Interim role · CEO

Interim CEO – a senior executive who brings direction, calm and momentum

An interim CEO is brought in when a business needs clear leadership quickly – often during a transition, crisis, growth phase, or turnaround, or while the board considers a permanent solution. The goal is not simply to keep the seat warm. It is to maintain momentum, control, and the right direction.

Do you need a CEO quickly? About interim management
Hilde Lekven, Managing Partner at Agile Gruppen, at the meeting table

When is an interim CEO the right choice?

Typical situations
  • a sudden departure or unexpected vacancy at the top
  • a crisis or turnaround that requires experience
  • growth or transformation that requires capacity
  • while the board conducts a thorough search
What the role needs to address
  • establish direction and calm quickly
  • maintain momentum in operations and decisions
  • provide reassurance to the organisation, customers, and market
  • prepare a smooth transition to a permanent leader
Not to keep the seat warm. To maintain momentum, control, and the right direction – from day one.
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Interim CEO vs. permanent CEO

Interim

Interim CEO

In place quickly for a defined period. Takes operational responsibility from day one and keeps things moving while the lasting solution is determined.

Permanent

Permanent CEO

The result of a thorough executive search. The right long-term match for strategy, culture, and ownership – without time pressure.

How we work

From the first conversation to a smooth transition – a precise process that maintains speed without compromising judgement.

We clarify the situation

A brief, confidential conversation about the role, context, and timeline. We understand what is really at stake before making a recommendation.

We assess the right approach

Is interim management the right choice – or is the answer search, a board solution, or a combination? If it is not the right step, we say so.

We present candidates quickly

Experienced leaders from a qualified candidate pool, within 48 hours. Assessed for both expertise and context – not just their CVs.

We follow through every step of the way

Close follow-up throughout the assignment and a smooth transition to a permanent solution when the time is right.

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Frequently asked questions

How quickly can an interim CEO be in place?

We present candidates within 48 hours. When the leader can start depends on the complexity and context of the role.

Does an interim CEO take real responsibility?

Yes. An interim CEO takes full operational responsibility from day one – real leadership, rather than an advisory role.

Can the interim period lead to a permanent hire?

Yes. We can move on to an executive search, and the interim period often provides valuable insight into what the role actually requires.

Your contact
Portrait of Hilde Lekven

Hilde Lekven

Managing Partner

Let’s have a no-obligation chat

You don’t need to have the answer ready. Tell me what you are facing, and together we will work out the right next step – with no obligation.

Call Hilde directly +47 952 82 591

Or ask me to call you

Takes less than a minute. I reply within one working day.
  • Full confidentiality
  • No obligation
  • Reply within one working day