AceShowbiz -

"The Office" will welcome a new boss in season 8. James Spader, who has appeared in season 7 finale as an applicant for Michael Scott's vacant regional manager position, is allegedly in negotiations to join the NBC show next fall.

Although his name was thrown among the possible contenders to replace the Scott depicter, Steve Carell, the three-time Emmy winner won't be the new Dunder Mifflin manager. Instead, he will portray a CEO of Dunder Mifflin, replacing Kathy Bates who is reported to exit the drama comedy series to focus on season 2 of "Harry's Law".

Spader is yet to sign up, but if the deal is sealed his character Robert California will be introduced in the season 8 premiere as the new "Office" manager. However, "he quickly decides the role is too small for him, and somehow talks corporate into appointing him as its new CEO," Entertainment Weekly reports.

Unlike Bates, Spader will have a significant weekly presence on the show. His character is additionally said having "a strong impact on the rest of the 'Office' staff, demonstrating a manipulative power and a somewhat creepy sexual vibe."

"Dwight has never come up against somebody equally powerful and diabolical," sources gush. "With Andy, he could be a real father figure and make life really hard for him once he senses he can manipulate him. Jim reads people really quickly, yet wasn't sure what to make of this guy."