Navigating interim hiring: day rate vs. fixed-term contracts

Author Robyn Bergmann
March 12, 2025

In recent conversations with finance leaders, a recurring question has appeared: is a day rate or a fixed-term contract (FTC) the better option for interim hiring?

The answer depends on your business’s specific needs and the nature of the role you are looking to fill. Below, we’ll examine the advantages and considerations of both models to help you make an informed decision.

Day rate structure

A day rate structure is ideal for short-term projects or specific deliverables where flexibility is paramount. This model allows businesses to bring in highly skilled professionals on an as-needed basis. Some of the key benefits include:

Professional development and networking

  • No long-term commitment: one of the primary advantages of a day rate structure is the ability to scale up or down as needed. This flexibility is particularly useful for businesses experiencing fluctuations in workload or those undertaking short-term projects that require specialised skills
  • Access to specialists: day rate arrangements attract highly skilled specialists who can provide targeted expertise. These professionals often have experience in their fields and can deliver high-quality work within a short timeframe
  • Cost efficiency for short engagements: with a day rate structure, you only pay for the days worked. This can be more cost-effective for short-term projects compared to a fixed-term contract, as it cuts the need for a long-term financial commitment
  • Readily available candidates: the interim talent pool for day rate engagements is often readily available, allowing for a swift recruitment process. This can be crucial when projects need to start immediately

Recent day rate placements:

  • Legal entity rationalisation project | FTSE 100 (Manufacturing)
  • Senior Manager, Business Partnering | FTSE 100 (Engineering)
  • Interim Group Financial Controller | Manufacturing
  • Group Reporting Accountant | Technology (support whilst hiring permanent hire)
  • Project Finance Manager | Private equity backed telecoms infrastructure
  • Interim Finance Director | Financial services
  • Interim Workday Finance Consultant | Private equity backed energy company

These examples illustrate the diverse range of projects and roles that can benefit from a day rate structure. From rationalizing legal entities in a manufacturing company to supporting finance systems in an energy firm, day rate professionals can provide the necessary expertise and flexibility.

Fixed term contracts

For longer-term interim hires, an FTC provides a more structured arrangement. This model is suitable for roles that require continuity, stability, and a deeper integration into the business. The advantages include:

  • Continuity and stability: an FTC ensures consistency in leadership and operations. This is particularly important for roles that involve managing teams, driving strategic initiatives, or supporting ongoing projects. The stability offered by an FTC can lead to better outcomes and a more cohesive work environment.
  • Greater business integration: professionals on fixed-term contracts tend to become more integrated into the business culture and operations. They can build stronger relationships with team members, understand the company’s long-term goals, and contribute more effectively to strategic initiatives.
  • Attractive to candidates: an FTC is appealing to candidates seeking longer engagements. This can widen the available talent pool and attract professionals who might not be interested in short-term, day rate arrangements. Candidates looking for stability and a clear time limit for their engagement are more likely to consider FTC roles.

Recent FTC placements:

  • Group Accountant | FTSE 250 (Supply Chain)
  • Group FP&A Manager | FTSE 250 (Logistics)
  • Financial Controller | PE Backed Retail
  • Senior Reporting Accountant

These FTC placements highlight the types of roles where longer-term stability and deeper business integration are critical. Whether it’s overseeing group accounting in a supply chain company or managing financial planning and analysis in a logistics firm, an FTC can provide the necessary structure and continuity.

How Brewer Morris can help you find your next interim hire

Choosing between a day rate and a fixed-term contract depends on your specific needs and the nature of the role. If you need short-term, flexible expertise for specific projects, a day rate is the way to go. However, if you need stable leadership and greater integration into your business, an FTC is more suitable.

If you’re weighing these options, please contact us to discuss your specific needs and help determine the best approach.

Alternatively, if you are an interim professional looking for a new opportunity, check out our latest interim roles.  

Jobs

  • Commerce and industry

Corporate Tax Assistant Manager – February Start

UK corporate tax preparation duties required in this UK Corporate Tax Assistant Manager, or UK Corporate Tax Accountant interim tax job in London. Joining an established and supportive in-house tax team, the interim UK Corporate Tax Assistant Manager job will start at the beginning of February and will have an initial 3 months duration with […]
  • Salary GBP60000 – GBP65000 per annum + pro-rata to duration of contract
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Transfer Pricing Harmonisation Manager – 9 months

Transfer pricing harmonisation project requires an interim Transfer Pricing Senior Manager to lead on the technical transfer pricing aspects of this project. Joining a manufacturing business and working within the finance team, the Transfer Pricing Harmonisation Lead will work on this project for a 9 months period, and can be in the London office or […]
  • Salary GBP550 – GBP650 per day + PAYE
  • Posted Posted 12 hours ago

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  • Commerce and industry

Tax Accountant – January start – 3 months

Tax Accountant role for 3 months starting in the New Year, requires tax accounting duties for year end and VAT review, for this interim Tax Accountant role in London. Supporting the Head of Tax for the UK&I operations, the interim Tax Accountant will start this role on the 5th January for a 3 months period, […]
  • Salary GBP75000 – GBP80000 per annum + pro-rata to duration of contract
  • Posted Posted 12 hours ago

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  • Professional services

Senior Manager – Private Companies

Senior Manager – Private Companies, Business Tax The Company Our client is a leading global professional services firm, renowned for delivering exceptional audit, tax, and advisory solutions. They are committed to innovation, collaboration, and empowering their people to achieve more. This is an opportunity to join a prestigious organization with a strong reputation in the […]
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The Company We’re working with a global professional services firm that is widely recognized for its expertise in audit, tax, advisory, and consulting. This organization prides itself on fostering a collaborative, inclusive culture where ambitious professionals can thrive. If you’re looking for a place that values innovation and empowers you to make an impact, this […]
  • Salary GBP65000 – GBP78000 per annum
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Our client is an international group searching for an Assistant Tax Manager to join a close-knit tax team located in Guildford. The company has operations in the UK, Sri Lanka, India, North America, and Continental Europe. It continues to grow organically and is also highly acquisitive. As the Assistant Tax Manager, you will report to […]
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