His resignation will be effective from June 30.

Mr Krygger’s decision to resign brings an end to 22 years as a health service CEO, the last 14 of those at SWH.

Mr Krygger nominated his time at SWH as a career highlight and believes the time is right from a personal and professional perspective to resign.

“It has been an honour and a privilege to lead this outstanding health service over the past 14 years and to preside over the most significant growth period in the organisation's history,” Mr Krygger said.

“I am immensely proud of the outcomes that we have achieved during my tenure.”

Among those include the completion of the $120m stage one redevelopment of the Warrnambool Base Hospital, the completion of the $30 million South West Regional Cancer Centre and the completion of the $1.5m Rotary House.

During his reign, SWH has won a number of awards, including the Premier’s 2010 Regional Health Service of the Year Award. 

He pointed to both the quality of health professionals now at SWH and the commitment to bringing the next generation through as a highlight.

“The creation of the Deakin Medical School and the significant benefits that this relationship continues to deliver,” Mr Krygger said.

“As does the increased specialisation of the health service with 65 specialists now residing in Warrnambool.”

Mr Krygger has also been prominent in the pursuit of the $112 million for the delivery of stage two of the base hospital redevelopment. 

Mr Krygger said SWH has an enviable reputation nation-wide as a high-performing health service.

“I will always be indebted to the board of directors for their ongoing support, the dedication and commitment of the executive team and the continual pursuit of improvement from South West Healthcare’s 1400 staff,” Mr Krygger said.

“During my career at South West Healthcare, I have had the pleasure of working with, and appreciated the contribution of, South West Healthcare’s exceptional clinical and support staff and volunteers, and I will greatly miss these relationships.”

The contribution of Mr Krygger has been acknowledged by SWH board of directors chairman John Maher.

“John’s passion and drive will be greatly missed by the board,” Mr Maher said.

“He has made an outstanding contribution over a 14-year period and the entire region will benefit from his legacy for many years.”