Cessnock City Council general manager Lotta Jackson has tendered her resignation after almost three years at the council.
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Council accepted Ms Jackson's resignation in a confidential session at Wednesday night's ordinary meeting.
Ms Jackson will be taking a period of accrued leave before formally vacating the role on May 6.
Council's director of corporate and community services Robert Maginnity has been appointed as acting general manager until recruitment for an interim or permanent replacement occurs.
Ms Jackson said that with the borders finally being open, she has decided to plan to visit her close and extended family that she hasn't seen for years, and the experience of COVID has certainly assisted her decision.
She also believes that this is the best timing with the newly-elected councillors having an opportunity to select a new general manager early in their term.
"I wish to thank the mayor and councillors, senior colleagues and all staff during my time as general manager, starting with bushfires, floods, the pandemic and more floods," Ms Jackson said.
"The community is in good hands with Mayor Suvaal and I know that the future is bright for Cessnock LGA and that it will be a continued growing and thriving place to live, work and visit."
Ms Jackson was appointed to the role in August 2019, having previously worked as general manager at Norfolk Island Regional Council.
Cessnock mayor Jay Suvaal thanked Ms Jackson for her service to both the council and the broader Cessnock community.
"Lotta had the difficult job of leading the organisation during a period of unprecedented challenges which have included catastrophic bushfires, major flooding and a once in 100 year pandemic, and always tried to put the community first," Cr Suvaal said.
"I personally thank Lotta for the support she has shown me as mayor and wish her all the best for her next endeavours."
Council listed completing Bridges Hill Park playground, constructing Gingers Lane, and the Government Road and Hart Road roundabout, building Paynes Crossing Bridge and formalising the agreement with Hunter Valley Wine and Tourism Association as key achievements during Ms Jackson's time.
