Updated July 2025 with new information on international PE investors and current interim roles in Norway and Sweden.
Private equity (PE) firms from both Norway and abroad are among the most active users of interim management (‘management for hire’). With a constant focus on value creation, rapid restructuring and efficient growth of portfolio companies, interim managers are a crucial solution for PE investors seeking maximum returns in a short time. Agile Interim has extensive experience with both Norwegian and international PE firms that establish and run businesses in the Nordics.
Why do both Norwegian and international PE firms use interim management?
PE firms typically invest with the aim of increasing value significantly over a period of 3–7 years before exit. Achieving this requires leaders with experience, local insight and specific skills who can implement strategic measures quickly. Interim managers offer:
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Immediate access to experienced C-level leaders: interim CEOs, CFOs, COOs and commercial directors who can go straight into the company and implement change.
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Flexibility and a focus on results: Interim managers work on shorter contracts and deliver measurable results without long-term employment commitments.
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Expertise in restructuring and growth: Interim managers have experience of turnaround processes, cost cutting and operational improvements.
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Experience of PE ownership: Interim managers who work with PE firms know the investor’s requirements, expectations and reporting routines.
When should PE firms consider interim management?
Interim management is a particularly good fit:
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After an acquisition or entry into a new market: immediate stability and effective integration when establishing a presence in Norway or Sweden.
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In turnaround processes: when companies are underperforming and need rapid operational or financial restructuring.
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During leadership transitions: When it takes time to recruit a permanent CEO or CFO, interim managers ensure continuity.
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In international expansion: Interim managers with local knowledge ensure rapid establishment and growth.
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When specialist expertise is needed fast: Interim managers with unique industry or market expertise are often crucial for quick results.
Current interim roles in PE firms in Norway and Sweden
Agile Interim finds that interim assignments in PE firms typically last between 6 and 12 months and cover key C-level roles such as:
Interim CEO (temporary chief executive)
When a PE investor acquires or establishes a business in the Nordics, an interim CEO can quickly create stability, develop growth strategies and secure profitable operations.
Interim CFO (temporary finance director)
Interim CFO (CFO Solutions) is among the most sought-after roles in PE, with responsibility for tight financial management, accurate reporting, liquidity control and increased value creation.
Interim COO (chief operating officer)
An interim COO improves operations, streamlines processes and implements systems that increase profitability – which is especially important in turnaround situations.
Interim commercial director
An interim commercial director is responsible for rapid revenue growth, sales strategies and stronger market positioning.
Success stories in interim management from Agile Interim
Agile Interim has helped both Norwegian and international PE firms achieve clear results:
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Dutch PE firm in Oslo: An interim CEO and an interim CFO delivered a complete turnaround.
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Norwegian PE firm in Oslo: An interim CFO secured significant funding and built up a new treasury function.
PE and interim management – a strategic alliance
Private equity firms operate at a pace where flexibility and immediate access to expertise are crucial. Interim management gives PE funds the opportunity to put the right leadership in place quickly, implement strategic measures without delay and maximise the value of their investments. Agile Interim has broad experience of finding the right interim managers for PE firms and their portfolio companies.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
What is interim management in private equity?
Interim management means hiring senior executives (CEO, CFO, COO and others) on a temporary basis to implement change quickly and increase value in portfolio companies.
How long do interim assignments in PE firms last?
Interim assignments in PE-owned companies normally last 6–12 months, depending on complexity and needs.
What does an interim manager cost for PE firms?
The cost varies with the role and experience. You only pay for the days the interim manager works, and interim managers typically deliver a very good ROI compared with permanent appointments.
Agile Interim – your partner for interim management in the Nordics
Agile Interim specialises in supporting both Norwegian and international PE firms with experienced interim managers. Would you like to know how interim management can strengthen value creation in your investments?
Contact Agile Interim for a no-obligation conversation.
