Mr Bhalla replaced former chief executive Peter Brown who tendered his resignation in October after seven years in the top job. 

The new chief executive will commence on April 3. 

Mr Bhalla has 24 years experience working in local government including the past 12 years in senior management positions. 

His current role is infrastructure services director at the City of Maribyrnong where he has finance and operational responsibility for over 120 permanent staff and the delivery of services and programs totaling $60 million. 

Mr Bhalla has worked at the Surf Coast Shire Council for more than 14 years in a range of management positions including general manager governance and infrastructure, director corporate services, director infrastructure and infrastructure manager.  

He was also with the Hume City Council for six years and the Shire of Bulla for over two years.

Mr Bhalla said he was looking forward to working with councillors, staff and the community to provide high quality service and enhance community health and wellbeing.  

“I am also very keen to work with neighbouring councils, government agencies and other service partners to build on the economic strengths of the region,” he said.

Mayor Pam Clarke said councillors made a unanimous decision to offer the role to Mr Bhalla. 

She said he would bring a wealth of experience and skills to the role. 

“He has a proven track record in leading change, facilitating major commercial and industrial enterprises, development and delivery of new services, infrastructure and facilities, good governance and prudent financial management,” she said. 

Cr Clarke said she was confident Mr Bhalla would help Horsham Rural City Council move forward. 

She said he would manage the organisation in a positive, respectful and sensitive manner. 

Over 40 applications for the new chief executive position were received by the recruitment company. 

From a strong field of applicants, six candidates were shortlisted.

Council’s corporate services director Graeme Harrison will continue as acting chief executive until Mr Bhalla’s commencement.