Retained vs Contingent vs Interim: Decision Tree for CEO Gap
For a 6 to 9 month CEO gap, boards choose between retained search, contingent search, and interim placement. The wrong choice adds 3 to 6 months of drift. This decision tree makes the call in ten minutes.
Route comparison
The decision tree
- Is the seat empty in more than 4 weeks and stays empty? Interim.
- Is a permanent CEO already identified but needs 6 to 9 months to start? Interim to bridge.
- Is the CEO in seat but exit is planned in 9 to 12 months? Retained search now, no interim.
- Is the board unsure of the role definition? Interim first, then retained once the mandate is clear.
https://niklaslindahl.com/guides/retained-vs-contingent-vs-interim-decision-tree