The number of firms recruiting interim managers has risen this year, according to the Interim Management Association’s (IMA) Ipsos MORI industry benchmark survey for Q1 2011.  

The report reveals a 29% increase in the number of interims undertaking special projects, a 20% rise in financial assignments and programme/project management assignments rising by almost a third (32%). Total new assignments started in this quarter increased by 13%, compared to the previous quarter and is the highest level recorded since Q2 of 2010.

Jason Atkinson, IMA chair says: “Given the choppy and uncertain economic conditions, this renewed demand for interim managers is positive. Interims with vital niche skills in project management and financial expertise, who are able to lead companies through tough challenges and deliver new growth are evidently most attractive to businesses right now.  For many companies, interim managers are ‘just what the doctor ordered’ in terms of helping UK businesses grow both domestically and internationally in difficult times.”