The presiding officer of a municipal council or board who fulfills the duties of the chief executive in their temporary absence or incapacitation is commonly referred to by a specific designation. This individual assumes the responsibilities of the head of the municipality on a short-term basis. An example includes a city council member selected to act in the place of the chief executive during a period when the elected leader is unavailable due to travel, illness, or another conflict.
This acting role ensures continuity of governance, preventing operational disruptions. It allows for the timely execution of critical tasks and decision-making processes. Historically, the appointment of a substitute leader has been crucial in maintaining stability, particularly during emergencies or transitions in leadership.