Over 60% of Interim Professionals Have Increased Their Rates

Robert Walters study reveals: Expertise, experience and rising demands are driving earning potential for interim managers

The interim market in Germany remains dynamic – and reflects a broader trend across Europe. These findings are based on the European Interim Management Study conducted by Robert Walters, which provides insights into current developments, daily rates, and key challenges in the interim landscape. Nearly 1,300 interim professionals across Europe were surveyed for this analysis.

Looking at the German market specifically, the results show that nearly 62 per cent of interim professionals have increased their rates over the past twelve months. The survey was conducted between mid-February and mid-March 2025 and included responses from 174 interim professionals based in Germany.

A variety of reasons for fee adjustments

There are several reasons for the rising rates: the most frequently mentioned were the need to offset inflation (over 19 per cent) and the increasing complexity and demands of interim assignments (over 17 per cent). Many respondents also cited the continuous development of expertise and experience (over 15 per cent) as key factors. Longer-term engagements enhance the specific value interim managers bring to a company, and newly acquired certifications or additional training have also contributed to rate adjustments.

Interim managers today play a much more strategic role than they did just a few years ago

,explains Thomas Hoffmann, Managing Director Germany at Robert Walters.
“Organisations are increasingly turning to external expertise to drive transformation or to fill urgent project roles with seasoned professionals. This not only requires technical know-how but also interpersonal sensitivity – something that is clearly reflected in the day rates.”

Earning potential on the rise – especially in finance

On average, companies are now paying around €1,300 per day for interim professionals – and the trend is upward. The most significant increases can be observed in finance and accounting. Interim professionals with specialised knowledge and solid project experience are now achieving substantially higher rates.

Companies now invest €1,300 or more per day for M&A Senior Consultants. Interim CFOs command a minimum of €1,500 per day, while Finance Directors typically start at €1,400. FP&A Managers are also reaching a new price level, averaging around €1,300 per day. In compliance, rates including margin currently stand at around €1,250, while risk managers are earning around €1,200 daily.

Positive developments in the IT sector

Although the interim IT market overall appears more restrained than in previous years, demand remains steady – and in some cases strong – in specific segments. Interim leadership roles in data management currently attract rates of around €1,300 per day. Companies are also budgeting approximately €1,200 for Enterprise Architects, and around €1,300 or more for SAP/ERP Consultants. Solution Architects focused on IT infrastructure, as well as IT Project Managers, are also operating in the €1,200+ range.

Gain further insights into current daily rates, market trends and possible applications - exclusively in the Interim Management Tool from Robert Walters.

A market with opportunities for both sides

The survey results highlight how the role and expectations of interim professionals are evolving. Increasingly, they are stepping into key positions during critical project phases or actively supporting complex change initiatives.

“We’re seeing that organisations are willing to pay appropriate rates for demonstrably qualified experts – especially when they deliver measurable results in a short period of time,” adds Hoffmann.
“In times of economic uncertainty, interim management is gaining further traction as a flexible employment model – offering experienced professionals a wide range of opportunities.”