He replaces Brendan Hollands who has been acting in the role since March 15 when Warwick Bennett left.

READ MORE:

Closed talks surround Goulburn Mulwaree GM Warwick Bennett's departure

Goulburn Mulwaree Council GM Warwick Bennett leaves role

Warwick Bennett resigns as Goulburn Mulwaree Council GM

Councillors agreed to the move in a closed session of their meeting on Tuesday. Mr O'Rourke will start the position on Friday, May 6.

Mayor Peter Walker said both Mr Hollands and Mr O'Rourke had previously fulfilled the acting position and the change was made in the interests of staff development.

"I think it's good for the staff to be given these opportunities," he said.

"It also allows staff (below them) to act in positions."

He thanked Mr Hollands for his work, saying he'd done an "exceptional job."

ALSO READ:

Man who threw lighter at child sentenced at Goulburn Local Court

Council's bulky waste pick-up's reinstatement raises questions

Counting on an eventful time as council taps into tourism

"Thank you for your support and guidance. I'm sure councillors old and new appreciate what you've done."

Mr O'Rourke was appointed operations director in 2014. He previously worked for the former Goulburn City Council for more than 12 years, including as water services manager, before leaving in about 2004 to work in private enterprise.

Mr Hollands has worked with the council for 30 years.

Mr Bennett remains a contracted employee until July 8. However under the terms of his confidential departure agreement, he will not perform any duties.

Meantime, applications close for the top job next week.

Blackadder Associates was appointed in March to undertake the recruitment.

Cr Walker said he didn't know how many applications there were but councillors would be given a shortlist of candidates in about two weeks. They would also have a say in the final selection.

Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can access our trusted content: