The CEO of Halifax Water has resigned after a short stint in the role.

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

Al-Zabet was selected as the new CEO after an extensive search featuring more than 130potential candidates.

He was named the new leader of Halifax Water in 2023 and spent only a few months on the job.

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 General Manager position permanently.