The CEO of Halifax Water has resigned less than a year after being hired for the job.

Dr. Tareq Al-Zabet took a leave from the role a few months ago and rumours regarding his future as head of the utility have been swirling since.

Al-Zabet was chosen as the new CEO from a candidate pool of more than 130 applicants. He was named the new leader of Halifax Water in May of last year and began his official duties in late July.

Halifax Water confirmed his resignation in a media release on Monday but it’s not clear what led to his departure.

Kenda MacKenzie has been appointed as acting general manager.

“The board respects Dr. Al-Zabet’s decision; we wish him well and thank him for his work at Halifax Water,” said Colleen Rollings, Chair of the Halifax Water Board of Commissioners. “MacKenzie’s appointment is effective immediately.”

MacKenzie has been with the company for more than 15 years.

Halifax Water says with an interim leadership plan in place, the board will now focus on the next steps required to fill the position permanently.