Mr Kuhne starts the role on Monday following the departure of long-serving manager Dean Luciani.

Mr Kuhne has been with WorkCo for eight years, including the past six as training manager.

"The general manager's role seemed like a natural progression," he said.

Chief executive John Ackland said Mr Kuhne was appointed after an extensive interview process featuring internal and external applicants.

"Robin has worked in several roles and is a very capable person," he said.

"We look forward to continuing our current successful operations in the region."

Mr Kuhne said maintaining WorkCo's level of service across the state was important.

"The organisation has been extremely well led for a long period of time," he said.

"I think it is the general manager's role to ensure that high level of service is maintained.

"I'm sure there will be opportunities for me to put my own spin on things down the track."

Mr Kuhne said although WorkCo continued to evolve, the fundamental message remained the same.

"We are here to support employment and training in the six regions we cover," he said.

"It is a commitment shared by all WorkCo staff."

Mr Kuhne said he was aware of the region's needs.

"I was born in Dimboola, I still live in Dimboola and I have three daughters who attend the same schools I did growing up," he said.

"I feel I am well positioned to understand the challenges our region is faced with.

"Having said that, I believe all challenges provide opportunities."

Mr Kuhne entered the engineering trade before joining WorkCo as an apprenticeship field officer.

"With engineering you can get something designed and built in a short time," he said.

"Here you are building relationships during a long period of time.

"The product involves a lot more work and effort, but overall it is a lot more satisfying."

Mr Kuhne said some of the apprentices he employed eight years ago were now employing their own apprentices.

"It is very rewarding to see them come full circle," he said.