Bendigo Community Health Services chief executive officer Kim Sykes has resigned to take up a position in Melbourne closer to family.

“It’s always been my intention to return to Melbourne at some stage because that’s where my son and daughter live and this opportunity has made that possible sooner than I anticipated,” Ms Sykes said.

“My eight years at Bendigo Community Health Services have been enormously rewarding and I’m proud of the work our great staff and the organisation do for the Bendigo community. It’s been a privilege to be part of that.

“Now it’s time for the next CEO to take BCHS forward and continue that great work.”

Ms Sykes said the support of staff, partner organisations and community had been wonderful since joining BCHS in July 2010.

UPDATE: To see the advertisement for the CEO position click here

“The high esteem in which BCHS is held by the community and the organisations we work with is truly rewarding and our staff play a vital role in that. Everyone at BCHS should be proud of what we have achieved,” Ms Sykes said.

BCHS board chair Geoff Bowyer said the organisation had benefited greatly from Ms Sykes’ leadership and direction.

“Kim has had an incredible impact on our organisation. Her knowledge of the industry, networks and leadership have seen BCHS grow considerably and that’s made our organisation stronger and better,” he said.

“We sincerely thank Kim for her absolute commitment to BCHS and her vision to improve the health and wellbeing of the Bendigo community.

“The board has really enjoyed having Kim lead BCHS.”

Mr Bowyer said the BCHS board would now begin the search for a new CEO.

“Finding a CEO that continues to build Bendigo Community Health Services into the future through positive leadership and innovation will be our priority,” he said.

“The position will be advertised and we will seek employment agency support because finding the right CEO is essential so BCHS can continue the fantastic work we do in caring for the health and wellbeing of the Bendigo community.”

Ms Sykes will finish with BCHS on January 11.