Maj. Gen. Aviv Kochavi is set to be named the next IDF Chief of Staff.

Defence Minister Avigdor Lieberman announced his nomination after a comprehensive three month election process last Friday.

Kochavi, currently Deputy Chief of Staff, will succeed Lt. Gen. Gadi Eisenkot, who stands down from the top position next month.

Justice Eliezer Goldberg’s appointments committee will initially ratify his candidacy before being approved by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s Cabinet.

Lieberman has informed Netanyahu and Eizenkot of his preferred choice for the post.

He has also thanked other candidates vying for the position for being professional, respectful and gentlemanly during the appointment process.

“Maj. Gen. Kochavi has impressive leadership skills, courage, creativity and impressive command capabilities,” Lieberman noted in a statement.

“The unique combination of the positions in the IDF he has filled in the past, his ability to manage situations during the times of emergency and the esteem in which he is held by his fellow officers….

“All of this make him the most suitable candidate to lead the IDF in the coming years.”

It is understood Lieberman held meetings with former Prime Ministers, Defence Ministers, Chiefs of Staff and senior officers before making his selection.

A number have been in charge of the four candidates in the past.

Kochavi, 54, Eizenkot’s current deputy, has served as Commander of Military Intelligence and Chief of Northern Command.

Addressing an officers’ course at Bahad 1 base last month, Kockavi stressed leadership and initiative as key skills for graduates.

“The task that is imposed on all of us is becoming more complex every day,” he noted.

“In this state of affairs, there is a special place for originality and innovation.

“Do not settle for what you have and do not take anything for granted.

“Stick to your goal, but question the method; do not accept any existing norms, but offer an alternative; lead the way.”