Visit Limprana, a senior member of the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI), has announced his candidacy for the chairmanship of the body.
Currently a vice-chairman, Mr Visit said he would run for chairman in an election scheduled for next March.
The FTI is currently divided into two camps, with one group supporting current chairman Payungsak Chartsutthipol and the other backing vice-chairman Tanit Sorat.
Mr Tanit led a movement last year to oust Mr Payungsak, claiming the chairman had done little to help small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
He said many industrial sectors and SMEs supported Mr Visit, as he has an understanding of economics and the problems facing SMEs.
"A lot of members think Mr Visit would be the best candidate, considering the current situation of the FTI, which is in need of reconciliation and cooperation between large companies and SMEs upcountry," said Mr Tanit.
Mr Visit is also the managing director of the Nguan Soon Group and chairman of the FTI's food processing industry club.
Another potential candidate, vice-chairman Chen Namchaisiri, has divisive views and does not have the support of FTI members upcountry, Mr Tanit added.