Shoalhaven City Council’s general manager of 16 years, Russ Pigg, will leave an impressive legacy when he departs in August, 2019.

Russ said he will miss his staff, but he will not be missing the late nights.

His evenings are spent poring over business papers, working through tasks that are better addressed at home, where there are fewer calls and emails coming through.

The general manger is leaving on his own terms after spending more than 42 years in the industry, including 27 years as either a shire clerk or general manager.

The Vincentia resident will stay in the region.

Russ looks forward to spending more time with his family and fishing with his young grandchildren.

Russ confirmed advertisements for the top job would likely attract a wide range of candidates, including directors from within the organisation.

When asked if he would consider returning as a councillor in future, Russ’ response was an emphatic, “no.”

On Tuesday afternoon, upon announcing his retirement, Russ said he will continue working in February and March before a period of long service leave and retirement.

“I have enjoyed serving the Shoalhaven community since July, 2001 as the assistant general manager and general manager since January 2003,” he said.

“I am proud of what council and our wonderful staff, have achieved over these years. The renewal of sports fields and sporting facilities, including the development of the Nowra Aquatic Centre, Bay and Basin Leisure Centre and Sussex Inlet Aquatic Centre. The development of arts and cultural precincts including the Regional Art Gallery and Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre and well as the redeveloped Ulladulla Civic Centre. The construction of strategic road assets including Main Road 92, St Georges Basin bypass, Turpentine Road and Forest Road.

“I was also pleased that we were able to work through the merger proposal with Kiama Council and remain a standalone council and achieve a sustainable future with the approval of the IPART application.

“It is a role that has its challenges but is also very fulfilling, especially when great outcomes are achieved for the community.

“It is now time for me to enjoy other things that life has to offer and allow for a new general manager to have 12 months to settle into the role before the next council election.

“It has been a privilege to be part of a progressive organisation with a team of dedicated and professional staff who do the heavy-lifting and make it all happen.

“I thank the four mayors Amanda Findley, Jo Gash, Paul Green and Greg Watson and the 16 hard-working directors who have worked with me over the past 16 years as GM.”

Shoalhaven Mayor Amanda Findley wished Russ the best.

“It has been a pleasure to work with Russ over the time that I have been a Councillor and Mayor of Shoalhaven City,” Mayor Findley said.

“Russ is a dedicated, passionate and positive GM who is considered and measured in his approach.

“He provides sound advice and has guided our Council and Council staff professionally and with community needs at the forefront of his mind.

“The role of GM is diverse, busy, challenging and needs significant balance. Russ has performed this role exceptionally well over his time with Shoalhaven Council. He will be missed by us all and the thousand-plus council staff at our offices and depots throughout the city. 

“On behalf of council I wish him the very best for this well-deserved next stage of his life, whatever the future may hold.”