IIM Interim Management Survey & Provider Rankings (2010–2026)

Each year the Institute of Interim Management (IIM) conducts and publishes its survey of the Interim Market. Originally launched in January 2004 as a small survey of the IIM membership, it went public in 2010, reaching out to the wider community. Today the survey is widely recognised as the most comprehensive and prestigious insight into the Interim Management market

The Survey now runs each year throughout the month of April. Respondent validation checks are followed by full consolidation and analysis of the data, with Leading ISP Rankings being released typically in mid-late May with the Final Survey Report published in mid-late June.

2026 brings the 17th year of this authoritative survey of the Interim Market and its Service Provider community. Around 2,000 interim managers complete the survey each year.

Please note that all IIM Surveys are covered by copyright but may be freely used by the interim community with due acknowledgement. They MUST NOT be located on any other website or shareable storage location, in part due to minor updates that we make, and should only be accessed by linking to the appropriate URL on the IIM website.

View and download all of the past surveys

IIM Interim Management Survey 2026

Edition 17

The Institute of Interim Management Survey 2026 is the authoritative interim management report for the UK. As well as the latest ISP and Consultant Rankings, this edition features our first probe into fractional interim management as well as expanded sections on insurance and use of umbrella companies. As always, the Survey is compiled from the contributions of thousands of interim managers and executives. It offers a critical insight for those seeking interim management opportunities.

Please note the usage rules listed above this report section.

IIM Interim Management Survey 2025

Edition 16

The Institute of Interim Management Survey 2025 is the definitive interim management report for the UK. This edition features the highly anticipated IIM rankings of interim management providers, compiled from the views of thousands of interim managers and executives. It offers critical insight for those seeking interim management opportunities and benchmarks for interim executive day rates.

IIM Interim Management Survey 2024

Edition 15

A vital resource for the interim management UK community, the 2024 report analyses the post-pandemic landscape. It details the performance of executive search interim management firms and provides essential data for interim professional benchmarking. This edition helps interim executives understand market shifts and identifies top interim management agencies UK.

2023 Survey

Edition 14

This year’s management survey focused on value creation during high inflation. It serves as a key reference for interim business management, tracking the evolving relationship between interim managers and service providers. The report validates the IIM as the leading voice of interim management during economic uncertainty.

2022 Survey

Edition 13

Reflecting a year of rapid recovery, this survey highlights the demand for specialized interim management skills in transformation and turnaround. It captures the surge in interim appointments and offers historical context on how interim IT management and other sectors rebounded post-lockdown.

2021 Survey

Edition 12

Conducted during a period of significant legislative change, this edition provides unique data on the impact of IR35 reforms in the private sector. It tracks the shift toward remote assignment delivery and remains a key historical reference for interim executive adaptability.

2020 Survey

Edition 11

A historic snapshot of the market at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. This report documents the immediate effect of the crisis on interim utilization and day rates, highlighting how interim leaders pivoted to support distressed organizations during unprecedented uncertainty.

2019 Survey

Edition 10

Marking the 10th anniversary of the public survey, this edition establishes a pre-pandemic baseline for the industry. It analyses the market’s response to Brexit-related uncertainty and the resulting demand for change management expertise.

2018 Survey

Edition 9

An archived report from 2018 capturing the interim service provider landscape of the time. This document provides comparative data on market sentiment and the performance of leading service providers during a stable economic period.

2017 Survey

Edition 8

Historical market data from 2017. This survey explores the widening scope of interim executive roles and offers a snapshot of the sector’s growth prior to the major economic shifts of the following years.

2016 Survey

Edition 7

A retrospective look at the 2016 interim market. This edition tracks the evolving relationship between independent professionals and recruitment partners, serving as a useful data point for long-term industry trend analysis.

2015 Survey

Edition 6

Archived data from the 2015 cycle. This report details the mid-decade benchmarks for day rates and assignment duration, offering researchers a view into the steady-state mechanics of the UK interim sector.

2014 Survey

Edition 5

The 5th edition of the survey provides a window into the industry’s recovery following the early 2010s recession. It highlights the emerging prominence of interim management agencies as key partners in executive career development.

2013 Survey

Edition 4

Historical archives: The 2013 survey focuses on the consolidation of the interim market. It includes legacy rankings of service providers and early data on the diversification of interim disciplines.

2012 Survey

Edition 3

An archival record of the 2012 market. This early edition is essential for understanding the long-term trajectory of interim management as a recognized career path in the UK.

2011 Survey

Edition 2

The second public release of the IIM survey. This document helps complete the historical timeline of the profession, offering data on the initial growth of the service provider ecosystem.

2010 Survey

Edition 1

The inaugural public survey that launched the IIM’s decade of data. This foundational report set the standard for market transparency and remains a vital piece of history for the interim institute.

FAQs: Understanding the IIM Interim Management Survey

Navigate the key details of the UK’s leading interim management report. Whether you are searching for the latest IIM rankings of service providers, seeking benchmarks on interim executive day rates, or clarifying the meaning of specific data points, these answers address the most common queries from the interim community and executive search partners.

What is the IIM (Institute of Interim Management)?

The IIM (Institute of Interim Management) is the UK’s leading professional body for independent interim managers and executives. It supports the interim community through accreditation, networking, and its annual interim management survey.

Who can become a member of the IIM?

The IIM welcomes experienced Interim Managers and those entering the profession. Whether you’ve delivered multiple recognised assignments or are building your portfolio, there’s a pathway for you. The assessment process helps ensure that all members meet the professional standards expected by clients and providers.

What is the meaning of the Interim Survey?

The interim survey is an annual market analysis conducted by the IIM. It collects data on day rates, utilization, and trends to produce a comprehensive interim management report. It is widely regarded as the industry benchmark for interim professionals.

Who participates in the IIM Management Survey?

The survey is completed by thousands of interim managers, interim executives, and interim directors operating primarily in the UK and internationally. It captures the “voice of the interim” to ensure accurate market representation.

Does the IIM provide interim management opportunities?

While the IIM is a professional institute rather than a recruitment agency, it connects members with leading interim management providers and executive search firms through its ISP rankings and partner network, facilitating access to top interim assignments.