Olivier Quesnel is Lotus’ new team principal, according to the authoritative Italian publication Autosprint.
64-year-old Quesnel, best known for his world rally success at the helm of Citroen, this week admitted he had been in contact with team owner Gerard Lopez about replacing departed fellow Frenchman Eric Boullier.
"I will not pretend that I am not interested," said Quesnel.
Another candidate reportedly also under consideration by Lopez was Martin Whitmarsh, who appears to be out of a job at McLaren.
"We need to make a decision quickly," admitted Lopez, "because we have things to prepare. It will be at the latest within a week, ten days."
According to Autosprint correspondent Roberto Chinchero, Quesnel has secured the job, and will start work next week.