How to Unlock Your Full Potential as an IT Interim Manager

If you’re looking to further your tech career, you should seriously consider working as an interim manager.

​​​​​​​​​Listings for contract jobs jumped 26% from 2021 to 2022, and the number of temporary positions continues to rise.

But what’s in it for you?

Working as an IT interim manager is a great way to develop new skills and grow as a specialist in a dynamic environment. It can put you on the frontline of technological innovation and give you the flexibility to work in a way that suits you.

While temporary positions may give the impression of lacking security, the tech industry’s significant candidate shortage means this isn’t really the case. In fact, IT interim often entails excellent networking opportunities and favourable pay conditions​​​​​​​​​​.

Read on to learn how to protect yourself from some common pitfalls and achieve IT interim success.​​​​​​​​​​

What You Need to Know Before Becoming an IT Interim Manager

Before getting started as a interim manager, it’s important to consider the following:

1. Specialising
   Make yourself an expert. While companies often demand a broad skill set for permanent employees, they target interim professionals with in-depth tech experience in a specific field. Consider what skills and knowledge are currently in demand before developing your unique selling point.  
    
2. Pragmatism
   Set realistic rates and start with projects that match your skills and experience; you should be able to hit the floor running and add instant value. Eventually, you’ll earn more, but start by building up your CV before increasing your fee over time.
    
3. Adaptability
   Thoroughly research potential employers and attempt to understand what lies at the heart of a role. Leverage this knowledge to quickly adapt to a new corporate culture and way of working. Build business relationships and connect with others while maintaining confidence in your own abilities.
    
4. Security
   Yes, the interim market is candidate-driven, but that doesn’t mean it’s a sure bet. Unpredictable earnings due to gaps between contracts and fluctuating contract lengths mean it’s essential to prepare well. Make sure you have enough savings to last a few months and always study the fine print of new contracts to prevent any unpleasant surprises.

Don’t aim for the stars right away; start with assignments that match your experience and that you feel you can immediately contribute to. While you mustn’t undersell yourself, try to get some traction on your CV before building up your fee over time.

Olaf Roos, Senior Executive Director

The Most Popular IT Interim Manager Roles in the Netherlands

Not sure what to specialise in? Here are some of the most popular interim roles in the Netherlands.

Project Manager

Contracted project managers require a deep knowledge of project management methodologies and IT systems. Their responsibilities include project planning, coordinating team efforts, budget management, risk assessment, and more.  

Salary Range: €100 – €120 per hour

Cyber Security Consultant

IT security or cyber security professionals are often employed on short-term contracts to strengthen a company’s digital defences. They typically assess existing security measures, identify vulnerabilities, and implement robust cybersecurity strategies.

Salary Range: €90 – €120 per hour

IT Business Analyst

IT business analysts help bridge the gap between an organisation's IT capabilities and its business objectives. It’s essential that they adapt quickly to complex business environments before streamlining processes and improving efficiency.

Salary Range: €80 – €100 per hour

IT Manager/Digital Transformation Leader

IT managers and digital transformation leaders help businesses adapt to the digital age. Their responsibilities include developing strategic overviews, evaluating technology trends, implementing innovative solutions, managing IT teams, and aligning IT strategies with overall business goals.

Salary Range: €100 to €135 an hour

Data Scientist

Data scientists excel in programming languages like Python and R while showcasing a deep understanding of statistical analysis, machine learning, and data mining. Their responsibilities include collecting, analysing, and interpreting intricate data to support organizations in making well-informed decisions.

Salary Range: €85 to €100 an hour

How to Make the Most of an IT Interim Role

Want to ensure you get the most from an interim role? Follow these five key principles:

Choose the Right Project

Prioritise projects that align with your career goals. Make sure to consider the length of the contract, the client’s reputation, and any skills you can grow while working on the project.

Be Flexible

Regardless of whether you’re working remotely, in the office, or with a hybrid system, the client may want you to attend team meetings. Showing a willingness to make their life easier is often rewarded further down the line.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

Keep up to date on industry trends and familiarise yourself with the latest technologies. Attend relevant workshops and conferences, and consider taking any certifications that will help develop your skills.

Communicate

Maintain an open line with stakeholders and remain honest about all aspects of the project. Effective communication helps foster fruitful relationships that could open doors to further opportunities.

Get Help From the Experts

When you’re unfamiliar with all the processes involved in interim, it can be overwhelming. The solution? Look for a respected recruitment agency with expert consultants. They can help you find the right opportunities, negotiate favourable terms, and offer valuable advice.

Guarantee Interim Success

Michael Page boasts an extensive network of respected clients who are increasingly employing interim professionals for their next projects. Our consultants possess in-depth technological expertise and market knowledge, offering comprehensive support from the hiring process through to project completion.

We ensure complete transparency and provide you with a readily available specialist consultant who can help you find the right project, give you information on best practices, and clarify any financial doubts. What’s more, we guarantee you get paid in a timely manner — regardless of client payment punctuality.

Unlock your full potential as a interim manager with Michael Page.