South Korea's iM Financial Group is expanding and extending its selection process for the next chairman after beginning management succession planning on Sept. 28. The chairman nominating committee plans to establish a long list by the end of October, finalize a short list by the end of November and recommend a final candidate in December. Internal and external candidates will be assessed under the same standards. External applicants will be sourced through multiple professional search firms, while independent directors and outside experts will participate in evaluating expertise, leadership, organizational ability and strategic thinking. The three-stage process includes qualification and reputation checks, expanded interviews, presentations and discussions about the group's management direction over the next three years.