The transformation of interim management

The areas in which interim managers are used have changed increasingly in recent years. In the beginning, interim management was only used in the context of reorganizations or restructurings in companies. But it can be observed that interim management is increasingly used for vacancy bridging, eg

  • due to short-term layoffs or a long period of illness,
  • an expected longer hiring process (as many executives have long notice periods when they want to change companies) or
  • due to the planned future elimination of the position to be filled in the context of company changes and the resulting temporary need. 


Interim managers are always on demand where an acute shortage of personnel cannot be adequately filled in time.

In recent years, interim managers have also been increasingly deployed as change managers for specific projects or tasks, in addition to existing management. They then come to the company with specialized implementation expertise, can familiarize themselves very quickly with the specific company situation due to their practical experience, and are thus immediately effective. This is particularly useful for many companies that need change in order to remain fit for the future, but lack the time or specific expertise to tackle these changes intensively themselves.

The companies benefit from the interim solution through

  • Short-term availability and short training periods
  • Independent expertise with a high degree of implementation orientation
  • Valuable input from outside and positive long-term effects on organizational and personnel development in the company
  • Know-how transfer and calculable costs 
  • Uncomplicated contract conditions with clear cost transparency
  • Interim managers do not compete with internal managers

Interim managers thus assume responsibility for results, whether in a line position or in projects. They leave the company or the filled position as soon as the problem is solved, eg a more stable new organization or business unit management is established, or after completion of the project they were involved in, or as soon as the required recruitment has taken place . 

In conclusion, it can be said that interim management has grown in scope and versatility in the modern world.

If you would like to know more about the possibilities of using interim management or would like to make a more purposeful request for an interim manager, please contact us at info@mentatory.com .