Interim Management
Unlocking top talent and securing exceptional leadershipThere are moments when you can’t wait to find the perfect permanent hire for leadership transitions, crisis response, M&A activity, or business transformation.
When leadership continuity is critical, CORNERSTONE offers trusted Interim Management Services —delivering seasoned leaders who can step in swiftly, lead confidently, and deliver results during pivotal moments. CORNERSTONE’s Interim Management Services connects you with high-impact professionals who are ready to meet specific business needs, offering a cost-effective alternative to traditional hiring models. Backed by two decades of executive search excellence, we ensure organizations across industries get the leadership support they need—without delay.
Why Interim Executive Management Is on the Rise in India
As organizations navigate constant change—digital transformation, leadership churn, business realignment, and regulatory pressures—the need for interim CXOs, CFOs, CHROs, and business heads is growing fast. Without long-term commitment, these leaders offer strategic stability, agility, and deep expertise.
Key Statistics
63% of interim leaders globally command €800 to €1,400 per day, making it a cost-effective leadership solution.
Source: Interim Executives Survey – Globalise
Over 70% of Indian companies are exploring flexible executive hiring models for transformation roles, especially in IT and BFSI sectors.
Source: CORNERSTONE Internal CXO Trends 2024 (based on client conversations)
The average time to onboard a permanent C-suite hire in India is 4–8 months, while interim executives can be deployed in less than 10 days.
Source: CORNERSTONE Search Insights
According to a 2023 Business Talent Group report, interim leadership has seen a 170% increase globally since 2022 and a 23% YoY growth, with growing adoption in emerging markets like India. (Source: BTG High-End Independent Talent Report)
How does Interim management service help organisations?
Interim Management Services help organizations by providing experienced, high-impact leaders on a short-term basis to address specific challenges or opportunities. Here’s how we create value at Cornerstone,
- Business Continuity During Transition
When a key executive departs unexpectedly or during a leadership gap, interim leaders ensure operations continue smoothly until a permanent hire is made.
- Crisis Management & Turnaround
Interim managers bring specialized expertise in navigating crises—be it financial distress, operational inefficiencies, or organizational restructuring.
- Change & Transformation Projects
They help drive transformation initiatives (e.g., digitalization, post-merger integration, market expansion) with focused leadership and minimal internal disruption.
- Specialized Skills for Short-Term Needs
Interim executives offer niche expertise that might not exist internally—perfect for project-based roles, compliance audits, or entering new markets.
- Objective & Unbiased Perspective
With no long-term internal bias, interim leaders can assess situations objectively, make bold decisions, and implement tough changes when required.
- Cost-Effective Solution
Hiring an interim leader avoids long-term compensation commitments, making it a flexible and efficient solution for temporary executive needs.
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FAQs
What is interim executive management, and how does it work in India?
Interim executive management involves placing experienced professionals in temporary leadership roles to manage change, lead projects, or bridge vacancies. In India, it's gaining traction due to its flexibility and high impact.
How quickly can CORNERSTONE place an interim executive?
We typically place interim leaders within 7–10 business days, drawing from our extensive talent network across India.
Are interim leaders effective compared to permanent executives?
Yes. Interim leaders bring deep experience and are goal-focused, often delivering results in 30–90 days, especially in turnaround or project-based scenarios.
What sectors are most suited for interim leadership in India?
High-growth and high-change sectors like Tech, BFSI, Pharma, and Manufacturing benefit the most from interim leadership.
Can interim leadership be a precursor to a permanent role?
Absolutely. Many of our clients use interim leadership as a ‘try-before-you-hire’ model for permanent CXO roles.
What levels of leadership does CORNERSTONE support for interim placements?
We offer interim placements across C-suite (CEO, CFO, CHRO, etc.), business unit heads, and project-specific leadership roles.
How does CORNERSTONE ensure cultural fit with interim leaders?
We conduct detailed diagnostics of your organizational needs, leadership culture, and strategic goals to match the right interim leader—not just in skill but in mindset.