Ms Harrington is joining former mayor Lisa Mahood at a conference in South Korea at a cost to ratepayers of $15,000.

Mr Schultz will be acting chief from October 11 to 19, with the temporary arrangements confirmed by council this week.

“This matter has been discussed among the executive staff, and the appointment of Leon Schultz, director planning and infrastructure at this time is consistent with the approach of developing the leadership qualities of the executive team,” council notes said.

“Even though the chief executive will be in touch with council during this period it is appropriate to have someone onsite to address any immediate issues.

“It is normal practice to appoint an acting chief executive officer during periods of prolonged absence of the chief from the Hovell Street office.”

Ms Harrington and Cr Mahood are attending the Social Enterprise World Forum in Seoul from October 14 to 16.

They will fly business class with Wodonga Council’s budget estimates for the trip tabled in June including $2000 on hotels, $1400 for conference fees, $1500 for food and $10,000 for airfares.

The council sets aside $20,000 for staff for professional development each year and its travel policy enables business- class tickets to be bought for flights over six hours.

Mr Schultz joined Wodonga from Wang-aratta Council in 2010 and was promoted to director in mid-2012.

He acted in the role following the departure of Johan Louw and has since played a leading role in the ongoing central business district improvements.

Fellow director Trevor Ierino has previously been the acting chief including a stint earlier this year, as has former director Michael Gobel.