Cr Adam Roberts: Clock was ticking on GM's contract

That's the view of deputy mayor Adam Roberts (pictured), who has told the Port News he is entirely comfortable with the decision.

"We were just looking for a different set of skills. As far as the process went it took some time for us, as councillors, to get our heads around it.

"But I can say there was no specific issue that led to this, it was the right time and council has a goal to push forward with a new vision."

Tony Hayward was, at the time of his appointment, the right person for the job. But council, Cr Roberts said, were looking to implement some serious change.

"We've only got four years to enact as much change as possible," he said. "As an individual, I'm looking for some really strong guidance in a new general manager, to make sure we are able to do this."

He cited stronger leadership and stronger communication with the community as foreseen benefits of the decision.

"From my perspective, this is going to enable a faster process of change," he said.

"There's always ways to improve the process and we are now really looking to see council listening, not just hearing, but really listening and achieving what the community would like to see done."

The deputy mayor expressed having full-confidence in the abilities of Craig Swift-McNair, who steps into the role of acting general manager.

But said he would hope a new appointment would be made as soon as possible.

"Councillors and staff of the organisation have expressed a desire to be the leading regional council in the state, and that's a big call.

"But I believe this will fast track our ability to do that."