The rise of the interim CFO

Published date: October 26, 2026

The share of interim CFO appointments doubled in just one year, rising from 6% to 12%.

The interim CFO is playing an increasingly prominent role in the boardroom. In the first quarter of 2026, 12% of all new CFO appointments worldwide were interim appointments. A year earlier, that figure stood at just 6%. This is according to new research by global talent solutions partner Robert Walters.

This augmentation shows that companies are no longer turning to interim CFOs solely when a permanent CFO leaves unexpectedly. Increasingly, they are appointing temporary CFOs to carry out specific assignments, with a clear objective and a predetermined time frame.

A CFO for a specific assignment

According to Robert Walters, several factors are driving this growth. Transformation programmes sometimes require specific expertise on a temporary basis. Companies may also be more cautious about making permanent appointments during periods of economic uncertainty.

An interim CFO can also be brought in quickly when an organisation needs additional expertise for a specific period. This may be necessary during a transformation, financial difficulties, a turnaround, an acquisition or other transaction, or a leadership transition.

“The interim CFO is evolving from someone who temporarily fills the seat into an executive appointed to deliver a specific outcome,” says Audrey Bostvironois, Senior Manager at Robert Walters Interim Management.

Not every situation calls for a permanent CFO

This development is also changing the question boards ask when the CFO position becomes vacant. Traditionally, the question has been: Who will be our next permanent CFO? In some situations, a different question may make more sense: What does the CFO need to achieve over the next twelve months?

Audrey explains: “For example, in the case of a turnaround, a transformation programme or a leadership transition, a temporary mandate may be better suited to the assignment than a permanent appointment.”

Temporary does not mean less strategic

According to Audrey, an interim CFO can add value quickly, particularly in an organisation undergoing change. Because the assignment is clearly defined in advance, the expected outcomes can be established from the outset.

“An interim CFO is not appointed with the expectation that they will remain in the same role for years,” says Audrey. “Their value lies in resolving a specific challenge and leaving the company in a stronger position once the assignment has been completed.”

The increase from 6% to 12% shows that more and more organisations are considering this option when deciding on their next CFO.