The Executive Office of the Town of Chelmsford is made up of the Board of Selectmen and the Town Manager.  The powers and duties of the Board of Selectmen include appointing the Town Manager and many committees, issuing certain licenses and permits, enforcing special sections of the Town By-laws, and regulating the public ways.

The Town Manager is the senior appointed office of the Town and is responsible for the effective operation of the Town's administration.  The Town Manager directs the administration of departments, as well as various boards and commissions.  The Town Manager attends all meetings of the Board of Selectmen and advises and recommends actions related to the needs of the Town.