The information contained in this article is not intended as legal advice and may no longer be accurate due to changes in the law. Consult NHMA's legal services or your municipal attorney.
Strong, effective leadership is the foundation of successful communities. In New Hampshire, Town Administrators, Town Managers, and City Managers play a vital role in ensuring the smooth operation of municipal government, balancing budgets, managing staff, and addressing the needs of residents. However, the challenges of municipal management can be complex and ever-changing. That is why membership in the Municipal Management Association of New Hampshire (MMANH) is an invaluable resource for those leading our cities and towns. The following is a little bit more about what we provide.
Managers 101: Preparing New Leaders for Success
Stepping into a leadership role in municipal government can be a daunting challenge. New Town Administrators and Managers must navigate complex regulations, budgeting processes, and personnel management while also engaging with elected officials and residents. MMANH recognizes these challenges and offers the Managers 101 program, a 1 on 1 mentoring program where new members receive individualized instruction from our partners at NHMA, HealthTrust, and Primex, and are partnered with a seasoned professional for support during their entire first year in the job. This program helps individuals who are new to the job navigate the complexities that managing in New Hampshire can bring and builds for long term success.
Fellowship Program: A Win-Win for Students and Communities
Our Fellowship Program brings college students into local government to assist communities while providing 50% of the funding. Towns and cities benefit from fresh perspectives and added resources at an affordable cost, while students gain real-world exposure to the inner workings of municipal management.
Many program participants go on to pursue careers in public administration, strengthening the pipeline of future municipal leaders in New Hampshire.
A Community of Support Through the MMANH Listserv
No municipal leader should feel isolated in their role. One of the greatest advantages of MMANH membership is access to the association’s active listserv. This online resource connects members to their colleagues across the state, creating an invaluable forum for problem-solving, idea-sharing, and professional support. Whether a Town Administrator needs guidance on a policy issue, a City Manager is seeking an example of a successful initiative, or a member is simply looking for advice from seasoned professionals, the listserv fosters a strong network of municipal leaders who are ready to help each other navigate everyday challenges.
Educational Programs for Continuous Growth
Municipal management is an evolving field, requiring ongoing education to keep up with changing laws, policies, and best practices. MMANH is committed to professional development through its robust educational programming, held six times a year. These conferences, lunch & learns, and workshops cover a range of important topics facing communities including, financial management, human resources, public engagement, artificial intelligence, mental health, and all the issues we face. By staying informed and up to date, MMANH members ensure they are providing the best possible leadership, for their communities.
Joining MMANH: An Investment in Effective Governance
For Town Administrators, Town Managers, and City Managers MMANH membership is more than just a professional affiliation—it is an investment in effective governance. By joining MMANH, municipal managers and Assistant Administrators/Managers gain access to a supportive network, valuable training, and a wealth of shared knowledge that strengthens both individual careers and the communities they serve.
Join now or make sure your community’s leader is already a member to help ensure you and your community are thriving by taking advantage of this tremendous resource.
For more information, please visit www.mmanh.org or contact Walter Johnson, Executive Director at: mmanhexecdir@outlook.com.