The new AIMP Market Study 2026 clearly demonstrates that interim management remains a key success factor for companies—especially in times of economic uncertainty, transformation, and a shortage of skilled workers. This year’s study was again designed as a comprehensive 360-degree market overview. Over 5,000 clients, 20 providers, and 10,000 interim managers were surveyed—providing a unique perspective on the DACH market.
GOiNTERIM played a key role in this effort: Dr. Martin L. Mayr, CEO of GOiNTERIM and vice chair of the AIMP, served as the study director and was responsible for the study on the executive board.
We are pleased to present the key findings and relevant insights to you. We would also like to take this opportunity to thank you for your support—the perspective of businesses, in particular, is an essential part of the study.
Companies Are Turning to Interim Management—and Are Highly Satisfied
The results speak for themselves:
- 75 % of companies are very satisfied with their interim managers.
- Two-thirds praise their collaboration with specialized providers.
- 80 % of the companies surveyed have already used interim management.
This confirms that interim management is no longer a niche product—it is a strategic management tool that delivers results.
Change, Transformation, and Restructuring—Interim Managers Deliver Results
The benefits are particularly significant in change processes:
- 79 % of clients confirm that interim managers implement change processes faster and more successfully .
- 63 % of providers expect a significant increase in demand for restructuring and transformation projects in 2026.
- Interim managers are also increasingly being deployed in the IT, energy, and consumer goods sectors, as well as in the public sector.
Companies benefit from the independence, experience, and leadership skills of external executives—precisely when it matters most.
What Companies Are Really Looking For: Personality, Leadership, and the Ability to Get Things Done
The study clearly shows what matters most:
- Integrity & Personal Commitment – 99 %
- Execution & Leadership – 96 %
- Experience, Methodological Competence & Flexibility – 87–93 %
Companies are looking for personalities , not just technical skills. And they’re not looking for them digitally : 73 % recruit through specialized providers, 62 % through their own network. Platforms play almost no role.
Market volume & outlook: Growth despite challenges
With a market volume of €3.09 billion, interim management remains a strong and stable sector. Demand is driven particularly by upper mid-sized companies (250–10,000 employees) – 74 % of all projects fall into this target group.
The outlook for 2026 is positive:
- Over 50 % of interim managers expect increased occupancy rates.
- 56 % of customers expect higher demand for project-oriented managers.
The following remain particularly in demand:
- Restructuring
- Transformation
- Project and Program Management
- Digitalization & IT
Interim Management—Established and Future-Proof
The study confirms what we experience every day at GOiNTERIM: Interim management is the fastest, most flexible, and most effective form of modern corporate leadership. When leadership, expertise, or the ability to get things done are lacking, interim executives provide immediate relief—and measurable results.
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