Frequently Asked Questions
Click on a question below.
When should I consider using an Interim Manager?
How long is a typical assignment?
Are all assignments full time?
What functions does Interea typically help Clients with?
Where are the assignments that Interea handles?
How long does it take to have an Interim Manager in place?
How experienced are the Interim Managers?
How committed are the Interim Managers?
Does an Interim Manager ever become a permanent member of staff?
How expensive are Interim Managers?
Why should I work with Interea?
When should I consider using an Interim Manager?
There are many situations that prompt companies to consider the use of an Interim manager.
- The unexpected departure of a key employee. The search for a permanent replacement is underway, but it is likely to be 6-9 months before someone is in place. There is important work to be done now.
- There is a specific project for which there are well-defined end-points. The need is for someone quickly who has the experience to get things done, and who will be happy to move on when the work is completed.
- The company is in its early days and has a critical milestone coming up in 12 months time. Attempts to recruit a high-calibre individual to join the company on a permanent basis are likely to be problematic, but the need exists now to make sure the company delivers on its promises.
- The company is undergoing change, there is a hiring freeze and much uncertainty about future roles. Nevertheless, business must move forward.
- Maternity / paternity leave.
How long is a typical assignment?
Every one is different. It all depends on what prompted the need for an Interim Manager, and what has to be achieved. Typically, the shortest duration is 3 months. The longest we have been involved with is 18 months.
For many assignments, it is impossible at the beginning to know exactly how long they will last. (e.g. whilst recruiting for a permanent employee). More than 50% of the assignments we handle are extended beyond the initial phase.
Are all assignments full time?
No. About half are full time, with the other half varying from one day per week to four. For certain roles, it is sometimes easier to think of an average number of days per week over the course of the assignment.
What functions does Interea typically help Clients with?
We have experience in all middle to senior level functions. These include:-
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Where are the assignments that Interea handles?
Almost all of our assignments are in the UK and continental Europe (although we have placed experienced Interim Managers in the US and the Far East).
Within the UK, we have worked wherever there are life science companies. All areas of England, as well as Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Outside of the UK, we can point to a long record of success in Germany, Switzerland, France, Ireland, The Netherlands, Belgium, Sweden, Finland and Denmark.
How long does it take to have an Interim Manager in place?
Not long at all. We would expect to have a shortlist of candidates ready for review with the Client within a few working days after being given the go-ahead. Subsequent interviews and the taking of references can take place quickly.
How experienced are the Interim Managers?
Usually very experienced, and often over-qualified for the role they take on.
For an assignment of six months, the Client does not want someone for whom it takes two months to get up to speed.
How committed are the Interim Managers?
Very committed indeed:-
- Most have made Interim Management their career choice, and it is important for them to be seen to achieve the goals that were set.
- A proportion of the assignments often include a performance-based element of compensation.
Does an Interim Manager ever become a permanent member of staff?
Yes, Interea’s experience is that this happens on approximately 20% of occasions. For an increasing number of Clients, such a transition from interim to permanent is seen as a low-risk approach to recruitment.
How expensive are Interim Managers?
That really depends on the level of seniority the Client is looking for, and on the duration and intensity (days per week) of the assignment. The overall costs usually compare very favourably with those of a permanent employee when one takes into account the cost of pensions, holidays, National Insurance, sickness etc.
Why Should I Work With Interea?
A question we are often asked, and rightly so. How are we different, and why do we believe that working with Interea is going to bring success?
- Our Experience. Interea was established in 1998 and pioneered the use of Interim Management within the life sciences sector. Our track record is impressive and we have many Clients with whom we have worked for many years.
- Our Focus. By working exclusively within the life sciences, we understand your business, the issues facing it and the specific nature of any need that you may have.
- Our Interim Managers. Interea attracts the best and works hard to know them well.
- Our Customer Service. Policies and practices that bring clarity, speed and professionalism.
> Click here to view Our Interim Managers’ testimonials
> Click here to view Our Clients’ testimonials
