FILE - Republican gubernatorial candidate Kelly Ayotte, who faces Democrat Joyce Craig in the November 2024 election, smiles during a visit to a local concrete coating business, Wednesday, Oct. 16, 2024, in Manchester, N.H. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa, File)

CONCORD – Gov.-elect Kelly Ayotte named Hillsborough County Sheriff Christopher Connelly as Chief of Staff and John Corbett as Senior Advisor to the Governor.

Governor-Elect Ayotte released the following statement:

“We are building a team that is ready to work from day one to keep New Hampshire moving in the right direction. I am proud to have an experienced, dedicated leadership team in Sheriff Connelly and John Corbett. They have my total confidence as we work to deliver on our promise to keep New Hampshire safe, prosperous and free.”

Incoming Chief of Staff Christopher Connelly has served as Hillsborough County Sheriff since 2021 and currently serves as Chairman of the New Hampshire Police Standards and Training Council. Prior to being elected, Connelly served as Chief Deputy Sheriff at the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, Chief of Police in Dunbarton, and in other law enforcement positions in New Hampshire. Connelly will transition to the Governor’s office after completing his constitutional duties as Sheriff.

Ayotte has tapped John Corbett to help lead her office as Senior Advisor to the Governor. Corbett served as General Consultant for Ayotte’s historic victory and previously was an Executive Vice President at Jamestown Associates.