EDENTON – A decade of leadership in Bertie County will soon draw to a close.

Thursday morning, Bertie County Manager Zee Lamb accepted an offer to become the top executive in neighboring Chowan County. Lamb has served as Bertie County Manager since August, 2000.

“I appreciate the confidence you have shown in me and I’m looking forward to working with you in the next few years to continue to take Chowan County forward,” Lamb told the commissioners after their 7-0 vote to employ him as County Manager.

Following the meeting, Lamb said he was excited about his future, but said he was going to miss his role in Bertie County.

“I’m looking forward to a new challenge,” he said. “I have enjoyed my 11 years in Bertie County. There are a lot of good people there and five great commissioners. I’m sure the county will continue to move forward.”

Lamb said he will tender his resignation today (Thursday) and trigger the 60-day notice in his contract. He expects to begin work in Chowan County early in 2012.

Lamb’s contract in Chowan County will pay him $116,000 per year and will also provide a residence in Edenton for Lamb’s sole use.