Washington (CNN) US Immigration and Customs Enforcement Acting Director Ron Vitiello will leave his leadership post at the end of the week, according to a letter sent to ICE employees Wednesday.

His announcement comes after his nomination to lead the agency in a permanent position was suddenly pulled by the White House last Thursday.

"I am writing to let you know that Friday, April 12, 2019, will be my last day as Acting Director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). I would also like to express my deep thanks and gratitude for the opportunity to serve with our incredible workforce," he wrote to employees in the letter, which was obtained by CNN.

Vitiello, who appeared to be on the cusp of Senate confirmation, was nominated by President Donald Trump to head the agency in August. He previously served as chief of the US Border Patrol and acting deputy commissioner of Customs and Border Protection.

Last Friday, President Donald Trump said he wanted to go in a "tougher direction" -- a move that came at the urging of White House senior adviser Stephen Miller.

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