New York Times Chairman and publisher Arthur “Pinch” Sulzberger told staffers on Monday he would begin a succession plan and name a deputy publisher sometime within the next two years.

Mark Thompson, the current chief, could be in line, but most expect it will go to a family member who is part of the fifth generation of cousins to run the Grey Lady.

The perceived front-runner is Arthur Gregg “AG” Sulzberger — son of Pinch. AG was head of the committee that unveiled the Innovation Report last spring that was sharply critical of the company’s way of doing business in the digital age.

The Golden side of the clan also has a favorite son, Sam Dolnick. He’s a first cousin, once removed, to Pinch and the son of Lynn Golden Dolnick.