CONTACT:
Judy Stokes: (603) 271-3211
Daniel Lynch: (603) 271-3511
May 28, 2003

Fish and Game Director Applications Due June 5

CONCORD, N.H. -- The deadline to apply for Fish and Game's Executive Director position is June 5, 2003.

The statute requires the Fish and Game Commission to conduct a "comprehensive and equitable search" for a new executive director. Jim Jones, commissioner for Merrimack County and chairman of the search committee, says that the Commission has been recruiting for applicants through a wide variety of channels.

According to Jones, the search committee will begin conducting interviews in June. "We have been receiving applications since April 25, but they will not be opened or reviewed until June 12, at which time we will check them against the minimum qualifications for the position and begin scheduling interviews," he said. The full Commission will be involved with the interview process, Jones noted, and "commissioners are forbidden from discussing the details of this process with individual applicants -- or with anyone outside the Commission, for that matter."

Based on applicants' qualifications and interviews, the Commission will submit a single recommendation to Gov. Benson. Jones says the Commission hopes to make its recommendation in July.

At last week's Commission meeting, Jones commented that media speculation has been misleading, noting that there have been mentions of a 'frontrunner' in some news reports. Reminding the audience that the applications are locked away until June 12 and that the names or even the number of candidates is currently unknown, Jones said, "No one is a frontrunner at this time."

Interested candidates should send a cover letter and resume that clearly demonstrates how they meet the qualifications and desired skills. To be considered, applications must be postmarked by June 5, 2003. Click here for information and application details.

The director serves as chief administrator of the Fish and Game Commission, an eleven-member appointed body. The ideal candidate is a progressive and experienced conservation professional with demonstrated management skills and leadership ability. He or she will understand the value and traditions of hunting, fishing, trapping and wildlife viewing, possess a strong ability to communicate and appreciate the balance required among all seven divisions of the Department.

As the guardian of the state's fish, wildlife, and marine resources, the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department works in partnership with the public to conserve, manage and protect these resources and their habitats; inform and educate the public about these resources; and provide the public with opportunities to use and appreciate these resources.

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