Frequently Asked Questions

The concept of interim management is still quite new to many organisations. Hopefully, in this web site, we've been able to answer most of your questions about the role of interim managers and the benefits they bring to companies.

To help you further we've listed some of the more frequently asked questions we receive at Firth Interim Management.

Which industries do you work in?

Firth Interim Management focuses mainly on engineering, manufacturing and stockholding businesses operating in international markets.

What size of businesses do you work in?

Generally between £5m and £50m turnover; ownership from private businesses to international corporations

What roles do you undertake?

Director level roles which require the skills, knowledge and experience to make a difference quickly. For example:
Chairman, managing director, project manager and non-executive director. I can also undertake mentor / coach assignments as well as facilitation.

What is the difference between a management consultant and an interim manager?

A management consultant is paid to advise only; an interim manager temporarily becomes part of your team and takes on the responsibility of delivering results.

What is the difference between a temporary manager and an interim manager?

A temporary manager is akin to a "temp" secretary - between permanent jobs; an interim manager is a career professional who thrives on the variety of working in a series of different projects for a defined period of time.

How quickly can you start?

Depending on availability - within a few days of being given the go-ahead.

How soon will you make an impact?

My skills are in rapid strategic analysis, change management and continuous improvement. With 20 years' successful track record as a managing director in a wide variety of situations, you can be sure Firth Interim Management will "hit the ground running".

How can you guarantee you'll do a good job?

Please take a look at the list of client successes and their testimonials will tell you of their high level of satisfaction.

How much does it cost?

Fully inclusive costs are charged at a daily rate depending on the nature and duration of the work. Only days worked are invoiced; expenses are transparent. There is no hidden cost at the beginning or end of an assignment; there are no supervisory or head office costs to pay for. You can therefore budget with peace of mind and be sure that you will get value for money.

On what contractual basis do you operate?

Terms of reference, daily rate, likely duration of the assignment and mutually acceptable termination notice in each direction are all agreed at the outset. Generally, it is possible to extend the Contract should it be necessary. Days worked are invoiced through a limited company - Firth Interim Management Ltd - and invoices are submitted monthly. Payment within ten working days is appreciated. The method of reporting is flexible and depends entirely on the Client's needs.

What happens at the end of the assignment?

If required, a final report can be submitted. There is no further commitment on behalf of the Client. Should follow-up work be required - on a part-time or ad hoc basis - this can normally be accommodated at a similar hourly rate.

Any more questions?

Please feel free to contact Firth Interim Management by phone or email. A no-obligation face-to-face meeting is often the best way to explore how best I can help you.

If you would like to discuss a particular project with Stuart Firth we'd be happy to hear from you. Please call now on 01422 824324.