Kaipara commissioners have appointed Jill McPherson to become Kaipara District Council's acting chief executive after the current CEO, Steve Ruru, leaves in October to become chief executive at Southland District Council.
Chairman of commissioners John Robertson said the commissioners were mindful of the uncertainty created by the possible reorganisation of the Northland councils still being considered by the Local Government Commission.
"We have decided not to begin a recruitment process until this reorganisation question is finally decided.
"This may be done by Christmas or take until mid-2015. It makes no sense to try to recruit for this important position when there is a possibility there would not be a job (if amalgamation goes ahead)," he said.
"We are fortunate to have a person with the experience and skills of Dr Jill McPherson to fill this position in the meantime."