Bernd Neubauer has moved from Sydney to join the council. He replaces Heather Taylor in the economic development team leader role.

He has more than 20 years national and international business experience and will report to the council’s economic development and tourism director, Tracey Squire.

Mr Neubauer has worked in London, Germany and Dubai in banking, finance and investment.

He said economic development leadership and strategies would have the biggest impact on economic growth in regional areas.

His priority would be to get a clear idea of the Albury areas economic strengths and weaknesses, including the drivers that made some industries successes while holding back others.

Mr Neubauer said he would focus of attracting investment, leveraging opportunities from the digital economy and helping established businesses grow their markets on the regional, national and international stages.

“There are emerging industries, particularly in the areas of software development and creative industries that have an opportunity to grow in Albury and service a national market,” he said.

“The digital economy also provides opportunities for micro and online businesses to deliver products globally.”

Out of work, Mr Neubauer is a keen snowboarder with an interest in the outdoors.

The close proximity of the Victorian alps was one of the reasons he decided to move to Albury.

The council’s team leader in charge of tourism is Sue Harper, who switched to local government from the hospitality industry in 2010.

Mr Neubauer has already started in the role.