Head-hunters Odgers, Ray & Berndtson, one of the country’s most well known executive search firms, wrote to 750 chief executives of Britain’s leading firms to encourage them to apply for the role.

 

“Candidates must have strong commercial pedigree, as this company is going to turn into the equivalent of a major plc,” said Simon Cummins, the chief partner at Odgers who has been in charge of the search. “It’s a job of the greatest national importance for an outstanding and visionary leader.”

 

The final interviews were held last week in London when Coe and Keith Mills, who was chief executive during the bid process but has since switched to being vice-chairman, had dinner with the three short-listed candidates. It is expected that the person appointed will start work in the Spring.

 

Several of the biggest figures in British business have been connected with the post, including Camelot’s Diane Thompson and Richard Bowker, the former head of Railtrack.

 

But senior sources at London 2012 have told insidethegames the successful candidate has not so far been linked with the job in the national press.

 

Whoever it is will work in close tandem with the Olympic Delivery Authority, the organisation responsible for delivering the venues and infrastructure for the games.

 

David Higgins, head of English Partnerships, was appointed as the ODA’s chief executive last month. He is due to officially start next month.

 

Unlike the ODA, LOCOG will be funded by private money from sponsorship and merchandise. It will be responsible for organising the Games.