After almost 12 years as CEO of the Rural City of Wangaratta, Brendan McGrath will step down at the end of the year.

An external recruitment process will begin shortly, and the Interim CEO will be confirmed at November’s council meeting.

Mayor Irene Grant said his contribution to the region over the past 12 years has been profound.

"His leadership has left a lasting legacy," Cr Grant said.

"I had the privilege of being part of the council that appointed Brendan during our time under administration, and I’ve seen firsthand the transformation he has led.

"From stabilising the organisation to driving major community projects, Brendan’s impact will be felt for years to come.

"On behalf of the council and the community, we thank him for his service and wish him all the best in his next chapter.”

Reflecting on his time at the Rural City of Wangaratta, Mr McGrath said "it has been an honour to serve this community".

"I am proud of what we have achieved together and thankful to those who supported our journey,” he said.

Mr McGrath also extends his thanks to those who supported him over the past 12 years.

"I would like to thank Ailsa Fox, Rod Roscholler, and Irene Grant for their work in stabilising the council and building confidence during the council’s time under administration," he said.

"I’ve valued the dedication of mayors Ken Clark, Dean Rees, and Irene Grant, as well as the councillor groups across each term.

"I am grateful for the support and leadership shown by the current council management team and past leaders, including Ruth Kneebone, Alan Clark, Jaime Chubb and Barry Green.

"To the wider Rural City of Wangaratta team, your hard work, dedication, and passion make a real difference to our community every day.

"The Rural City of Wangaratta is in capable hands with our people, and I am confident the next chapter will be prosperous, built on the foundations we’ve established over the past 12 years.”

In the new year, Brendan will join North East Water as a general manager, leading its commercial innovation and digital transformation portfolio.