Interim management has grown significantly in popularity in recent years, especially in Europe. More and more companies see the value of bringing in temporary leaders to meet critical challenges and drive change processes. According to INIMA’s latest survey for 2024, this market is growing strongly, with clear trends and priorities shaping the year ahead. What does this mean for companies considering interim management, or for leaders who want to explore this career path? Here we review the key findings from the report – and how they may affect your business.
For companies considering using interim managers, or for leaders who want to take on interim roles, it is important to understand the main factors that will influence the market in 2025. In this article, we go through the most important findings from the survey and how they may affect your business.
What is interim management?
Interim management, also known as "management for hire" or "temporary management", involves bringing in experienced leaders on temporary contracts to cover specific needs. This can be anything from leading a business through a crisis or handling mergers and acquisitions to driving extensive transformation processes. Interim managers are often highly qualified experts with many years of experience at C-level.
The most important trends in interim management in 2025
1. Growing demand for interim managers – and a shortage of resources
One of the most striking findings in the report is that demand for interim managers continues to rise, but there is a shortage of available candidates. Several European countries report a situation where demand exceeds supply, which makes it a competitive market. This means that companies must act quickly to secure the best interim managers, and that the most experienced leaders have good prospects of assignments.
2. Greater focus on digitalisation and artificial intelligence (AI)
Technology plays an ever greater role in interim management. Interim managers need expertise in digitalisation, AI and the use of data to optimise business processes. Tools such as ChatGPT and other AI technologies have become increasingly relevant for driving efficiency and innovation. As a result, leaders with technological expertise will be particularly sought after in the year ahead.
3. Greater focus on work-life balance
Although interim managers often work on demanding and time-sensitive projects, the survey shows that more of them are prioritising a good work-life balance. This is important both for protecting personal health and for being able to perform at their best. Interim managers who can combine a high work capacity with good stress management will be the most successful.
How interim managers meet the biggest challenges in 2025
4. Crisis management and risk management
With an increasingly uncertain economic situation and supply chain challenges, it is crucial that interim managers have strong crisis management skills. Companies are looking for interim managers who can help them navigate complex situations, minimise risk and ensure continuity of operations. In particular, the ability to handle rapid changes in the market, both nationally and internationally, will be decisive.
5. Professional development and networking
For interim managers, continuous professional development and networking are essential. Keeping up to date with the latest industry trends, including technology, management practice and change management, will be crucial to succeeding in 2025. Interim managers must also build a strong network, as many assignments still come through personal contacts and recommendations.
Who is the typical interim manager in Europe?
According to the INIMA survey, the typical interim manager in Europe is 56.8 years old, with more than 8.5 years of experience in interim management. Many of these leaders have long experience from permanent senior executive positions before they started taking on interim roles. Interim management attracts experienced professionals who are able to handle demanding situations quickly and effectively.
It is also worth noting that women are still under-represented in interim management, although countries such as France and Poland have a share of more than 20% female interim managers. There is still some way to go in achieving better gender balance in this field.
Which sectors use interim managers the most?
Interim managers work across many industries and in many different roles, but according to the survey, demand is particularly high in the following areas:
- General management: 30.2% of assignments
- Finance: 11.4% of assignments
- Operations: 10.1% of assignments
- HR: 8.8% of assignments
- IT: 5.6% of assignments
This shows that interim managers are used across a wide range of industries, often in key positions where rapid action and effective problem-solving are required.
Duration of interim assignments
The average duration of an interim assignment in Europe is 11.5 months. This gives companies enough time to implement the necessary changes, while ensuring flexibility for leaders and organisations. Many assignments last six months or less, especially in countries such as Austria, the UK and Poland, where the interim management market is very dynamic. Here in Norway, interim assignments typically last 6–12 months.
Day rates
Interim managers' day rates are rising. In 2024, the average was EUR 999, with large variations between countries. This reflects both national economies and company size. Interim managers working in large companies or specialised sectors can expect higher fees, while those working with smaller companies, especially in Southern Europe, often have lower rates.
Why choose interim management?
Interim management gives companies a unique opportunity to bring in experts with long experience to meet specific challenges. In 2025, the most successful companies will be those that are able to use interim managers strategically – whether to drive digital transformation, handle crises or carry out major change processes.
Whether your company is facing a major transformation or you need a leader to fill a temporary role, interim management can be the solution that gives you flexibility, expertise and fast results.
Would you like to know more about how interim management can strengthen your business? Contact us at Agile Interim for a no-obligation conversation. Together, we will find the right leader for your needs.
Interim AKA
Interim management, interim managers, Management for Hire, temporary management, digitalisation, crisis management, AI, change management, risk management, C-level, day rates, leadership in Europe, interim senior executive.
