In any business, there are times when the business needs support that cannot wait because the normal cycle becomes disrupted. Interim executives bring in their anchored experience and step in with the calm confidence that allows the team to breathe. Five examples are below.
Sudden Change: Stabilising Leadership
When companies experience the loss of a senior leader, the shift in atmosphere can be palpable. Concerns from the team and decreased momentum can lead to stagnation in decision-making. Findings highlight that interim leaders must navigate change with skill, providing stability for staff while maintaining momentum toward the organisation’s mission and vision.
The prompt, equilibrium, and performance sustaining focus of an interim leader allows the board to slow down and make the right permanent decision and provides the calm atmosphere to make that decision.
Driving Transformation That Has Stalled
Excitement is common in the launch phase of any transformation initiative. However, time often causes that enthusiasm to diminish, and on occasion, the initiative can stop altogether. Having an interim leader can be a net positive in that situation because it can motivate the team and shift the focus to the important issues to propel the organisation in a positive direction.
Strengthening capability during rapid growth
This rapid growth cycle can be one of the most rewarding experiences, but it can also be a strain on the company. It is common for companies to outgrow their structures. An interim can provide the team with the upper management support to pause, implement the necessary order, and set the stage for sustainable scaling. Having an interim in place makes growth feel manageable again.
Preparing a business for investment or acquisition
With any business transaction, the pressure builds in the organisation as you near the finish line. Investors have questions, data is required, and deadlines are racing toward you. The detail challenges, however, are where interim leaders can provide their most impactful support.
The literature emphasises that interim leadership is a strategic short-term solution during periods of organisational change helping organisations stabilise, adapt, pivot, or grow. They guide the organisation seamlessly through the noise and provide support that enables the team to focus on the deliverables.
Crisis and recovery
Crises place the most severe challenges in front of the strongest teams. Each of these can create unprecedented strain. Interims provide calm, steady, communicative control during these kinds of challenges. They ensure the organisation gets back to equilibrium and can move on to more deliberate action.
Novo Conclusion
At Novo, we understand how impactful the right interim can be. Their presence can create that space to catch your breath and regain lost momentum when it’s most needed. Please reach out to us if transitioning is challenging or if you’d like to understand how interim leadership can support your company, and we will support you with transparency and compassion.
