THE investigation which resulted in the dismissal of a senior council officer took longer than expected, Southern Downs Regional Council CEO Rod Ferguson said yesterday.

Speaking the day after the Daily News revealed economic development officer John Randall was no longer employed by council, Mr Ferguson confirmed the news.

"As per the Daily News story, he didn't resign," Mr Ferguson said.

"We had to go through due process as we do with any staff member going through disciplinary action,"

Mr Randall was stood down from his position on Monday, according to Mr Ferguson, following a six week investigation.

He would not reveal details of the investigation or the reason for the termination but said other senior members of staff were involved and invited to provide statements.

"It was drawn out longer than we would normally like," Mr Ferguson said.

"We had key players on leave at key times but kept both parties informed."

He stressed it was not a decision made by councillors but an operational one that ultimately rested on his shoulders.

Mr Randall had his contract renewed earlier this year and has been working for the council since 2006, according to Mr Ferguson.

There is still the possibility Mr Randall will pursue legal action against the dismissal and Mr Ferguson said before reappointing for the position, it was normal protocol to ensure the correct structure was in place.

Mr Ferguson said council would need to consider whether to maintain the geographical split in the economic development unit between north and south, or whether to divide the work into areas.

The department will be further depleted later this year when Mr Randall's former counterpart in the southern end of the region, Sarah Reeves, goes on extended leave.

Mr Ferguson confirmed council had advertised Ms Reeves' temporary position and would look to recruit someone in the future.