Derbyshire have identified the man they want as their new elite performance director and are close to making an appointment.
The post was created at the end of last season and, with head coach Karl Krikken deciding to leave the county rather than apply for the changed role, an outside recruitment process was started.
Derbyshire had hoped to have their preferred candidate in place for the start of pre-season training and, although that target has been missed, the appointment appears imminent.
A statement read: "The club has made significant progress during the festive period with regards the appointment of a new elite cricket performance director (EPD).
"With the squad having returned to continue pre-season training this morning under the guidance of captain Wayne Madsen, it is anticipated that the new EPD will be in-post imminently to lead the preparations for the 2014 campaign.
"Once related contractual details - and a rigorous, seamless and acceptable transition plan are confirmed - the club will be in a position to confirm the appointment.
"However, due to the confidential nature of the process, no comment will be made on speculation regarding individuals until that process is complete."