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Interim vs Permanent Finance Hires: What's right for your business?

Having specialised in placing senior interim accountants in Yorkshire for over 20 years, I’ve seen all kinds of reasons behind the need for a business to recruit new finance staff but how many of those companies made the right call….at the right time? The decision to hire an interim or permanent finance professional is a significant one, and it largely depends on the company’s specific needs, objectives, and resources. Both types of finance jobs have distinct advantages and can provide different types of value to an organisation. In this article, I’ll explore the key benefits of hiring an interim vs a permanent accountancy and finance professional. ​Understanding the Roles: Interim vs. Permanent Finance Professionals Before diving into the benefits, it's essential to understand the fundamental differences between interim and permanent. Interim Finance Professionals: are typically brought in on a short-term basis to address specific challenges or temporary gaps within a company.These professionals are usually highly experienced, often with a broad skill set, and are capable of stepping into a role quickly. Interim finance professionals might be hired for a variety of reasons, including covering for a permanent employee on leave, assisting with a specific project, managing transitions, or handling urgent financial needs. Permanent Finance Professionals: on the other hand, are hired to take on a long-term role within the company. They typically have a more stable and ongoing relationship with the organisation, working closely with other departments and employees to ensure the company’s financial health is maintained and improved. A permanent finance professional is expected to provide continuous support, helping shape long-term strategies, and ensuring business growth and stability. ​With these definitions in mind, let's explore the benefits of each type.​Benefits of Hiring an Interim Finance Professional 1. Flexibility and Immediate Impact: One of the most significant advantages of hiring an interim accountancy/finance candidate is flexibility. Interim candidates are typically available to step in quickly, often within a matter of weeks or even days. This is especially beneficial for businesses that need immediate support within their finance function due to an unexpected situation or an urgent financial project. For example, if a company faces a sudden crisis, such as the resignation of a senior finance executive, a business owner might need an interim finance leader to fill the role temporarily. The interim candidate can quickly assume responsibilities, such as overseeing cash flow management, financial reporting, and budget planning, allowing the business to continue operating smoothly during the transition period. Additionally, interims can be engaged for specific, short-term projects, such as managing the implementation of a new financial system, preparing for audits, or dealing with temporary increases in workload. The flexibility of interim senior finance roles makes them ideal for businesses looking to meet specific short-term goals without the need to commit to a permanent hire. ​2. Cost-Effective for Short-Term Needs Hiring an interim accountant can often be more cost-effective than hiring a permanent one, particularly for short-term or project-based needs. Interims are typically paid a daily or weekly rate, which means businesses do not need to cover the long-term costs associated with a permanent employee, such as pensions, healthcare, and other benefits. For companies operating on tight budgets or with fluctuating financial demands, hiring an interim professional can be a way to access high-level expertise without committing to the ongoing costs of a permanent hire. This is particularly valuable for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that may not have the financial capacity to employ a full-time senior finance professional with the expertise required to fulfil their requirements. ​3. Expertise and Specialisation Interim finance professionals often bring a wealth of experience and unique knowledge to the table. Many have worked across various industries, providing them with a broad understanding of different financial challenges and solutions. Their expertise enables them to quickly assess the situation, identify the key issues, and implement strategies that can drive immediate improvements. Whether it’s managing complex financial reporting, overseeing mergers and acquisitions, or implementing cost-saving initiatives, interim finance professionals possess the necessary skills to tackle these challenges quickly and effectively. For businesses that require specialised financial expertise on a temporary or interim basis, hiring an interim professional can be a great solution. ​4. Support During Transitions and Change Businesses that are going through periods of change—whether it’s a merger, acquisition, restructure, or IT system upgrade—can benefit from the support of an interim finance professional. These transitions often require specialist knowledge to ensure a smooth process. They can help with tasks such as conducting due diligence, integrating financial systems, or managing financial communications with stakeholders. Their ability to handle high-pressure situations and adapt to challenges quickly makes them invaluable during periods of change. ​5. Reduced Recruitment Risk If a business is uncertain about hiring a permanent employee or simply wants to test the waters, hiring an interim can reduce the recruitment risk. They are often hired for their ability to deliver results quickly, without the long-term commitment that comes with a permanent role. If the business is not satisfied with the interims performance, they can simply replace them without the added complications that come with a permanent hire. This can be especially important for businesses that may be unsure about the long-term financial strategy or need time to evaluate the suitability of a new hire before committing to them permanently. ​Benefits of Hiring a Permanent Finance Professional 1.Long-Term Strategic Support ​A permanent finance hire, hopefully, becomes an integral part of the company’s long-term strategy. This individual will be responsible for the company’s ongoing financial health, working closely with management to shape business decisions, optimise financial performance, and align the company’s financial goals with its strategic objectives. Permanent finance professionals can help businesses by offering consistent advice on areas like tax planning, financial forecasting, and long-term investment strategies. They can also assist with employee development, fostering a strong financial team, and providing training and mentorship to junior staff members. For businesses that require a stable, long-term financial presence to guide growth and sustainability, hiring a permanent finance professional is often the best option. ​2.Stronger Company Culture and Relationships One of the key benefits of having a permanent employee is their ability to build strong relationships within the company. Unlike interim professionals, who may only interact with a limited number of people during their contract, permanent professionals have the time to embed themselves within the company culture and form deeper connections with other employees, teams, and departments. A permanent finance professional can work collaboratively with other departments, helping to align financial strategies with broader business objectives. Over time, they develop a deep understanding of the business’s operations, challenges, and goals, which allows them to make more informed decisions and offer tailored financial advice. ​3.Continuity and Stability Hiring a permanent finance professional ensures continuity and stability in your company’s financial management. This is especially important for businesses that require ongoing oversight and management of financial processes. A permanent professional will have a long-term commitment to the company’s financial success, ensuring that key financial tasks—such as budgeting, reporting, and compliance—are consistently handled. Stability is particularly important businesses that require ongoing financial planning and risk management. A permanent finance professional will be able to navigate both the everyday challenges and the long-term issues that might arise, such as economic downturns, changes in regulation, or shifts in market conditions. ​4.Deeper Understanding of the Business A permanent finance hire has the time to truly understand the intricacies of the business. Over time, they become deeply familiar with the company’s goals, challenges, and nuances, which allows them to make better financial decisions and anticipate potential issues. This in-depth knowledge helps to align financial decision-making with the company’s vision, ensuring that financial strategies support business growth in a meaningful way. Businesses that operate in competitive industries or rapidly changing markets can benefit from having a finance professional who is attuned to the local market conditions and the specific needs of the business. ​5.Employee Retention and Development A permanent finance professional is often tasked with developing and mentoring junior employees. By investing in the development of the finance team, they help ensure that the company has a pipeline of talent to support future growth. For businesses that plan to scale or expand their operations, having a permanent finance professional who can recruit, train, and develop a team of skilled finance staff is a key advantage. This helps build a more robust and capable finance function within the company, which is especially important for long-term success. ​​​Interim vs. Permanent Finance Professionals Both interim and permanent finance candidates offer unique benefits to businesses, and the choice between the two largely depends on the company’s specific needs and goals. Interim finance professionals provide flexibility, expertise, and cost-effectiveness for businesses that need short-term support or specialised assistance. They are particularly well-suited for project-based work, transitional periods, or covering gaps in the workforce. On the other hand, permanent finance professionals offer long-term strategic support, stability, and the ability to foster strong relationships within the company. They are ideal for businesses seeking continuous guidance on financial matters, long-term growth, and the development of a cohesive financial strategy. ​Ultimately, the right choice for your business will depend on factors such as the scope of the work required, the financial health of your organisation, and your long-term goals. By carefully weighing the advantages of both options, you can make an informed decision that best supports the success of your business. ​Need help deciding whether an interim or permanent finance professional is right for your business? At Sharp Consultancy, we’ve been advising and supporting businesses across Yorkshire for over 30 years—matching them with the right finance professionals at the right time. Whether you need immediate interim support or are planning a strategic permanent hire, our teams in Leeds and Sheffield can guide you through the options. 📞 Call us today on 0113 236 6300 / 0114 261 1700 or 📧 email stuartdouglass@sharpconsultancy.com to discuss your hiring needs with one of our expert consultants. ​Sharp Consultancy is a specialist finance and accountancy recruitment partner for businesses across Yorkshire and the North East Midlands. With a deep understanding of the local market and access to a network of high-calibre professionals, we help organisations secure the talent they need to succeed. If you're looking to strengthen your finance team, CONTACT US to speak to one of our expert consultants to find out how we can help.

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Mark Wilson

Mark Wilson

Managing Director

Having previously been a non executive director of the business, Mark took over the day to day running of Sharp Consultancy in 2002.

Lee Sweeney

Lee Sweeney

Executive Director

Educated at Chesterfield Boy’s School in Derbyshire, Lee Sweeney's career commenced with a solid foundation in retail banking. He spent eight years at LloydsTSB Bank Plc, assuming various sales and junior management roles. In 1996, Lee embarked on a new chapter with Sharp Consultancy, dedicating 28 years of serv...

Jamie Caulfield

Jamie Caulfield

Regional Director

​Jamie Caulfield joined Sharp Consultancy in 2005 originally starting as PA to the Owner. In 2015, he advanced through the ranks to become the Regional Director of the Leeds Office. He now leads the West and North Yorkshire team to success. ​With a degree in E...

Aaron Pepperday

Aaron Pepperday

Regional Director

​With an impressive recruitment career spanning nearly 22 years, Aaron Pepperday is a seasoned expert in the field. His extensive experience includes valuable time at a national recruiter, with the last 18 years dedicated to specialising in accountancy and finance. Aaron has been a vital part of Sharp Consultanc...

Andrew Walker

Andrew Walker

Commercial Director

Andrew Walker is a seasoned recruiter with an impressive career spanning over two decades. He graduated from Sheffield Hallam with a Degree in Business Studies and began his career in recruitment in June 2003. Over the past 21 years, Andrew has garnered extensive experience in both temporary and permanent recrui...

Michael Ball

Michael Ball

Business Manager

Michael Ball has been a key member of Sharp Consultancy since November 2013, bringing with him a wealth of experience accumulated since 1999. His career spans across various sectors including Sales, Marketing, IT, and Finance recruitment, making him a versatile and knowledgeable professional. ​

Emma Berry

Emma Berry

Consultant

​With over a year of dedicated service at Sharp Consultancy, Emma brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the role. Her academic achievements are impressive, having earned a BSc in Biomedical Science and an MSc in Molecular Medicine from the University of Sheffield. Emma gained valuable experience working ...

Nathaniel Bramhall

Nathaniel Bramhall

Sales Support Administrator

​Nathaniel Bramhall joined Sharp Consultancy in January 2025 as a Sales Support Administrator, bringing a dependable and analytical approach to the team. After building experience in retail and administrative roles across Sheffield, Nathaniel developed a strong foundation in providing high-quality business suppo...

Liam Connolly

Liam Connolly

Senior Consultant

​Liam Connolly brings over a decade of varied recruitment experience to Sharp Consultancy, where he has been an invaluable team member for the past six years. After completing a three-year stint at Wakefield College studying Sports Science, Liam transitioned from an Accounts Assistant role at Yorkshire Auto Trad...

Deanna Crosby

Deanna Crosby

Consultant

​Deanna joined Sharp Consultancy in the summer of 2023, and quickly became a valued member of the South Yorkshire team. Her educational background includes both an Undergraduate Degree and a Master's Degree in Psychology. Following her studies, she spent several years providing behavioural support in schools bef...

Jack Curtis

Jack Curtis

Business Director

With over eight years in the recruitment industry, Jack Curtis has perfected his expertise in identifying and placing top talent. During his four-year tenure at Sharp Consultancy, he has consistently provided exceptional recruitment solutions for both clients and candidates. Jack's educational journey began at L...

Tom Davage

Tom Davage

Senior Consultant

Tom Davage has been a dedicated team member at Sharp Consultancy since 2021, bringing a wealth of experience and a genuine passion for recruitment. Holding a history degree from Sheffield Hallam University, Tom's professional journey began in newspaper advert sales, where he discovered his true calling in the re...

Caitlin Davidson

Caitlin Davidson

Sales Support Manager

Caitlin is our dedicated Sales Support Manager operating across both the Sheffield and Leeds offices of Sharp Consultancy. Since joining the firm in 2018, Caitlin has steadily progressed through the ranks, showcasing her commitment to excellence and her aptitude for leadership. ​

Stuart Douglass

Stuart Douglass

Business Manager

Stuart Douglass has been an integral part of Sharp Consultancy since 2016, bringing with him a wealth of experience in the senior interim finance recruitment sector. With a career spanning over 22 years, Stuart has a deep understanding of the finance market in West and North Yorkshire. ​

Soraya Downing

Soraya Downing

Senior Consultant

​Soraya Downing joined Sharp Consultancy in January 2025 as a Senior Consultant, bringing a wealth of experience in finance recruitment and a naturally engaging approach. After completing sixth form, where she studied Economics, Sociology, and Politics, Soraya began her career at BT in the retention department, ...

Liam Fisher

Liam Fisher

Managing Consultant

​Liam joined Sharp Consultancy as a Managing Consultant in early 2025, bringing a strong track record in accountancy and finance recruitment. With several years of experience in the competitive London financial services market, Liam has developed a sharp, strategic approach to recruitment, now applying that expe...

Alex Kinch

Alex Kinch

Sales Support Administrator

​Alex joined Sharp Consultancy in early 2024. With a solid foundation in hospitality and retail spanning over four years and an academic background from the University of York, Alex Kinch brings a blend of customer service expertise and academic excellence. Alex holds a degree in History and History of Art, demo...

Charlie Marper

Charlie Marper

Business Manager

Charlie joined Sharp Consultancy in 2021, bringing extensive experience in the recruitment sector, specifically in Accountancy Practice recruitment across South, West, and North Yorkshire. His academic background includes a degree in Criminology, which provides a unique perspective and analytical skills benefici...

Colin Molyneux

Colin Molyneux

Executive Consultant

With a robust career spanning over 24 years in the recruitment industry, Colin Molyneux stands as one of Sharp Consultancy's most seasoned professionals. Holding a degree in Sports Science & Education, Colin has refined his expertise in sourcing and placing Qualified Interim professionals across West Yorkshi...

Liam O'Flaherty

Liam O'Flaherty

Senior Consultant

Liam O'Flaherty brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his role as Senior Consultant at Sharp Consultancy, where he has been a pivotal team member for the past four years. With a 23-year career in the recruitment industry, Liam has built a solid reputation for his knowledge and proficiency. <...

James Pleasance

James Pleasance

Consultant

​James Pleasance has been a dedicated Recruitment Consultant at Sharp Consultancy since early 2023. James has built a robust career in recruitment and sales. He started his career as a Sales Executive at a payment solutions company. He then transitioned into his first recruitment role with a regional recruiter b...

William Pleasance

William Pleasance

Senior Consultant

​With 3 years at Sharp Consultancy, William Pleasance has refined his expertise in recruiting Part Qualified and Qualified Accountants across Leeds, Wakefield, Harrogate, and York. His career is built on a solid foundation of educational and professional experiences shaping his consultative approach.

Mike Rowlands

Mike Rowlands

Consultant

​Mike Rowlands joined Sharp Consultancy in 2025 as a Consultant, bringing an impressive blend of drive, discipline, and people skills to the team. Before entering the world of recruitment, Mike spent several years competing as a professional skier for Team GB. ​

Adam Thomas

Adam Thomas

Consultant

Adam's career began after college when he entered banking with a well-known private bank. There, he discovered his passion for recruitment, which allowed him to support others while deepening his understanding of finance. His banking experience provides a solid foundation that enhances his recruitment skil...

Daniel Williams

Daniel Williams

Business Manager

​With over a decade of experience in finance recruitment, and a background in sales and customer engagement, Daniel Williams brings a great deal of knowledge and expertise to his role as a Business Manager at Sharp Consultancy. ​Daniel began his career in the ...

Abbie Willis

Abbie Willis

Finance Administrator

​Abbie Willis has been a vital part of Sharp Consultancy since 2022, serving as a Finance Administrator. Her extensive background in business administration includes Level 1 & 2 qualifications, RSA Typing, and various English qualifications. Abbie has amassed significant experience within Accounts Payable/Re...