Mr Wallace's contract was extended until May so a replacement could be found after the chamber announced in August that it would not renew their arrangement.

The Examiner understands that the chamber's board has finished interviews with short-listed candidates.

Board chairman Troy Harper said he hoped to be in a position to make an announcement soon.

Mr Wallace said he would focus on completing some key projects before handing over the reins.

This includes two major reports - one analysing how local government could provide its services more efficiently; and another on the resources the state will require in the long-term for a positive economic future.

Mr Wallace said he hoped to find a new position within Tasmania so he could stay in the state, after moving here 35 years ago.

``I'm certainly not looking to retire, as I know I've still got a lot to offer the business community in Tasmania and beyond,'' Mr Wallace said.

``Our preference is definitely for staying in Tasmania, but unfortunately for the sort of roles that I take on there aren't a lot of such opportunities around.''

As part of his TCCI role, Mr Wallace also sits on the Tasmanian Infrastructure Advisory Council and the Access Advisory Group reporting to Tourism Minister Scott Bacon.

Mr Harper has said the board wants its new leader to focus on reform in planning and local government.