Dave Barry was yesterday unveiled as the new chief executive of the shire, which includes the towns of Bright, Myrtleford and Mount Beauty.

Alpine mayor Peter Roper welcomed Mr Barry, who is currently Towong Council’s community and corporate services director.

“We undertook a comprehensive recruitment process and interviewed some very capable candidates,” Cr Roper said.

“My fellow councillors and I are confident that Dave has the experience and skills required to perform this important role.

“We look forward to welcoming Dave and working with him to deliver the key elements outlined in our council plan.”

An Irishman, Mr Barry graduated in Galway with a degree in electronic engineering before emigrating to Australia in 2003.

“My first job in Australia was as the economic development officer at Alpine Shire, having moved here 10 years ago, and my enthusiasm for the region and the organisation stems from that time,” Mr Barry said.

He later gained work at Albury Council as the team leader in economic development.

He will end his tenure at Towong on October 25 and begin at Bright on November 11.

Mr Barry, who was one of more than 50 applicants, will replace Ian Nicholls who has been chief executive at Alpine for the past six years.

“Ian has done a wonderful job throughout his years working for the shire and we are all very grateful for his commitment and dedication,” Cr Roper said.