Trends in Interim Management in Europe 2025.

Where is the greatest demand, and what challenges lie ahead?

Interim Management, just a few years ago, was mainly associated with firefighting in companies. Today, it is a strategic tool for development and transformation, increasingly used by organizations in Poland and across Europe.

As shown by the latest data from the SIM 2025 Report and the INIMA study European Interim Management Trends 2025, the demand for experienced Interim Managers continues to grow, and their role now goes far beyond crisis management.

Interim Management – From Crisis Response to Growth Strategy

Just a few years ago, Interim Managers were most often brought in during emergency situations — such as the sudden resignation of a key leader, restructuring, or declining performance.
Today, companies are using Interim Management proactively, treating it as a tool for implementing strategy, developing new business lines, or driving international expansion.

Industries with the Highest Demand in 2025

According to the SIM and INIMA reports, in 2025 the highest demand for Interim Managers is found in the following sectors:

• industry and related sectors – 41% of projects,
• FMCG and services – high and stable share,
• IT and digital transformation – a rapidly growing segment.

It is precisely the digitization of processes and technological transformation that have become the main drivers of change. Organizations need leaders who can combine management skills with technological expertise and adaptability to change.

The most common areas of support provided by Interim Managers include:

• change management (11% of projects),
• business development (11%),
• process optimization and restructuring.

Europe 2025: Where Is the Interim Management Market most mature?

The largest number of projects is carried out in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and Italy, which form the core of the European Interim Management market. In these countries, companies treat collaboration with Interim Managers as a regular part of their HR and talent management strategy. Poland remains an emerging market, but with growing potential. Year by year, the number of companies using interim services is increasing, particularly in the manufacturing, technology, and private equity sectors.

Key Interim Management Trends for 2025:

1. Growing Optimism and Strategic Projects

Most European Interim Managers view market prospects positively. The increase in strategic and transformational projects confirms that the role of Interim Managers is shifting from “firefighting” toward creating long-term value.

2. Artificial Intelligence and Automation of Matches

Companies providing Interim Management services are increasingly using AI and data analytics to match skills to client needs more quickly. This shortens the recruitment process and enhances project efficiency.

3. Cost pressure and the expectation of quick results

Na dojrzałych rynkach (Niemcy, UK) widoczna jest rosnąca konkurencja cenowa i presja na realne efekty w krótkim czasie.
To wymusza większą elastyczność i skuteczność Interim Managerów.

4. Diversity and global teams

An increasing number of projects take place in international and multicultural environments. Interim Managers must be able to lead remote, distributed teams and communicate effectively across different cultural contexts.

Challenges and risks of Interim Management

The dynamic growth of the market is also associated with challenges that will become increasingly noticeable in the coming years. Among them, the following can be highlighted:

• dependence on economic conditions and geopolitical risks;
• mismatch of skills, particularly in the context of rapid technological changes;
• reputational risk – automation of the selection process (AI) may lead to incorrect matches.

Therefore, continuous skills development and investment in digital competencies become crucial, while simultaneously maintaining the human dimension of management.

Why do companies turn to Interim Managers?

Today, Interim Management is no longer just a response to a crisis.
Companies choose to work with Interim Managers in order to:

• implement a new business strategy
• execute a major transformation project,
• enter a new market,
• ensure operational continuity during a transitional period.

This solution provides immediate access to experienced leaders who can operate effectively from the very first day of the project.

Stalwart Manacus – partner in transformational projects

At Stalwart Manacus, we support organizations in sourcing experienced Interim Managers and executing transformational projects — from strategy and change management to restructuring.

We provide managers who not only respond to challenges but also shape the organization’s future, creating lasting value and fostering a culture of efficiency.

📧 biuro@stalwart-manacus.pl
✆ +48 509 660 343

Sources:

• SIM Report 2025 – Interim Management Market Study in Poland
• INIMA – European Interim Management Trends 2025
• DDIM – European Interim Management: 2025 Insights and Predictions
• IIM – Interim Management Survey 2025
• Manage HR Magazine – Evolving Role of Interim Management Suppliers in Europe