CLAREMONT, N.H. – The City of Claremont is pleased to announce the selection of Elizabeth Ferland as its next city manager, bringing 28 years of municipal leadership experience in New Hampshire.
Ferland currently serves as city manager of Keene, a position she has held for nine years. Previously, she served as city manager in Franklin for nine years, town administrator in Plymouth for eight years, and town administrator in Bristol for two years.
With a background in accounting and municipal finance, Ferland brings extensive experience in fiscal management, economic development, infrastructure investment, labor relations, and organizational leadership. Throughout her career, she has emphasized fiscal responsibility, collaborative and creative problem solving, the strategic use of technology to improve municipal services, and long-term community sustainability.
In Keene, Ferland oversees an organization of more than 300 employees and an annual operating budget exceeding $80 million. Her leadership has included major infrastructure and renewable energy initiatives, including a five-megawatt, municipally owned solar project currently under construction at Keene Municipal Airport. During her tenure, Keene also launched one of New Hampshire’s first municipal community power programs and introduced “Keene in Focus,” a public communication initiative designed to increase transparency and community engagement. During her tenure in Franklin, Ferland helped advance community revitalization through partnerships and creative funding strategies, including the redevelopment of the former Bessie Rowell School into a community resource and the development of the Franklin Whitewater Park.
“Claremont is a community with a proud history, a strong sense of identity, and tremendous potential,” said Ferland. “I am honored to have been selected as Claremont’s next city manager. With strong ties to the community, this opportunity is especially meaningful to me. I look forward to working collaboratively with the city council, employees, residents, and businesses to build on the progress already underway, address challenges creatively, and plan responsibly for Claremont’s future.”
“The city council is confident that Elizabeth’s experience, leadership, and dedication to public service make her an excellent choice for Claremont. We are excited to welcome her and look forward to working together as we move our city forward,” said Mayor Dale Girard on behalf of the Claremont City Council.
Ferland is expected to begin her new role in late February 2027, following a 90-day notice period with the City of Keene to support an orderly leadership transition.