Mr Brown made the announcement this week after seven years in the top job. 

Mr Brown grew up in the Wimmera and worked as finance manager for the former City of Horsham before amalgamation in 1995.

He served with Horsham Rural City Council from 1995 to 2002 as corporate services manager and later acquired the economic development portfolio.

In 2002 he was appointed chief executive of Wimmera Uniting Care until February 2008 when he left the region to become corporate strategies director at Warrnambool City Council.

He returned to Horsham in November 2010. 

Mr Brown said he believed the time was right for a change of leadership.

“It’s a step I am somewhat reluctant to take but I firmly believe it is important for our council to change leadership on a regular medium term basis,” Mr Brown said.

“At the time of my appointment I proposed to effect change without dishonouring the past. I believe I have achieved that goal, but change must continue.

“I also believe the new councillors are now well established in their roles after twelve months, and have gained the experience required to undertake a chief executive officer recruitment process.”

Mayor Pam Clarke said Mr Brown would be missed.

“He is man of integrity and has been an excellent CEO for this council,” she said.

“Peter has run the organisation with a quiet confidence and respect for all staff and councillors. He has been prepared to make the tough decisions when needed and has respectfully made change to the organisation and brought everyone with him in the process.

“He will leave council in a strong financial position and in a position of strength. Peter has the respect of the local government industry and both state and federal government. He has a passion for this region and has worked tirelessly to get services and infrastructure to Horsham.”

A finishing date for Mr Brown is likely to be in December 2017 or January 2018.

UPDATE 10:25am 

Horsham Rural City mayor Pam Clarke said Mr Brown was a man of integrity and he would be missed. 

“It is disappointing to see him leave, but he was an excellent chief executive,” she said. 

Cr Clarke said it was Mr Brown’s decision to resign. 

“Peter is not a believer in staying too long and it is time to bring in a fresh pair of eyes,” she said. 

“He believes he has achieved what he set out to do.” 

Mr Brown’s final day will be December 15.

EARLIER 

HORSHAM Rural City Council chief executive Peter Brown has tendered his resignation.

The resignation comes after Mr Brown has served in the position for seven years. 

Mr Brown grew up in the Wimmera and worked as finance manager for the former City of Horsham before amalgamation in 1995.

He served with Horsham Rural City Council from 1995 to 2002 as corporate services manager and later acquired the economic development portfolio.

In 2002 he was appointed chief executive of Wimmera Uniting Care until February 2008 when he left the region to become corporate strategies director at Warrnambool City Council.

He returned to Horsham on November 1 2010. 

More to come.