It began in the council depot as a plant operator, and ended in Muswellbrook Shire Council's top job.
Now, general manager Derek Finnigan has stood down after more than four decades of public service.
Muswellbrook Shire Council accepted Mr Finnigan's resignation at this week's meeting.
Councillors said Mr Finnigan's career was one of remarkable dedication and progression.
He began as a plant operator in the council's works depot and went on to serve in a wide range of operational, infrastructure and senior leadership roles.
He was appointed director of community infrastructure in 2018, deputy general manager in July 2020 and general manager in March 2023.
He has served in the top job for more than three years.
Muswellbrook Shire mayor Jeff Drayton said 44 years was an "awful long time to be in any job".
"To be in the role, serving the community and ending with the GM role is an extraordinary achievement for someone who has devoted themselves to this community," Cr Drayton said.
He said Mr Finnigan would be sorely missed.
"He's decided it is time, now, to spend a bit more time with his family, which doesn't surprise anyone," Cr Drayton said.
"That is the kind of man that he is.
"From council and the community, we wish Derek all the very best."
In a statement, the council said Mr Finnigan was known throughout the organisation for his "kindness, humility, hard work and genuine dedication to the people of Muswellbrook".
"Few people have given as much of their working life to this organisation and community," the statement said.
The council has appointed director of economic investment Shaelee Richards as acting general manager, and will run a recruitment process to find a permanent replacement.
Ms Richards has more than 25 years of experience across local government and executive leadership experience at Muswellbrook Shire Council, Maitland City Council and the City of Gold Coast.
Since 2022, she has led the council's economic development, governance and community portfolio.
