Information for Interim Executives
They are senior managers or executives with specialist, general management or senior project management skills, who join organizations temporarily to do a specific job.
When would an interim manager be required?
Interim managers are in great demand because they don't tell clients what they should do - they come in and actually get the job done.
They step into a role . . . Interim managers often help clients through a crisis, such as if an executive is ill or leaves. Sometimes they fill the gap when someone is promoted, or on parental leave.
Or provide an extra pair of hands . . . Some companies use them to take on extra tasks that would overstretch their current team, or as a temporary replacement for employees who have been seconded to special projects
. . . . and bring specialist expertise or experience. Interim managers can provide expertise that a company doesn't have in house but doesn't want to hire for permanently. Examples include investigation of an M&A opportunity or business turnaround, or management of a large-scale project.
Sometimes, it's a trial run. In some cases, organizations prefer to hire senior talent on an interim basis before hiring to a full time position. However, the vast majority of our clients require support on a temporary basis only, and this is our primary focus. Are you a candidate? Here are the characteristics we're looking for.
Commitment to the concept of interim management
We are looking for professionals who wish to make interim management their career, or individuals who are looking for full-time permanent employment but are able and willing to take on short term contracts.
Senior level experience
Our clients need someone to walk in, take charge, and achieve the deliverables. So, whatever your industry or discipline, we need senior managers or directors with a track record in leading teams and delivering results. Our interim managers are seasoned executives with in general 15-20 years of proven management experience, usually with a minimum of 5 years at the executive level (CxO, VP, or Director).
Specialist, senior general management or senior project management skills
You don't need to be an experienced interim executive, but you do need to have the skills - particularly project management capabilities - to meet a specific need such as overseeing a business team, implementing a major project or IT initiative, or standing in for a senior manager or executive. Specific areas of expertise could include the following:
- Senior functional experience in areas such as finance, IT, sales, marketing, operations, HR, legal/regulatory affairs, or general management, to name a few.
- Expertise in areas such as organizational development; organization effectiveness, culture and change management; business process reengineering or business transformation; customer relationship management; strategic outsourcing and partnerships; quality management; information technology development and systems implementation/integration; e-business; risk management; project management, among others.
Demonstrated ability to achieve results
Interim executives are in high demand because they get the job done. You need to be able to focus and act decisively and quickly.
The flexibility to adapt to new environments
Interim management is an excellent career move for people who are looking for exposure to different industries, corporate cultures and opportunities. It is particularly suited to those who are interested in a career with more variety, flexibility, and control over the work that you do. However, it is critical that interim managers be able to be flexible to new environments. You must have strong capability at assessing and adapting to situations, combined with outstanding communication and interpersonal skills.
A sense of urgency
Interim management is fast moving by nature. Our clients often require interim resources in a matter of days, which means we need to connect with you quickly. We may need you to move quickly into some assignments.
The Knightsbridge Interim Executives process
We find opportunities and match them to the skills of our interim managers
Through our broad client base - literally, the who's who in Canadian business circles - we have a comprehensive network of clients and senior level contacts. This means a wide range of outstanding interim opportunities will be available for our interim managers. There is no fee to become part of the Knightsbridge team of interim executives, but you must match the skills and experience we are looking for to be considered for a position. Assignments are generally 3 - 9 months.
We call you first to see if you are interested
We will be in touch with you if an appropriate assignment comes up. We will always contact you first to see if you are interested and will only send your profile to clients with your approval.
You invoice us, not the client
We do our best to make things easy for you, so you invoice us monthly for your assignments, not the client. The invoice is based on the number of days you worked for the client, and you work on a per diem rather than salary.
You need to have a GST number
When working as an interim executive, it is important to establish yourself as an external supplier of professional services rather than being considered an employee. The Canada Customs and Revenue Agency has strict rules governing individuals who provide professional services. It's standard practice for interim managers to be self-employed and operate as an incorporated company, with their own GST number. Professional indemnity insurance is strongly recommended. If you work on an interim assignment of less than 6 months, it is not required for you to be incorporated, but we strongly recommend this as well - you will be protecting yourself to a greater extent, and you will realize greater tax benefits, as incorporated companies are taxed at a lower rate than individuals. It is mandatory for Knightsbridge's interim executives to have a GST number.
For more information, see useful links below.
Why work with Knightsbridge Interim Executives?
You'll have access to a tremendous array of interim opportunities.
Though Knightsbridge's broad client base - literally the who's who in Canadian business circles - we have an extensive network of clients and senior level contacts. This means a wide range of outstanding interim positions will be available to our candidates.
You'll receive the support you need to hit the ground running.
Not only do we provide detailed orientation assistance at the beginning of any assignment, we also supply you and the client organization with the tools and information you need to develop a roadmap for success. And we don't leave it there - we contact you while on assignment to assess your satisfaction with the interim position.
You'll hear from us before we tell a client about you.
We'll always be in touch and confirm your availability and interest in an assignment before sending any information to our clients.
You'll be proud to be associated with us.
Knightsbridge, a leader in the human capital management field, is known for quality, integrity and professionalism. Our growing ranks of interim managers represent the best of Canadian executive talent.
Want to be an Interim Manager?
If you meet our criteria, we'd like to hear from you. Registration is easy - just fill in our form and we will be in touch if a suitable position comes up. We will always contact you first to see if you are interested and will only send your resume to a client with your approval. Or maybe you're already a Knightsbridge interim executive, but some information has changed for you? Let us know. Re-submit your information and include an up to date resume.
Useful Links
The following are useful links that may be of assistance to you as you explore getting a GST number, incorporating, and other relevant issues associated with being an interim executive.
Ontario Business Connects (all the information you could ever want and links to other sites...)
Canada/Ontario Business Service Centre (see the "Getting Started" and "Taxation" sections)
On-line Business Registration (links to CCRA, and additional information on attaining a business number, GST/HST numbers, etc.)
Canada Customs and Revenue Agency (general information about taxation for businesses and self-employed individuals)