The hidden cost of delayed hiring – how interim talent can help

In today’s competitive and fast-moving business environment, the cost of leaving critical roles unfilled- especially in finance, tax, treasury, and the C-suite- extends far beyond the visible line items on a balance sheet. While it may seem prudent to wait for the ideal full-time hire, the hidden costs of delayed hiring can quietly undermine productivity, morale, and even long-term success. Fortunately, interim talent solutions offer a strategic, on-demand alternative that ensures continuity and drives results.

The true cost of vacancy

When a senior finance or interim executive role becomes vacant- whether due to resignation, restructuring, or parental leave- the instinctive response is often to pause and reassess. But this delay can come at a high price:

1. Operational disruption: Finance and treasury functions are foundational to business stability. A missing CFO, financial controller, or head of tax can stall reporting cycles, delay compliance, and derail business development initiatives. These disruptions can ripple across departments, affecting everything from procurement to human resources.

2. Team burnout: When full-time employees are asked to absorb the responsibilities of a vacant leadership role, the result is often overwork and stress. This can lead to disengagement, reduced productivity, and even attrition—creating further staffing challenges and compounding the original issue.

3. Missed opportunities: Vacancies in strategic roles can delay or derail key initiatives such as a merger, ERP implementation, or international expansion. Without the right leadership in place, businesses risk missing out on growth opportunities and falling behind competitors.

4. Reputational risk: In sectors like healthcare, financial services, and regulated industries, delays in reporting or compliance can damage a company’s reputation with regulators, investors, and customers. Even in less regulated environments, instability at the top can shake stakeholder confidence.

Interim talent: a strategic solution

Interim roles are no longer just a stopgap- they are a core part of a modern talent strategy. Experienced professionals in interim positions bring immediate value, offering the adaptability and expertise needed to navigate change and maintain momentum.

1. Immediate impact: Interim professionals are accustomed to stepping into complex environments and delivering results from day one. With minimal onboarding, they can stabilise teams, maintain operations, and keep strategic projects on track.

2. Specialist expertise: Many interim leaders bring a unique skill set that is difficult to find in the full-time market. Whether it’s leading a finance transformation, managing post-merger integration, or navigating regulatory change, interim professionals offer targeted expertise exactly when it’s needed.

3. Flexibility and control: Interim contracts- whether part-time or full-time- offer flexibility in both duration and scope. This allows businesses to manage costs while maintaining control over deliverables. It also provides breathing room to conduct a thorough executive search without compromising day-to-day operations.

4. Fresh perspective: Because they are external to the organisation, interim leaders often bring a fresh, objective viewpoint. They can identify inefficiencies, challenge the status quo, and implement improvements that internal teams may overlook.

Real-world example

A global healthcare company recently faced a six-month gap between CFOs. Rather than rush a full-time hire, they engaged an interim executive through Brewer Morris. The interim leader not only maintained financial stability but also led a successful refinancing project and mentored the finance team- leaving the business in a stronger position than before.

When to consider interim talent

You don’t need to wait for a crisis to consider interim support. Here are some common scenarios where interim leadership can add value:

• Maternity or parental leave cover
• Leadership gaps during a full-time search
• Business transformation or restructuring
• M&A activity or integration
• Regulatory or audit deadlines
• ERP or finance system implementations
• Shortages in niche or high-demand skill areas

Partnering with Brewer Morris

At Brewer Morris, we specialise in connecting businesses with high-calibre interim executives and finance professionals. As a trusted search firm, we understand the urgency and complexity of filling short-term and critical roles. Our deep market knowledge and extensive network mean we can respond quickly- often within 48 hours- to provide the right talent for your needs.

We take the time to understand your business, culture, and challenges, ensuring a seamless fit and a smooth onboarding process. Whether you need someone for a few months or to lead a major initiative, we’ll help you find a solution that delivers real value.

If you would like to hire an interim leader for your business, please submit a brief and a member of our team will be in touch.