Albury City Council executive of corporate services Judy Charlton has been named this week as the new appointment by Mayor Jenny Clarke after she was handpicked out of a field of 15.

Cr Clarke welcomed the appointment of a woman to the role, but said it didn't come down to sex.

"We're highly delighted to have our first female general manager," Cr Clarke said.

"However, I am not one for a quota system.

"We picked the best person for the job."

The general manager role at Narrandera has been plagued in recent years by a number of resignations.

Former general manager Mark Amirtharajah resigned in January 2012 after four years in the position citing he and his family had been racially discriminated against.

The role was then taken up by Ray Pluis who has been forced to retire from the role due to health issues.

Mrs Charlton's appointment comes at a critical time for the shire as it battles difficult issues including the threat of amalgamation with other shires.

"Judy's rural and regional local government experience, along with her strong leadership abilities will help us navigate the very difficult issues facing Narrandera, the region and local government generally," Cr Clarke said.

"I am sure the staff of Narrandera Shire and the community will give Judy a very warm and friendly welcome when she joins us."

Mrs Charlton's first day will be on Monday, May 5.