A new breed of interim manager or “super temp” has arisen due to the preference of companies to hire experienced executives, rather than consultants. This year, 29% of super temps previously held chief executive positions, whereas only 16% had done so in 2012. These so called super temps can earn over $1,000 per day, and so it is unsurprising that 63% of super temps would choose this style of work over permanent employment. Super temping is increasing in popularity and could change the way businesses operate.
Who are super temps?
Super temps come from many different areas and industries, including C-suite executives, lawyers and strategists. The age range for super temps tends to be around 50-60 years old, although the number of super temps aged over 60 has been increasing.
How long is the average placement?
Placement lengths tend to vary greatly, but on average they are range between one and five months.
Why are they employed?
Most super temps are hired for a specific need within the company; usually as a result of a company restructuring. When an executive exits a company, there is a need to fill this sudden gap, and when no immediate replacement can be found, companies turn to the super temp. Of course, many of these roles are still filled by word of mouth, but increasingly executives search consultants are getting involved in this type of search.
Who is hiring super temps?
Interim executive roles, or super temp roles, are widespread in job markets across Europe and the United States, where such roles have been growing in the last 10 years. Today, the super temp concept has taken off in the Asia Pacific region, particularly Australia, where there is a growing demand from both companies, and executives who prefer short-term projects.
Why the rise?
The 2014 BlueSteps Work-Life Balance Report has shown how the demands of globalization and 24/7 accessibility is taking its toll of senior executives. Global executives now work an average of 58.5 hours per week, with 39% working over 60 hours per week, making the idea of super temp roles very attractive. With 81% of executives considering their personal work-life balance when deciding on whether or not to accept a new position, super temp roles may be the answer that they are looking for.
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