Bloomberg reported that Intel had hired Spencer Stuart & Associates to help in the search. Bloomberg doesn't say when Intel hired them nor how long the contract has been in place. They do not say where Intel is in the search process. Hiring a search firm is part of the due diligence of the BOD.
The retirement of Paul Otellini was a surprise and maybe the BOD just wants to be sure that they get the right person. I expect them to select the person that Paul has recommended to them and was groomed for the position.
Do you know who is the heir apparent for AMD's Read or QCOM's Jacobs?