How Much Does an Interim CEO Cost
An interim CEO in Europe typically runs 1,500 to 3,500 euro per day, with a monthly all-in cost between 25,000 and 60,000 euro for a full-time engagement. Rate depends on company size, situation risk, and how fast the board needs someone in the seat.
Typical ranges
- Small and mid-size companies (10 to 100M revenue): 1,500 to 2,200 euro per day
- Larger mid-market (100 to 500M revenue): 2,000 to 3,000 euro per day
- Turnaround, restructuring, or PE-backed: 2,500 to 3,500 euro per day
- Monthly all-in for full-time: 25,000 to 60,000 euro
What drives the number
The rate reflects three things: the size and complexity of the business, the risk profile of the situation (a healthy transition costs less than a covenant breach), and the speed of start. Same-week starts and turnarounds sit at the top of the range.
How it compares to a permanent CEO
A permanent CEO with equivalent seniority costs 300 to 500K euro base plus bonus, equity, and severance, plus 100 to 200K in search fees. Over a nine-month transition the interim route is usually cheaper than the permanent search plus the cost of drift.
What is usually included
- Full-time or four days per week on site
- Board reporting and investor communication
- Team leadership and P&L ownership
- Named successor plan and handover
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