Gympie Regional Council will begin an immediate search for a new CEO following the sudden resignation of incumbent Bernard Smith on Wednesday.
Mr Smith has been Gympie’s CEO since 2011.
Prior to taking over the reins, he served as General Manager of the Port Macquarie-Hastings Council in NSW for eight years.
Mr Smith’s resignation was accepted at an emergency meeting of the Council on Wednesday morning, and he will finish on Friday.
During his term with Council, Mr Smith oversaw the the $22.2 million Aquatic and Recreation Centre, Smithfield Street streetscape and Youth Precinct Recreation Hub projects as well as the rebirth of the Mary Valley Rattler.
However, he also drew criticism over council spending.
Council’s finances have run in the red for three of the past four years, including a $12 million operating loss last year.
Gympie Council’s corporate and community director Pauline Gordon was appointed acting CEO later on Wednesday morning.
She will remain in the role until the position can be filled.
Mayor Glen Hartwig told media Ms Gordon’s previous experience in the role was a key part of the decision.
He wished Mr Smith well in his future endeavours but said accepting his resignation was a “step forward” for the Council.
