The Wall Street Journal has quoted unidentified sources that say Nokia is searching for a new CEO to replace embattled chief Olli-Pekka Kallasvuo.

According to the sources, the CEO of one American high-tech firm met with Nokia Chairman Jorma Ollila about the job, but declined because he didn’t want to move to Finland. At least one other manager from an American firm has also been flown to Helsinki to interview for the job. Nokia spokespeople say they will not comment on market speculation.

The rumours come as Nokia faces a losing battle in the profitable smartphone market. Its hopes now rest with the coming Nokia N8 while Apple launches the new iPhone 4 in Finland this Friday.

DAVID J. CORD
HELSINKI TIMES