A Skandinavian industrial company needed to establish a new manufacturing plant in Asia – fast. The challenge wasn’t the vision and strategy, but execution: navigating local regulations, supply chains, and cultural dynamics while staying aligned with the management team.
The company asked our sister company Nordic Interim – A Valtus company to look for a experienced manager. An interim COO with deep experience in Asian operations and a Skandinavian leadership mindset was in place within two weeks. After eight months, the plant was up and running, the team was in place, and the business was operating smoothly.
“We didn’t need a consultant; we needed a leader who could take full ownership from day one. That’s exactly what we got.”
When speed, trust, and cross-border expertise are essential, Interim Leadership delivers real impact.
Trends that are shaping the growth of IM
1. Shift Toward Business-Critical and Transformation Roles
More European companies are turning to interim executives not just to “fill gaps” but to drive complex transformations, restructurings, or strategic initiatives. Demand is especially strong for interim CFOs, CEOs, and COOs with proven experience in:
- M&A integration
- Digital transformation
- Restructuring
- Operational turnaround
- Crisis or change leadership
⟶ This positions Executive Interim Management as a strategic resource, not just a temporary fix.
2. Increased Use by Private Equity and Family-Owned Companies
PE firms and family businesses in are increasingly relying on interim executives to:
- Accelerate value creation pre- or post-transaction
- Professionalize operations
- Manage leadership transitions with minimal disruption
⟶ They value the speed, accountability, and expertise interim leaders bring, without long-term commitments.
3. Cross-Border Assignments Are Rising
With European companies expanding globally and international firms investing in Europe, there’s a growing need for interim leaders who:
- Can lead cross-border teams
- Understand multi-market regulatory environments
- Have cultural fluency and global leadership experience
⟶ Executive Interim Management is becoming more international, with networks like Valtus Alliance enabling access to top talent worldwide.
4. More Executives Choosing Interim as a Career
Senior leaders in Europe and also in America and Asia are increasingly opting into interim work—not due to necessity, but for:
- Greater autonomy
- Project variety
- The ability to make a real impact without long-term politics
⟶ This growing supply of experienced, motivated professionals strengthens the overall quality and appeal of the interim market.
5. Boards and Owners Are Becoming More Comfortable with Interim Executives
Cultural attitudes are shifting. What was once seen as a last resort is now a smart strategic choice. Boards and owners are:
- More educated on what interims can deliver
- Familiar with using them in sensitive or high-stakes situations
- Building long-term relationships with interim providers
⟶ This growing trust fuels repeat usage and faster decision-making when gaps or challenges arise.
Fazit
If an industrial company wants to set up a manufacturing plant abroad, hiring an experienced interim executive is an attractive option. If you have such a need, we would be happy to support you with our global network, the Valtus Alliance.