Working closely with organizations across various industries, at Kienbaum Executive Search we encounter situations where companies need immediate, senior-level financial expertise—but not necessarily on a permanent basis. These moments often arise during transformations, unexpected leadership changes, or major strategic shifts. That's where an interim CFO becomes not just helpful, but essential.

Here are the three key reasons why we advise clients to consider the interim route.



1. Ensuring continuity in times of sudden change

Sudden departures of CFOs are more common than many expect. Whether due to resignation, health issues, or a merger, losing your CFO without a ready successor creates real risk. Financial oversight, compliance, and reporting cannot simply be paused.

What makes interim CFOs so valuable is their ability to step in with minimal ramp-up time. They bring with them a track record of handling similar situations and can immediately stabilize the finance function. We have seen them work alongside boards and CEOs to maintain strategic focus and continuity during otherwise turbulent times.



2. Leading transformation with objectivity

We work with many clients undergoing transformation—be it restructuring, cost reduction, or system overhauls. These are critical junctures that require not just experience, but also the ability to make decisions without bias or internal pressures.

This is where interim CFOs excel. They come in as neutral experts focused purely on outcomes. Whether it's optimizing working capital, renegotiating debt, or professionalizing reporting structures, interim CFOs act as catalysts for change. And perhaps most importantly, they often leave behind a stronger, more capable team ready to carry the torch.



3. Guiding high-stakes strategic projects

Strategic projects like IPOs, acquisitions, or international expansion can quickly stretch a finance team beyond its limits. For mid-sized companies especially, it might be premature to hire a full-time CFO—but the need for senior guidance is undeniable.

In these cases, interim CFOs bring deep transactional experience. We have seen them guide clients through due diligence, tighten up financial models, and ensure compliance in capital markets. Because they operate independently of internal hierarchies, their focus remains razor-sharp on project success.

The Kienbaum perspective

We tell our clients: hiring an interim CFO is not a stopgap, it is a smart strategic choice. They typically deliver focus, speed, and impact exactly when needed most.

If you are navigating a period of change, managing a critical project, or temporarily without a finance leader, consider what an interim CFO could bring to your team.

Feel free to reach out to me. I would be happy to discuss how the right interim solution could support your organization’s goals.

Hendrikus Müller