Confidence from a former Labour Party President that either of the two candidates to take over the job could do it well.

Current party senior vice-president Robert Gallagher and Auckland University lecturer Nigel Haworth have both put their hands up to take over from Moira Coatsworth.

Mike Williams told Newstalk ZB's Mike Hosking he knows both candidates.

"I think either of them could do the job, but they have different skills. Robert Gallagher is a skilful organiser, Nigel Haworth is strong on policy."

Williams says there are many different styles of president, but one aspect needs to take priority.

"Now, I think whoever wins this job will have to become very active in fundraising."