Cranbrook is on the lookout for someone to fill its top job, following the resignation of the shire’s chief executive.

Linda Gray announced she will step down from the position earlier this month, and is set to finish in September.

Ms Gray, who has held the job for five years, said she decided not to continue following the end of her contract.

“It is time for a new chief executive officer to take the reins and bring new ideas into the shire, and value the wonderful staff that support both CEO and council so well,” she said.

Shire president Perin Mulcahy said the departing chief executive had been a valuable asset to the region and looked forward to welcoming a new leader.

“Ms Gray’s close work with the agricultural and business communities has driven key projects and strengthened the shire’s prospects for the years ahead,” she said.

“The Shire of Cranbrook is well positioned for the future, both geographically and as a region rich in opportunity.

“This role presents the chance for a new leader to build on these achievements, make a meaningful contribution to the shire’s continued growth, and to respond to emerging challenges and opportunities.”

A recruitment panel consisting of Crs Mulcahy, Peter Beech, Daisy Egerton-Warburton and independent member Steven Tweedie has been put together to search for a new candidate.

They will be assisted by recruitment consultants LO-GO Appointments with the choice to then progress to council for endorsement.

A key quality the panel is looking for is someone with a “strong, capable approach to building and maintaining respectful relationships with councillors, ratepayers, businesses and other stakeholders”.

Advertising for the position will close on June 2, with the successful candidate expected to be announced by late July.