East Gippsland Shire Council will begin recruiting for a new CEO with Anthony Basford accepting a job with City of Greater Geelong.

Council says it’s currently working with Mr Basford on the timing of his departure to take up the role of Executive Director City Life with Geelong, as well options for the recruitment of a new CEO.

East Gippsland Mayor Tom Crook said it was disappointing to hear of Mr Basford’s resignation but Council was well placed to forge ahead.

Cr Crook said Mr Basford had led the organisation through five years that saw some difficult times including the pandemic, bushfires and other natural disasters.

“Anthony has led the organisation exceptionally well, including during some very difficult circumstances,” Cr Crook said.

“He has provided stability and leadership and nurtured a great depth of experience across the organisation that will continue to serve us well.”

Mr Basford said he was confident the work he has done with his team at East Gippsland will make a lasting difference.

Mr Basford has held senior executive roles in local government across Victoria and NSW, at  Bega Valley Shire Council, City of Kingston, Cardinia Shire and City of Casey.

He’ll be joining Tennille Bradley, James Stirton and Troy Edwards as part of City of Geelong’s new executive leadership team under CEO Ali Wastie, who took up the position on August 28 after finishing as Bass Coast Shire CEO.

Mr Stirton follows Ms Wastie from Bass Coast while Mr Edwards comes across from the MAV where he was an executive director.