The MDBA board said during his time with the authority, Mr Glyde had overseen the largest water reform of its kind in the world during the worst drought on record.
“The MDBA is a different organisation to what it was when Phillip joined six years ago, the board said.
“He has provided strong, calm and proactive stewardship, helping to transform the agency to be more connected to its communities and stakeholders. This will be his lasting legacy to the MDBA.
“He knows the Murray-Darling Basin like the back of his hand and cares deeply about its future, which has been a strong foundation for the momentum he has achieved during his time as chief executive, often in challenging circumstances.
“His key achievements were overseeing the northern basin review, the 2017 sustainable diversion limit adjustment mechanism determination, the 2020 Basin Plan Evaluation, and the regionalisation of the MDBA.“
Federal Water Minister Keith Pitt thanked Mr Glyde for his dedicated service.
“The role is a challenging one and Mr Glyde has shown leadership as he fulfilled his duties with integrity and a deep commitment to the Murray-Darling Basin,” Mr Pitt said.
“Not long after I took on the water portfolio, Mr Glyde organised a tour of the southern basin so I could see and hear first-hand from individuals and communities whose lives and livelihoods rely on a healthy and working connected river system.
“I wish Phillip well in his retirement to spend more time with his family.”
Mr Glyde has been on long service leave during the past few months and will not be returning to the MDBA.
Mr Pitt said the recruitment process for Mr Glyde’s replacement would begin immediately.
In the meantime, Andrew Reynolds will continue as acting chief executive.