Mr Henderson resigned from his position at Mildura Council last Thursday and left on Friday.

His exit has sparked a debate among councillors about a chief executive salary package review with Mr Henderson reportedly leaving a $310,000 position.

Moira mayor Peter Mansfield said Mr Henderson’s latest salary package was confidential, but the council’s 2012-13 annual report put the figure at $238,000, excluding perks.

“We are getting terrific value for money,” Cr Mansfield said.

Mr Henderson had been at Mildura since 2009.

He has joined Moira on a five-year deal and replaces Gary Arnold, who was dismissed last year.

Cr Mansfield said Mr Henderson “has been there and done that” and “will be a terrific asset”.

Mr Henderson was general manager of Albury Council from 2001 to 2005. Rather than re-appoint him, the council advertised the job and chose Les Tomich.

Mr Henderson was also chief executive at Alpine, Wellington and Murrindindi shires in Victoria and worked in Queensland.

“Mark’s experience running regional councils and his knowledge of agriculture and regional tourism will be invaluable to helping to grow the shire’s economy,” Cr Mansfield said.

“He has a reputation as a strong leader who develops top management teams and addresses tough issues.”

Moira has come under the scrutiny of the Local Government department with former minister Jeanette Powell ordering Cr Mansfield and acting chief executive Peter Bertolus to a “please explain” meeting in Melbourne.

Local Government Victoria executive Nick Foa urged councillors to “respect and trust each other” during a follow-up visit to Moira.

Cr Mansfield said Mr Henderson would be briefed on this week’s budget meeting.

“It will be pretty much signed, sealed and delivered when he starts,” he said.