Golden 25 -- #23 Pierre Beckers

(ATR) Elected to the IOC in 2012, Pierre Olivier Beckers is one of the least senior members, but he now is also one of the most knowledgeable members of the IOC in the world of international finance.

As a result, he is a good candidate to fill the chairmanship of the IOC Finance Commission when appointments are made after the Sochi Olympics. And if not, Beckers must still be in line for an IOC appointment that fits his extraordinary experience.

Beckers retired this year as CEO after 30 years with Delhaize, the Belgian grocery company with operations across Europe, Asia and North America. Revenues for the firm top €20 billion annually.

Beckers has been president of the Belgian NOC since2004, a post once held by ex-IOC president Jacques Rogge. Beckers turns 54 in May, leaving him with 16 years to serve in the organization before reaching the current retirement age of 70. Look for him to step up to the executive board within a few years.

2013 ranking: unranked

Reported byEd Hula

For general comments or questions,click here.

20 Years at #1: Your best source of news about the Olympics isAroundTheRings.com, for subscribers only.