A New Generation of Interim Managers

Increasing numbers of talented employees are moving into the executive interim management market choosing this wider arena to excel and succeed. Interim management used to be a male dominated career with those close to retirement. The perfect choice for those who wanted more time on the golf course and less time in the office, whilst still earning enough to pay for long lunches at the nineteenth hole is now as outmoded as plus fours. With talent and skills in ever-increasing demand, interim management opens up the perfect playground to be recognised for key skills, whilst gaining a range of valuable experiences, and opportunities that might have been withheld in the past.

Nowadays, there are more women taking the interim route, recognising that there are key advantages to this freelance option. For women juggling a career with raising a child, interim management is very flexible allowing more control to balance home and work. There is also a growing recognition that some key elements of interim contracts can be undertaken at home, without the need to spend weeks in a hotel.

With the nature of interim management, there is downside and that is work is not guaranteed until the next work contract is negotiated. However, promotion prospects are much more achievable via this route as interim managers are assessed purely on skills and expertise. What a relief to be free from office politics, or judgement about potential maternity leave and to be respected purely for the skills that you bring to an assignment.

Interim management as a career path can offer greater potential for those with drive and ambition, regardless of age. Talented thirty somethings can build an impressive CV, without stepping on toes; undertaking an assignment with a clear remit, won’t pose a threat to the established workforce, as, after all, they are only temporary.

Interim management is here to stay and doing well, in part, as a direct result of shaking up traditional corporate demographics. Perhaps the only threat it might pose is to the ‘old boys’ on the golf course.

For fast access to senior executive talent and interim managers – Intramezzo provide recruitment solutions bridging the gap between consulting and interim management. Visit their website at http://www.intramezzo.co.uk

By Derek Green, expert Interim Management career advisor for those looking for Senior Executive Jobs.