RUMFORD – Steve Eldridge has been named Rumford’s new town manager.

Eldridge, of Monmouth, has served as Greene’s town manager since 2001.

Board of Selectmen Chairman Jim Thibodeau said Eldridge was chosen because of his strong leadership, management, personnel and financial skills.

Eldridge was one of two finalists for the position. More than 30 people applied for the position, and seven were interviewed by selectmen and two representatives of the community.

Before serving as Greene’s town manager, Eldridge held a similar position as town manager of Etna, in eastern Maine.

He is a University of Maine graduate with a master’s degree in public administration. Before going into public management, he worked in education for four years.

Thibodeau said Eldridge serves on the Monmouth Board of Selectmen, Budget Committee and Capital Improvements Committee.

A final decision on compensation has not yet been agreed upon, Thibodeau said.

The need to fill the town manager’s position is the result of the resignation of longtime manager, Robert Welch. He resigned in June, effective by the end of the year.

Thibodeau hopes Eldridge will be on board by mid-December.