Market insights and trends - Q3 2022
As we move into autumn and the final quarter of 2022, most of you will now be working on your strategies and plans for next year. Interim roles, which have soared this year, are likely to feature heavily as they provide much-needed strategic and operational support during challenging times.
A focus on interim
While we will always see a flow of interim Head of Marketing-type roles and the need for maternity/parental cover, companies are now recruiting for interim roles at the most senior levels, as they seek a combination of strategic insights and delivery of tangible outputs. These specialist roles have huge remits, substantial remuneration (£180k - £250k+ base or £1200 - £2000+ day rate) and there is a swift recruitment process. Our recent interim roles included Interim Chief Brand Officer, Interim Chief Marketing Officer, Interim Customer Experience Director and Interim Customer Strategy Director, and candidates were in place within four weeks, or sooner.
Interim for consultancy
Alongside exceptional roles and salaries, we are seeing a change in the way companies are using interim roles too, alongside or in place of management consultancy firms. One well-known FTSE 350 consumer brand has decided not to use a management consultancy firm at all. Instead, they will look at a senior interim specialist’s strategic output. Another brand will be using both management consultancy and a senior interim specialist, separately and then comparing results, enabling them to get the best of both worlds and to optimise strategic outputs. This is an extraordinary change in the way interim roles are being used and an exciting time for our clients and candidates.
Competition for candidates
After a huge rebound in recruitment last year, many senior leaders moved into new positions and more followed in the first half of this year. For this reason, a sizeable portion of candidates are not ready to move again. We are also seeing clients place a far greater emphasis on hiring candidates who can lead with emotional intelligence. As demand continues to outstrip supply, we urge clients to focus on retention both through training and development opportunities but also to work on creating a culture that offers a diversity of thought, genuine job satisfaction and flexibility.
If you’re looking to hire for interim or permanent senior leadership roles, or if you’re a ready to make your next career move, get in touch to see how we can help you or connect with us/send a message on LinkedIn.
With warmest regards,
the Suzie Walker Executive Search team
Suzie Walker Executive Search is a firm of specialist headhunters with an expert team recruiting interim and permanent senior leaders for marketing and digital roles in consumer-facing FTSE 350 and private equity-backed companies. Find out how we can support you by connecting with a Consultant below.