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Full-time temporary HR leadership for 3-12 months. Gap-fill, transformation, or bridge to permanent.
An Interim HR Director is a senior HR professional who takes on a full-time temporary role for a defined period—typically 3-12 months. Unlike fractional HR (part-time, ongoing), interim HR provides 5-day-per-week presence for specific situations: gap-fill when a CHRO departs, leading major transformation, or bridging to a permanent hire.
| Factor | Interim HR Director | Fractional HR Director |
|---|---|---|
| Time Commitment | 5 days/week (full-time) | 1-3 days/week (part-time) |
| Duration | 3-12 months (temporary) | 6-18+ months (ongoing) |
| Day Rate | £850-£1,200/day | £900-£1,100/day |
| Monthly Cost | £18,400-£26,000 | £7,800-£9,500 (2 days/week) |
| Annual Cost | £220k-£312k (annualized) | £94k-£114k |
| Client Focus | Single client (exclusive) | 2-4 clients simultaneously |
| Best For | Gap-fill, crisis, transformation | Ongoing strategic support |
| Company Size | 100+ employees typically | 30-150 employees |
"Our CHRO just resigned with 4 weeks notice. We need someone to step in immediately and maintain momentum while we recruit a permanent replacement." Typical duration: 4-8 months.
"We're undertaking a significant restructure, cultural change programme, or M&A integration that requires full-time senior HR leadership." Typical duration: 6-12 months.
"We're facing serious ER issues, multiple tribunals, or a culture crisis that needs immediate full-time attention to resolve." Typical duration: 3-6 months.
"We know we need a full-time CHRO but the recruitment will take 4-6 months. We need senior cover in the meantime." Typical duration: 3-6 months.
If you don't need 5-days-per-week presence, a fractional HR Director is likely more cost-effective. At £94k-£114k/year vs £220k-£312k for interim, you save significantly while still getting senior expertise.
Learn about Fractional HR Directors →Whether you need interim or fractional, find the right HR leader for your situation.