Armidale Regional Council hires James Roncon as general manager

James Roncon, the general manager at Broken Hill City Council, has been hired on a five-year performance based contract and will start in January.

Since the departure of former council boss Susan Law in July, the role has been filled by interim managers.

John Rayner was appointed to the position of acting general manager by Interim Administrator Viv May.

Before Mr Rayner arrived, a temporary acting manager, David Kerr, was seconded from Sydney's northern beaches to oversee the council until August 23.

Then in August Mr May held a workshop with 30 local residents who applied to have a say on the appointment the full-time general manager.

The permanent replacement that search found has had more than 23 years of experience in senior leadership and executive management roles across public and commercial business sectors.

In that time Mr Roncon has held director positions with the ACT Government and was General Manager at both Cowra and Carrathool Councils, before moving to Broken Hill in 2016.

Mr May said the appointment was a big step in setting a new and prosperous path for the council.

"As part of the process, forums were held where staff and community representatives expressed their views on the characteristics and strengths the next General Manager of Armidale Regional Council must possess. James meets those expectations," Mr May said.

Mr Roncon said he was looking forward to the challenges ahead and a move to the beautiful Armidale region.

"I've been to Armidale many times and always found it incredibly enjoyable, it's a such a picturesque part of Australia," Mr Roncon said.

"One of the main things that always struck me was Armidale's liveability; it has all the advantages of a major city without the drawbacks, it offers a really enviable lifestyle.

"I admit I was quite settled in Broken Hill, and it's an exciting time for the city with a lot of big developments and projects on the horizon.

"But when the opportunity arose to be closer to my family and take on a new challenge in a beautiful city, I couldn't say no.

"I can't wait to start the role, and look forward to serving the people of the Armidale region."

Mr May said Mr Rayner had agreed to stay on as acting general manager until Mr Roncon arrives to ensure a smooth transition.

"For that I am extremely grateful," Mr May said.

The recruitment process started on August 28 and was due to close in September, however that was extended until October 5 as Mr May said at the time they had not found the right person for the job.