An interim leader can be described as:

• A top-level independent executive or project manager
• An expert in his or her field
• A high-level performer with a track record of quantifiable achievement
• A possessor of drive and energy
• A perceptive individual capable of adapting to new environments and delivering results
• Available immediately

A Luxury Consult interim Leader can function in strategic or operational capacities, or both. The interim’s value is “to bridge the performance vacuum between transition events and to avoid the deep declines and valleys common with a full-time employment strategy.” While an interim is effective in either a strategic or operational role, the interim’s critical contribution is to accelerate, redefine, and deliver organizational change. This might not necessarily be the same as a “bridge”. It is important to understand the term “interim” in this context. Interim does not necessarily mean a holding, transitional role between permanent appointments. Indeed, for an interim leader this is rarely the case. The reason an interim leader brings value to an organization has a completely different dimension than to provide cover. An interim is a change agent, dynamic achiever, and motivated fixer!

A Luxury Consult interim leader works with the partner organization for a temporary period of time and is not a threat to succession planning. A strong consequence of hiring an interim is to introduce talent, drive, and delivery into an organization. Having an interim leader on board inspires others to raise their game, provides excellent on-site mentoring, and disturbs any inertia that may exist. As an interim leader, he/she will adds gravitas and is a heavyweight resource who can make a significant difference.