But after an arduous, three-month recruitment process, Goulburn Mulwaree Council's new general manager was breathing easier on Friday afternoon.

Mr Berry, who joined the former Goulburn City Council eight years ago, was selected out of two final candidates to head up the current organisation.

"It has to be the highlight of my career, no doubt," he told the Post.

"Anyone who works as a professional in local government always aspires to the next level to test their abilities. It is the next logical progression. But if you asked me 25 years ago whether I'd be top of the woodpile, I would have said 'in your dreams."

Councillors selected Mr Berry during a closed session last Wednesday night. The Goulburn Post understands the vote was six to three and the other candidate was a female.

For the full story, please see Monday's Goulburn Post, available from our front office in Auburn St, or at all leading newsagencies across the Goulburn area.