Atlanta’s Chief Operating Officer is resigning from Mayor Kasim Reed’s administration, less than two years after being named to the post.
The mayor's office confirmed on Friday that Michael Geisler, who took over the role following Duriya Farooqui's departure in January 2014, has stepped down from the position.
He is the third COO to leave Reed’s administration. Peter Aman served as Reed’s first chief operating officer.
Geisler, a certified public accountant, previously served as the chief financial officer of the Department of Watershed Management. He joined the city in 2012 after more than 40 years in the private sector, working as chief financial officer for such companies as Johnson Controls World Services and U.S. Security Associates Holding.
He could not be immediately reached for comment, but a spokeswoman for Reed said that he is leaving to “pursue a new career opportunity.”
"Michael Geisler has served the city ably over the past three years. I thank him for his service to City of Atlanta residents, visitors and employees, and I wish him well in the next chapter of his career," Reed said.
Deputy COO Kristin Wilson will serve in the interim. The mayor will name a permanent replacement within the next 10 days, according to a press release from his office.
Geisler’s last day will be Aug. 6.
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