commensurate with qualifications and experience. The Town of Gorham offers a competitive benefits package for this full-time salaried administrative position.
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume, and any relevant certifications or documentation to Town Manager Joseph Hemmings, jhemmings@gorhamnh.gov.
The Town intends to finalize the hiring process for a September 2026 start date. Applications will be reviewed until the position is filled.
The Town of Gorham is an Equal Opportunity Employer and welcomes applications from all qualified individuals.
This leadership role offers a unique chance to make a meaningful impact in a scenic, active community that values its public safety professionals. If you are a collaborative leader passionate about community-oriented policing, excited to partner with new municipal leadership, and ready to guide a dedicated team through a dynamic calendar of bustling recreation seasons, we encourage you to apply.