Stephen Mclean currently works at Narrabri Shire Council and has experience in both local government and private business.

Mr Mclean was appointed to replace former general manager Vic North who resigned last July.

Acting general manager Jeff Austin said Mr Mclean would bring a 'breath of fresh air' to council and has the knowledge and experience to take on the difficult position.

"He's a pretty switched on operator who relates well to people and community," Mr Austin said.

Mr Austin said Mr Mclean comes from a country background and has specific experience in northwest NSW, although is untainted by amalgamation issues and inquiries of other councils.

He will be expected to work alongside administrator Hugh Percy in trying to bring back economic sustainability and credibility to the council.

The appointment comes after a shake up of council over the past year with a series of investigations and inquiries which resulted in the sacking of all the councillors in July.

The public inquiry held in May found there had been litany of poor performance by both the councillors and management.

The report from an investigation into the council last year recommended the appointment of a mentor for the council to guide management in the running of council.

At the last council meeting Mr Percy said he agreed with the recommendation and was looking into the appointment of a mentor soon. The mentor would work with council for around six months and provide advice on local government procedures and guide council in decision making.