The job – left vacant when former CEO Susan Rankin resigned suddenly in April – was advertised in national and statewide news-papers and on job-search websites last month.

A council spokeswoman said recruitment agency Urban Executive had prepared a short-list of candidates and interviews would take place over the coming weeks.

Mayor Melva Hobson has said the final

decision will be voted on at a full council meeting.

The chief executive officer is responsible for overseeing the work of council officers and implementing council decisions.

Redland City Council’s 10-page position description says the successful applicant will be expected to lead “cultural change” within the organisation. The person will also be required to “develop and maintain a positive relationship with

council”.