On Tuesday, May 2nd, City Council announced that the current Deputy City Manager and Finance and Administration Director Katie Ambrose will succeed outgoing City Manager Blaine Cox on July 3rd, 2023.

In an internal letter announcing his retirement, Cox said “It’s time to let the city benefit from new leadership, new ideas, and a fresh perspective”. His decision to retire is a personal one, based on his desire to spend more time with his family and pursue new professional challenges.

Cox says he’s pleased that the City Council appointed Ambrose, stating “It is apparent to everyone who works with Katie that she is most qualified and capable.”

“Those of us that know Katie personally, are aware of her incredible integrity and that she truly cares about the citizens we serve and the city’s workforce she will lead,” said Cox. “I am excited for the future of Rochester as City Manager Ambrose begins her tenure!”

Ambrose is a New Hampshire native who earned a Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Studies from the University of North Carolina Wilmington and a Master of Science in Integrated Coastal Ecosystem Science, Policy, and Management from the University of New Hampshire. She previously worked as the Project Coordinator for the Town of Hooksett and later became the Town Administrator for the Town of Sanbornton.

For the past four years, Ambrose has served as the Deputy City Manager and Director of Finance and Administration for the City of Rochester. In this capacity, she worked to support the city’s financial health, strengthen regional collaboration, and respond to the then-challenges of COVID-19.

Ambrose is committed to building upon the strengths of the city and maintaining a culture of collaboration and quality services fostered by her predecessor. As City Manager, she plans to support the city’s growth and services, employee retention, public engagement, and fiscal strength.

Ambrose says she’s excited to take on her new role as Rochester’s City Manager and “looks forward to continuing to work with a dedicated and highly skilled team”.

“A special thank you to the Mayor and City Council for this opportunity and to Blaine Cox for his mentorship,” said Ambrose. “I’m filled with gratitude for leaders, like Blaine, and other champions in my corner that have been supportive of my professional development throughout the course of my career.”

Ambrose is looking forward to fostering positive relationships with the Mayor, City Council, and staff as she transitions into her new role. According to Mayor Paul Callaghan, Ambrose is the best choice for the job, noting the value of the City Council’s historic decision.

“There is no one better equipped for this position than Katie Ambrose,” said Callaghan. “Not only is she the first woman, but she is also the youngest person to become City Manager in Rochester. Her unique perspective is an incredible asset that will serve us well into the future. On behalf of the City Council, we look forward to working with her and wish her well in this endeavor.”

The City of Rochester has not yet named a replacement Deputy City Manager or Finance and Administration Director. An announcement will be made at a later time.