The Role of an Interim Manager

Article courtesy of Interim Partners

In general, interim management roles are usually contract positions with defined targets and end goals. The responsibilities of the position vary from contract to contract. For example, one position could be a ‘caretaker’ role, where the interim manager fills in until a permanent manager is found for a well-functioning area that is dealing with the unexpected absence of a manager due to death, illness or sudden leave of absence. On the other end of the scale are positions with highly demanding and analytical responsibilities. Interim managers are often brought in to deal with a crisis or period of change within a company, such as takeovers, mergers and IPOs.

Interim managers are expected to bring a level of impartiality and objective thinking to their role. This allows them to analyse current working structures and implement solutions to any problems they identify. They will often be required to work closely with the CEO or board of directors, reporting on their progress, analysis and results.

Considerations before Embarking Upon a Career as an Interim Manager

Interim management jobs are a tempting prospect for many people who are considering a change in their career path. There are a lot of interim roles to choose from, starting a search for interim jobs here  would be a good place to gather information on the different interim roles available. These positions offer a degree of control over working life that are rarely found in other management positions, as interim managers move from company to company as and when they take on new roles. This flexibility allows interim managers to structure their working time around their other commitments and preferences. For example, a career as an interim manager can be highly appealing to those with young families, as they can choose to avoid contracts that would require them to work during the school holidays. Trying to arrange holidays for the whole summer would be nigh impossible in a conventional management position.

This is not to say that interim management careers are right for everyone. Often, these positions require long hours of work and a short notice period before the contract starts. After all, an interim manager is frequently hired due to the unexpected absence of an integral manager or when a company is in crisis - by definition unforeseen events. However, these challenges can appeal to many, who relish the prospect of taking a hands-on and decisive approach to a particular area of business.

Another factor to consider when thinking about making a career move into interim management is the kind of interpersonal relationships that can be expected. The temporary nature of the role is not necessarily conducive to the formation of deep workplace friendships, which can be a drawback for the sociable. On the other hand, office politics are less of a factor to fear, as any personal differences can be left behind when the contract is over.

Making a Career as an Interim Manager

It is possible to gain experience of the skills required of an interim manager while salaried by a company. When the circumstances that require interim management arise, companies may well look for an internal candidate before seeking an outside contractor. By taking advantage of any such opportunities within their current company, those who wish to embark upon a career in interim management can develop the skills and experience that they will need to demonstrate when working independently.

Interim managers will need strong people-management and analytical skills. They will need to be able to demonstrate previous results, whether from their experience in a leadership position within a previous company or from previous roles as an interim manager. Previous experience of strong, successful management through crises or tumultuous times can demonstrate mastery of the required skills for the role.

Various agencies supply interim managers to companies who are seeking their assistance. Registration with one or more of these agencies can allow prospective interim managers to discover whether their skills are of a level to be suitable for the position and gain access to potential employers.