"Keith Baillie's legacy at Surf Coast Shire will endure for many years to come," said Mayor Cr Rose Hodge.
Mr Baillie has announced he will be taking up a new CEO position at Geelong based not-for-profit, Gforce Employment Solutions, after more than five years as CEO at Surf Coast Shire Council.
"Personally I am sad he is leaving but on behalf of the whole organisation I wish him all the best for the next chapter in his career," said Cr Hodge.
"Keith has demonstrated enormous drive and commitment to the region – I recall our trips to Parliament House to lobby federal government minsters where I saw first-hand his commitment and professionalism in representing the shire and broader region.
"We've achieved substantial funding for projects shire wide - from Stribling Reserve in Lorne to the Torquay multi-purpose indoor stadium."
"His legacy will include a record capital works program, a dedication to achieving long term financial sustainability for Council and governance reforms which have improved Councillors' work practice.
"Surf Coast Shire Council, through Keith's leadership, also took a lead on the recycling crisis last year by committing to a fourth bin ahead of many other Victorian Councils.
"Whatever the endeavour, Keith puts his heart and soul into seeing it through to a successful conclusion.
"This work is paying off now and will continue to do so for years to come," Cr Hodge said.
"He will be greatly missed and we thank him whole heartedly for his service," she concluded.
Deputy Mayor Cr Clive Goldsworthy highlighted financial and business reforms as some of Mr Ballie's significant achievements.
"He has achieved savings through the business transformation program and provided more transparent and easier to understand financial reporting. People can now clearly see what Council's finances will be like in 10 years' time," he said.
Cr Goldsworthy also recognised improved community engagement, customer experience reforms and the introduction of the business transformation program under Mr Baillie's leadership.
Mr Baillie expressed his gratitude for his time at Surf Shire Coast Shire Council.
"Serving our community has been a privilege. I am very grateful for this opportunity and thank the Councillors and community for their support," said Mr Baillie.
"Council exists to 'Help our community and environment to thrive'. Council has dedicated and wonderful staff who are committed to this purpose. I thank them all and wish them every success," he concluded.
