As specialists in interim management within procurement & supply chain disciplines, we’ve seen an uplift in demand in recent weeks following a steady start to 2025.
Roles in Demand
Currently, it’s the more delivery-focused roles which we’re seeing the highest demand for.
In particular:
✅ Category Managers/Specialists (especially across indirects and IT procurement)
✅ Vendor Managers & SRM professionals
✅ Contract Managers – both for BAU purposes and as part of M&A/divestment activities
These roles are often about execution, continuity, and value delivery – helping businesses stay on track amidst uncertainty.
What we’re not seeing much of yet in the interim market is a flood of interim transformation, change, or leadership roles.
But there’s definitely an appetite building in the interim market here!
“Waiting for the Right Time”
Conversations are happening, and there are many stakeholders gearing up to kick off digital or operational change projects, however, there’s a noticeable note of caution from large businesses when it comes to committing to big-ticket programmes and the costs associated with these.
Given the ongoing geopolitical and macroeconomic uncertainties, this isn’t a huge surprise, and many seem to be approaching things with significant caution, watching budgets closely and waiting for “the right time”.
Get Ahead of the Curve
We believe there’s a real opportunity for those who get their interim resourcing requirements aligned sooner rather than later.
Why? Because the interim market is rich with top-tier talent. Experienced change leaders who are ready to make an impact.
By bringing in experienced interim leaders now, organisations can:
✔️ Lay the groundwork for long-term change, in addition to making quick wins with savings etc.
✔️ And, crucially, benefit from deep expertise to navigate complex issues like trade and tariff challenges – areas where seasoned procurement pros can be absolutely invaluable.
In a landscape where risk, regulation, and cost pressures are evolving rapidly, having the right procurement capability in place provides a true competitive edge.
Also, with the rise of fractional models, there’s never been more flexibility in how you bring that expertise into your team. Get the insight, strategy and momentum, without the full-time commitment.
Those who start now will be ahead of the curve.
If you’re thinking about where your procurement function needs to go next, or how interim/fractional expertise here might add value to the wider business, get in touch with our specialist Interim Management consultants.
