Done right, interim hiring can be a catalyst for positive culture change, not a threat to it.
- Elly Kusters
- 9 jun
- 2 minuten om te lezen
Interim hires often get a bad rep. They’re brought in quickly, stay for a short time, and leave just as the team starts getting used to them. So, it’s no surprise that some business leaders worry about how an interim could disrupt their culture.
But at JEK, with over 15 years of experience placing interim HR and Finance professionals, we’ve in fact, seen the opposite happen time and time again.
Done right, interim hiring can be a catalyst for positive culture change, not a threat to it.
Fresh Eyes, Fresh Thinking
One of the greatest values an interim brings is perspective. They’re not bogged down by internal politics, historical baggage, or "how things have always been done." This neutrality allows them to:
Spot inefficiencies others overlook
Surface underlying tensions or unspoken team dynamics
Suggest improvements without fear of ruffling feathers
It’s a rare opportunity: someone who can say what needs to be said and actually has the experience to fix it.
Culture Doesn’t Mean Consensus
Sometimes, "culture fit" is used as a shield against new ideas. But culture isn't about everyone thinking the same way, it’s about shared values, open communication, and trust.
Interims who are aligned with those values can actually help reinforce and evolve culture in ways internal hires may not:
They role model adaptability
They bring in tried-and-tested frameworks
They can mediate conflict or support transformation with less emotional baggage
In many ways, a great interim can reset the tone of a team, especially in times of change or pressure.
When Performance Is the Priority
Interims are often hired to deliver outcomes, fast. They step in during maternity covers, restructures, or urgent business shifts. But performance doesn’t have to come at the cost of people. In fact, our best interim placements:
Build rapport quickly
Communicate transparently with teams
Leave behind better processes and stronger habits
In short: they don’t just hold the fort. They leave it stronger than they found it.
The Secret? Match More Than Just the CV
Not all interims are created equal. That’s why at JEK, we focus on people before placements. We know the individuals in our network, their personalities, leadership styles, and track records. That lets us:
Handpick talent that fits the team vibe
Avoid clashes or misalignment
Deliver shortlists in 24 hours, without compromising on quality or culture fit
It’s about matching human to human not just role to résumé.
Interims don’t have to be a culture risk. In fact, the right interim, placed with care and insight, can be the exact spark your team needs.
So, if you're considering bringing someone in, whether for transformation, cover, or crisis, think of it not just as a stop-gap, but as a potential upgrade. Need help finding someone who will hit the ground running and lift your team culture? We’d love to chat.
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