What is an Interim Manager?

An Interim manager is a proven heavyweight executive who works on short-term assignments to manage non-typical situations, such as a period of transition, crisis, or change within an organisation.   A permanent role may be unnecessary or the need for an ongoing requirement may be uncertain.   Additionally, there may be nobody internally who is suitable for, or available to take on, the assignment.

Why use an Interim Manager?

Speed.   Interim managers can be in place within days or even hours, as opposed to weeks; essential when time constraints are paramount.

Experience.   Interim managers will be more than qualified for the position they are taking on, and will often be stepping down in responsibility.   They will have past experience of similar challenges, and a wide breadth of business experience from many organisations.   They are equipped to have an immediate effect and be productive from the outset, minimising the risk of things going wrong and, more importantly, ensuring success.

Objectivity.   Unbiased by any previous involvement in company processes, politics, or staff relationships, interim managers provide a fresh perspective and can concentrate on what's best for the business.

Accountability.   Rather than taking on a purely advisory role (as a management consultant would), interim managers are responsible and accountable managers/directors who take responsibility for managing a business, function, or project.

Effectiveness.   Operating at or near board-level gives interim managers the authority to effect significant change or transition within a company.   Unlike a temp, they're not just there to just 'hold the fort'.

Commitment.   Interim managers are typically committed to an interim career.   For them, this is never just something they are doing until a suitable permanent position is found.   Interim managers enjoy the challenge of the different assignments, take great pride in maintaining the highest standards while realising that they are only ever as good as their last job.

What are Interim Managers used for?

Interim managers are used to fulfill various roles including: crisis management, sudden departure/illness/death, managing change or transition, sabbaticals, MBOs and IPOs, mergers and acquisitions, separations and disposals, project management, programme management, outsourcing, insourcing, cross sourcing, process re-engieering to name a few.   Interim Managers from Joined Up Business can also manage the development of novel technology.

What other terms are used for Interim Managers?

Depending on the role, other terms can be used in place of interim manager.   These can include Company Doctor, Trouble shooter (troubleshooter), interim executive, project manager, programme manager, interim director, implementation manager, business doctor, change manager, turnaround manager, outsourcing manager, and restructuring manager.

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