Interim Operations Manager
Drive operational excellence and business efficiency with experienced temporary operations leadership for transformation and transition projects
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Key Takeaways
- 1Fractional CFOs work 1-3 days per week, providing senior expertise without full-time costs
- 2UK day rates range from £800 to £1500, depending on experience and sector
- 3Typical engagements save 50-70% compared to full-time executive hires
- 4Ideal for startups, scale-ups, and SMEs needing strategic leadership
- 5No employment overhead: no pension, NI, benefits, or notice periods
An interim operations manager is an experienced operations professional who provides temporary leadership to improve business efficiency, manage transitions, or fill critical gaps. They bring hands-on expertise in process optimisation, supply chain management, and operational excellence—delivering measurable improvements without the long-term commitment of a permanent hire.
What is an Interim Operations Manager?
Quick Definition
An interim operations manager is a senior operations professional who takes on temporary leadership roles, typically for 3-12 months. They manage day-to-day operations, lead improvement initiatives, and oversee teams across manufacturing, logistics, service delivery, or business operations. Unlike consultants who advise, they take direct operational accountability and embed within your organisation to drive results.
Day Rates for Interim Operations Managers in the UK
Interim operations managers in the UK typically charge between £500-800 per day. Rates vary based on sector (manufacturing and logistics often command premiums), complexity of the operation, and geographic location. London and the South East tend toward the higher end (£650-800), while Midlands and Northern roles may be £500-700. Specialists in lean manufacturing, supply chain, or specific industries like FMCG, pharmaceuticals, or automotive may charge £750-900. Most work 4-5 days per week on-site, as operations roles typically require physical presence.
Industries That Use Interim Operations Managers
Interim operations managers are in demand across manufacturing, logistics and distribution, retail operations, healthcare, hospitality, and professional services. Any business with complex operational processes—whether producing goods, delivering services, or managing supply chains—can benefit from interim operations expertise. Private equity-backed businesses frequently use interim operations managers to drive value creation post-investment.
Cost Comparison
Fractional vs Full-Time Executive
Your Potential Savings
£180k+
Time Allocation
How fractional executives spend their time
UK Fractional Executive Day Rates
Compare day rates across C-suite roles
Fractional vs Interim vs Full-Time
Choose the right engagement model
| Aspect | Fractional | Interim | Full-Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Time Commitment | 1-3 days/week | 4-5 days/week | 5 days/week |
| Duration | Ongoing/flexible | 3-12 months | Permanent |
| Annual Cost | £50-150k | £150-300k | £200-400k+ |
| Best For | SMEs, startups, scale-ups | Crisis, transitions | Large enterprises |
| Flexibility | ★★★ High | ★★☆ Medium | ★☆☆ Low |
Costs are indicative UK market rates. Actual costs vary by role, experience, and sector.
Calculate Your Day Rate
Calculate Your Potential Income
Based on 2.5 days/week x 2 clients x 48 working weeks. CFO UK average day rate: £1000.
BetaThis calculator provides rough estimates for illustration only. Actual rates and salaries vary based on location, experience, industry, and market conditions.
Related Executive Roles
Complementary leadership for your organisation
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know
Most interim operations managers have 15-25 years of operational experience, often progressing from production or logistics roles to senior management. Common qualifications include Six Sigma Black Belt, APICS certifications (CPIM, CSCP), Lean certifications, and MBAs. Sector-specific qualifications in manufacturing, supply chain, or quality management are also valuable.
Industry Resources & Authority Links
Related Pages
The Fractional Executive Trend
Industry data on the rise of fractional leadership
of executives who moved to fractional work report higher job satisfaction
Source: Harvard Business Review ↗Platform Stats
Founder's background
📊 Exec Market Snapshot
💰 Exec Day Rates
Based on 2026 market data for UK Exec roles.
