Former Environment Southland chief executive Rob Phillips has been brought back to temporarily take charge of Southland's regional council.

Phillip's interim appointment will commence in August, following the retirement of current chief executive Wilma Falconer, and last until the council recruits a permanent chief executive following October's local body elections.

Phillips has had over 24 years in executive and leadership roles including 10-years as ES's chief executive.

Upon his retirement from ES in May 2022 Phillips was appointed the independent chair of the newly formed Wānaka Airport Liaison Committee.

ES Chairman Nicol Horrell said they were fortunate to have an experienced chief executive of Phillip's calibre to support the council through the interim period.

Rob lives in Invercargill and has the experience and understanding to get up to speed quickly with the Council’s business, Horrell said.

He is also a familiar face and will provide continuity for staff and during a time of much change in the local government sector, he said.