Nigel Hadgkiss, director of Fair Work Building and Construction Inspectorate, ’on extended leave’

Nigel Hadgkiss, director of the Fair Work Building and Construction Inspectorate, had intially decided to retire.

Nigel Hadgkiss emailed staff this morning to say he had informed the minister of his decision two years into his five-year term. Picture Tom Huntley

Fair Work Building and Construction Inspectorate director Nigel Hadgkiss has written a second email to staff this afternoon to say he may return to the role after earlier declaring his intention to retire.

Mr Hadgkiss said he was taking “extended personal leave ... to assist my recovery and determine whether I would be fit to return to work.”

“You would be aware that earlier today I had expressed an intention to retire,” the email began.

“As an alternative to retirement, I have since decided to take a period of extended personal leave with the Minister’s approval.”

Mr Hadgkiss had emailed staff this morning to say he had informed the minister of his decision to quit two years into his five-year term.

However Mr Hadgkiss later “reconsidered” his position.

A spokesman for Employment Minister Michaelia Cash said she had approved “a period of personal leave” for Mr Hadgkiss.

Mr Hadgkiss has determined that he will take a period of personal leave to attend to his health and this has been approved by the Minister

Mr Hadgkiss’s replacement would be confirmed in due course.

“Acting arrangements will be confirmed in due course”.

A spokesman said Mr Hadgkiss had “reconsidered” his decision after discussions with staff.

“He came in this morning had some discussions with staff who were concerned about his health issues and had a discussion about options available including taking a period of leave.”