posted on: 10/9/2026
The Dover City Council has selected Deputy City Manager Christopher G. Parker as Dover’s next city manager, effective Jan. 1, 2027.
Parker will succeed City Manager J. Michael Joyal Jr., who announced in July that he will retire effective Dec. 31 after more than 33 years of service to the city, including the last 21 years as city manager.
Following Joyal’s announcement, the City Council opened an internal search process, accepted applications from current city employees, interviewed candidates and reviewed their qualifications. A resolution confirming Parker’s appointment and approving an employment agreement is expected to be on the agenda for the City Council’s next regular meeting, Wednesday, Oct. 14.
“During the selection process, Chris clearly demonstrated his deep experience, meaningful understanding of all aspects of the operation of the city, and a commitment to do the work needed to continue to make Dover a desirable place to live, visit, and work,” Mayor Dennis Shanahan said.
Parker has served the city for nearly three decades. A Dover native and resident, he began his municipal career as an intern in the Planning Department in 1997 and became a city employee in 1998. He later served in Community Services and returned to the Planning Department full time in 2002. Parker became director of Planning and Community Development in 2007, assistant city manager in 2014 and deputy city manager for development and strategic initiatives in January 2022.
As deputy city manager, Parker’s work has included strategic planning, redevelopment and development, interdepartmental coordination, capital planning, special projects, community initiatives and oversight of the Office of Business Development. He has also been involved in major city efforts including downtown planning, the Capital Improvements Program, the McConnell Center, and the Cochecho waterfront redevelopment project.
“I am incredibly honored to have been selected to serve as Dover’s next city manager,” Parker said. “For nearly three decades, I have had the privilege of building my career with the city of Dover, working alongside dedicated public servants and community members who care deeply about this city. I am grateful for the trust the City Council has placed in me, and I look forward to continuing to serve Dover with a focus on collaboration, communication and the high level of service our residents expect and deserve.”
Joyal will remain city manager through Dec. 31 and has said he will work with the mayor, City Council and staff to help ensure a smooth transition.
