Difference between an Interim Manager and a consultant

In times of change and uncertainty, companies are often faced with the challenge of finding a timely and effective solution to their business problems. This is where the use of external experts can be helpful. Two of these solutions are the Interim Manager and the consultant. Both can play an important role in supporting companies, but there are also differences between the two.

An Interim Manager is usually appointed to take on a specific role in a company for a limited period of time. This may be the case, for example, if an important manager leaves the company and the company needs time to find a suitable successor. In this case, the Interim Manager assumes responsibility for the position and ensures continuity, while the company can concentrate on finding a permanent replacement. An Interim Manager can also be used in other cases, for example to implement changes or to bridge bottlenecks.

A consultant, on the other hand, is usually hired by a company to analyse a specific area or solve a specific problem. This may include optimising business processes, introducing new technologies or improving marketing strategy. A consultant is an expert in their field and is hired for their specific skills and experience. Unlike an Interim Manager, the consultant does not take on a permanent role in the company, but usually works on a project basis.

Another important difference between Interim Managers and consultants is that Interim Managers usually play a more active role in the company. They take responsibility and lead teams to drive the organisation forward and achieve their goals. Consultants, on the other hand, usually work less directly with the company's employees and work more in the background.

Overall, then, there are differences between an Interim Manager and a consultant. While Interim Managers are often brought in for a limited period of time to take over a leadership position or guide a company through a change, a consultant is usually hired to solve a specific task or problem. Interim Managers often play a more active role in the organisation, leading teams, while consultants usually work in the background. However, both can provide vital support for organisations to succeed in times of change and uncertainty.