THE offer to become the new CEO of the Northern Territory Cattlemen's Association (NTCA) came 12 months too early for Tracey Hayes.
Ms Hayes, who will start on Monday as the organisation's acting CEO, has declined to take the job permanently, saying her number one priority is being a mother to her four boys.
Her decision means the NTCA is still looking for a replacement more than six months since Luke Bowen flagged he was leaving the post.
"From a professional point of view it would be an excellent time to come into the role," Ms Hayes said.
"Luke set up a solid platform for the NTCA to grow into the future and for any aspiring CEO that's a good position when you're taking the reins.
"But for me personally I have a business to run and four boys from 19 to nine and that makes for a busy life.
"My mum lives with us, which means I have a layer of support that a lot of other working mums don't have, but at this stage it's just too early for me to commit to such a demanding role."
The Alice Springs-based Ms Hayes, who will also continue in her current role as executive officer and the organisation's NFF delegate, said the NTCA board had done everything they could to accommodate her needs.
"You could not ask for a better board, absolutely flexible and understanding," she said.
"The task that is now in front of us is to focus on filling the position and supporting whoever takes on the job."