FAQ

While the idea of an Interim Executive isn't an entirely new one, we understand that you may have some questions, and understandably so. Read through a few of our more frequently asked questions here!

Why should I consider hiring an Interim Executive?

1.     Strategic opportunities exist when a change of leadership has occurred.  Today, interim leaders represent a national movement of professionals and a new career alternative for experienced nonprofit experts who help prepare an organization for successful retention and placement of the new executive.

2.     When an unexpected vacancy occurs in the chief executive, a crisis can be created that reverberates throughout the entire organization and erodes board, staff, and donor confidence.  Short term interventions include placing a Board member into the role or re-assigning duties to other staff.  Because of the complexities and demands of the position, these short-term solutions have become inadequate. Often, the Board of Directors become too involved in day-to-day operations and an assigned staff must juggle competing roles while being stretched beyond capacity.

3.     Depending on the needs of the organization, the Interim Executive can be hired for a 6-18 month period. , They assume Executive Director/President CEO responsibilities until the new candidate is placed.  In today’s market, this takes a minimum of 6 months.

What does an Interim Executive provide?

1.     An experienced Executive lends credibility to both internal and external stakeholders while a search process is completed.  Routinely, they provide an Organizational Assessment for the Board of Directors to identify gaps/challenges that need immediate attention.  An Interim performs all the functions of the Executive Director, including administrative, programmatic, fund development, and Board governance activities.  As needed, they can assist with Strategic Planning, increase organizational efficiencies, manage HR processes for hiring and separation, perform government contract negotiations, and continue the efforts of donor relationships combined with community visibility/advocacy.

2.     An Interim assures that the Board of Directors continues with functions of good governance and that the resource of time, for Board members, remains with the hiring of the best matched candidate.

How does hiring an Interim Executive help?

1.     An interim leader, always hired as a temporary employee, but acting as a skilled consultant works from the inside outward, helps the organization understand and apply current best practices in nonprofit management and governance.  They additionally build the capacity of the organization to sustain resiliency during a transitional leadership state.

2.     Interims are cost effective solutions, typically working 16-32 hours weekly and using the organization’s allocated resources from the vacated position.

3.     In short, an Interim Executive creates a strong foundation for the new hire while allowing ample time and resource to ensure the best candidate for successful full time placement.