Gary Gaffney, whose most recent local government role was as East Gippsland Shire chief executive officer, will take over from acting CEO Vikki King, who will return to her previous role as director of community development.

The decision was made at a WCC meeting on Monday night, as under current legislation Ms King was unable continue as acting CEO for more than 12 months.

"As many people are aware, there is currently a Supreme Court case underway which has delayed a decision on a permanent chief executive officer," Warrnambool mayor Vicki Jellie said.

"With Ms King's tenure as CEO drawing to a close and while we await the outcome from the Supreme Court, we need to maintain business-as-usual and ensure a smooth transition to new arrangements once the court's decision is known.

"I'd like to thank Ms King for taking on the role since July last year and am very pleased to welcome Mr Gaffney to Warrnambool and the role as interim CEO."

Mr Gaffney, who will relocate to Warrnambool from Paynesville, said he was looking forward to coming to Warrnambool.

"I'm thrilled to be CEO of the beautiful city of Warrnambool - even for a limited time," he said.

"My focus will be on helping the relatively new set of councillors and the organisation as a whole as we wait for the outcome of the Supreme Court decision.

"Once the court's decision is announced I will remain to assist with the progress towards a permanent appointment."

Mr Gaffney, who was also involved in the establishment of Better Boating Victoria in 2019, has also worked in consulting following his stint with East Gippsland.

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