Cessnock City Council General Manager Ken Liddell has resigned after almost three years in the role leaving a legacy of delivery and growth.
Councillors at Wednesday night's Ordinary Meeting accepted Mr Liddell's resignation.
Cessnock City Mayor Daniel Watton paid tribute to Mr Liddell's leadership and expertise.
"Ken has driven a positive and proactive culture at Cessnock City Council, and built our capacity to deliver for the community and better respond to challenges, through his focus on targeted investment," said Clr Watton.
"I want to sincerely thank Ken for all he brought to the role of general manager, and wish him well for the future."
Council's Director of Planning and Environment Peter Chrystal has been appointed acting General Manager.
Mr Chrystal said Mr Liddell had a strong history of managing large-scale works and infrastructure projects, and improving leadership.
"Ken changed mindsets, altered perspectives and encouraged a growing council to think outside the box, for the betterment of project delivery and our local community," said Mr Chrystal.
"He has left us well placed to manage the challenges we face as a region experiencing rapid growth. Our shared commitment to this great community will ensure a period of continuity, as Council undertakes a recruitment process."
