A review of effective interim leadership and management: a cyclical model of interim assignments

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to carry out a literature review on interim leadership and management focusing on interim assignment performance and the antecedent characteristics of effective interim leaders.

Design/methodology/approach

A targeted review of the literature on the literature on interim leadership and management is carried out and reported.

Findings

A cycle of interim assignments is proposed consisting of four stages, preparation, entry, delivery and exit. Individual characteristics seen as antecedents of effectiveness are then applied to each of these stages.

Practical implications

The interim assignment cycle proposed in this paper can help to address gaps in the literature and aid the development of methods and tools for selection of interims and management of effectiveness during assignments.

Originality/value

This paper has an original approach in providing a model through which interim assignments can be better understood.

Citation

(2021), "A review of effective interim leadership and management: a cyclical model of interim assignments", Human Resource Management International Digest, Vol. 29 No. 1, pp. 39-41. https://doi.org/10.1108/HRMID-09-2020-0222