Published Monday, 02 July 2012
A statement from the minister is due later this week. (© Pacemaker)
Brian Rowntree, who was appointed to the position in May 2004, tendered his resignation on Friday.
It comes ahead of the publication of a report into repair contracts, after a previous investigation into claims of over-charging at Red Sky.
A message sent to staff at the NIHE on Monday morning by Mr Rowntree said: "As you are aware the past period of time as Chairman has been one of intense commitment and high levels of personal stress and in particular a challenging relationship with the DSD and NIHE.
"I do not believe that as a board we could have done any more in terms of the strategic direction of the organisation and the accountability framework around operational issues and inspections/reviews and investigations.
The independent report is expected to criticise the housing body about its handling of multimillion-pound repair contracts.
There have been allegations of overcharging and sub-standard work.
Social Development Minister Nelson McCausland, who is preparing to reveal the outcome of the investigation, has already told MLAs it contained "alarming" findings.
He will make a statement on Tuesday about the contents of an independent report on contracts carried out by chartered accountancy firm ASM Howarth.
It began its work in autumn 2011, following the termination of the Housing Executive's £7 million-a-year contract with construction firm Red Sky amid allegations of overcharging and sub-standard work.
Mr Rowntree continued: "Yes, we have internal difficulties, but we are working our way through an agreed solution process, along with the Department for Social Development.
"I believe that there are imminent statements which are about to be made by the Minister within the privileged confines of the Assembly relating to events and reports which neither I as Chairman nor my Board have had an opportunity to address.
"I can therefore confirm that on Friday, 28th June 2012, at 4.00 pm, I tendered my resignation (to apply forthwith) to Minister, Nelson McCausland MLA."