Interim management in Europe: The growth of flexible leadership

Recent research by global talent solutions specialist Robert Walters shows that more and more organisations in Europe are using interim managers to provide flexible solutions to strategic and urgent business needs. Interim management allows companies to quickly bring in experienced professionals for temporary expertise, project management assignments and crisis management. José Bokhorst, CEO at Robert Walters, elaborates on the trends and preferences of European organisations when relying on interim managers in 2025.  

Why do organisations opt for interim managers?  

Organisations in Europe hire interim managers because of their expertise in project management, temporary need for specific skills or support in restructuring and change management processes. José Bokhorst explains: “The uncertain market conditions, such as economic fluctuations, geopolitical tensions and technological disruption, force organisations to operate more flexibly. Interim managers offer the experience and clout needed to move quickly; for example, in mergers, digitalisation projects or sudden capacity problems.”  

This trend is in line with a broader movement in the labour market where agility and resilience are key. Organisations are more often faced with unpredictable situations: from a sudden departure in the management team to regulations that require quick adaptation. Interim managers bring not only expertise but also a fresh perspective from outside, which makes them particularly valuable in change processes and breaking internal patterns.  

Interim managers are also gaining importance in sectors under pressure. In industry, for example, there is a need for expertise in digitalisation, supply chain optimisation and cost efficiency. Interim managers with experience in lean management or operational transformation offer direct added value here. In the financial sector, where compliance requirements are constantly changing and digitalisation radically changes the role of departments, interim professionals provide extra clout in, for example, audit projects, mergers or IT implementations.  

Speed and immediate impact as greatest asset  

No less than 39% of European organisations cite speed and immediate impact as an important reason for hiring interim managers. José: “Interim managers are known for their speed and fresh, external perspective. They also ensure short-term results - without the need for a lengthy recruitment process. Whether it is to bridge a capacity problem, guide a restructuring or lead an urgent project: interim managers offer immediate impact and strengthen teams exactly when it is needed.”

Longer assignments in Belgium 

The average duration of interim management assignments in Europe is between 6 and 12 months. However, Belgium is an exception, where assignments sometimes last longer. In long-term assignments, interim managers often fulfil a very crucial strategic role. They provide temporary support and also contribute to long-term projects and structural changes.  

Interim Managers increasingly considered in 2025  

In Europe, 66% of organisations surveyed are considering using an interim manager this year. This trend shows an increased value of flexible, temporary solutions for organisations that need to adapt to dynamic market conditions. José Bokhorst concludes: “In an uncertain economic environment, the demand for interim managers is increasing. They can intervene quickly with the right expertise, allowing organisations to adapt or accelerate their strategy without compromising on quality or results.”

More information

All statistics in this article are based on a large-scale interim management survey conducted by global talent solutions specialist Robert Walters in February 2025. The survey included both interim management professionals and organisations across Belgium, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Germany, France, Spain, Ireland, and the UK.

Download the study results free of charge at the following link: Free access: Interim Management Trends & Daily Rates 2025

Are you interested in the targeted appointment of an interim professional? Our consultants have a strong network of experienced interim experts - feel free to contact us. We will get back to you shortly.