What is Interim Management?

The concept of interim management is commonly believed to have originated in Holland during the 1970s, when employees were protected by long notice periods, so businesses experienced large costs if they wanted to terminate an employee. Thus the practice of hiring managers on a temporary basis was developed as a cost effective solution to the changing needs of businesses.

Interim management is an effective option when a company needs extra resources and or specialist skills at short notice. Typically interim assignments fall into two types, gap-filling, in the case of, say, maternity leave, promotion, notice or long term sickness, and project management, helping the client achieve change, such as rationalisation, MBO, IT systems upgrade, business process re-engineering etc.  Interim management is different from consultancy, as interim managers work in hands-on roles, where they are part of the client’s management team, while consultants are purely advisory; however, most senior interim managers have the experience and skills to combine the two roles by both designing and implementing the solution. The combination of the two roles is particularly effective as it avoids any interface and communications issues while expediting the project – thus saving time and bringing the benefits of the project in earlier.

Interim managers bring many benefits and can be working within a few days rather than weeks or months. They bring knowledge and experience of the problems clients may be facing. Interim managers are usually more than qualified for the role and have faced similar challenges many times before. They will be able to have an immediate, positive effect from the outset, minimising the risk of error and ensuring success.

Interim managers provide fresh eyes, and can compare clients’ organisations with many others and implement proven methods to tackle issues. As they have not been indoctrinated into company politics or methodologies they will provide clear unbiased and objective views on the business.

Weall Management Services has privileged access to over 2,000 practicing interim managers with expertise in all functions, industries and sectors, and so can help clients find the best manager for their needs.