Erika Wenzel, chief executive of Cheshire East Council (CEC), is currently on sick leave and the Council has set £80,000 aside should they need to employ a temporary replacement.
Her work is currently being covered by colleagues but if she is to be absence for a longer period then the Council may have to appoint an interim chief executive at a cost of up to £26,600 per month.
Erika Wenzel took up the position of chief executive in 2008 and according to the statement of accounts for 2010/11, on CEC's website, her salary was £189, 260, which included a £15,000 allowance for acting as the Returning Officer for elections. Her total package, including expenses and employer's pension contribution is listed as £226,318.
A Cheshire East Council spokesman said: "Cheshire East Council's chief executive, Erika Wenzel, is currently away from work due to ill health. We wish her well and look forward to her return to work.
"During this time, her key duties are being covered by the strategic directors. However, should it become clear, at any stage, that Erika will be away from work for a longer period, we will need to review this arrangement.
"In this event, should it be considered that Erika's absence would be best covered by a temporary appointment, Council has given its authority to appoint an interim chief executive.
"Careful consideration is being given to this and it is felt, for an authority of this size, that the absence of such a key role can only be sustained for a short period of time.
"The Council is aware that an appointment of this nature could cost up to £80,000 for a three-month period and given the critical nature of the role of chief executive, Council has endorsed this decision."
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