Top-order batsman Craig Cumming has led the side since 2002 and, while he has been a wonderful servant, the 34-year-old is nearing the twilight of his career.
With that in mind, Hesson acknowledged the association was considering sharing the captaincy responsibilities this season in order to groom Cumming's successor.
"It is certainly something that we are looking at," Hesson said.
"We are trying to get a number of different players to take a leadership role. Craig knows he is not going to be around forever and we've got to keep growing the group of leaders."
Hesson said Otago was still working through the options, including the possibility of Cumming leading the team in limited-overs cricket while another player takes the reins for the Plunket Shield.
"We have not finalised what we are going to do because we have not finalised our squad yet. But it is something we will look at in October and decide what is best for the team.
"Craig is certainly on board with that and knows it is a pretty important part of our succession planning," he said.
The departure of Greg Todd has thinned the leadership ranks, but Black Caps offspinner Nathan McCullum shapes as a natural replacement.
However, he is likely to be unavailable for extended stints while on duty with the national team.
"Nathan has led the team when Craig has not been there but, once again, you have to look at how much cricket they will be around for.
That's a consideration as well."
Hesson declined to say who might be in line for a promotion.
"It is something we need to discuss as a group before we start throwing some names out."
Top-order batsman Aaron Redmond is probably next in line behind McCullum, and experienced medium-pacer Warren McSkimming might also be considered.
If Otago opts for a younger player, wicketkeeper Derek de Boorder shapes as a bold option.
The 24-year-old is a level-headed and ambitious young man with potentially a long first-class career ahead of him.
Hesson has indicated he plans to leave at the end of the summer, so the association is nearing the end of an era.
It will be up to the next generation of players to maintain the momentum Hesson and Cumming have been able to generate.
The pair helped Otago lift its first national trophy in 20 years when the Volts won the one-day tournament in 2007-08.
Otago followed that success by winning the twenty/20 title in 2008-09.
