Institute of Interim Management affiliation signals growing consolidation in executive transition market

Valtus UK has joined the Institute of Interim Management (IIM) as an affiliate member, marking another step in the European interim management group's expansion strategy and highlighting the sector's increasing professionalisation.

The move comes as the interim executive market continues to mature, with established players seeking formal recognition and credentials to differentiate themselves in an increasingly crowded field. Valtus, which delivers nearly 900 assignments annually across Europe, joins a select group of firms aligned with the UK's only professional body for interim managers.

Founded in 2001, the Valtus Group has built a substantial presence across the continent with nine subsidiaries operating in 24 countries. The firm positions itself as Europe's leading provider of executive interim management, focusing on complex challenges including turnarounds, transformations and leadership gaps.

In the UK market, Valtus concentrates on industry and commerce sectors, providing what it describes as "hands-on expertise" to help clients navigate strategic transitions. The firm's affiliation with the IIM represents a commitment to best practice and ethical standards in interim recruitment, according to the professional body.

"The affiliation reflects shared values around professionalism and transparency across client and candidate engagements," the IIM stated in announcing the partnership. The institute, which represents independent interim professionals operating at board and near-board level, has been expanding its affiliate network as the sector seeks greater standardisation.

The interim management industry has experienced significant growth in recent years, driven by increasing corporate complexity and the need for specialised expertise during periods of change. Companies are increasingly turning to interim executives to navigate digital transformation, regulatory challenges and market disruption without the long-term commitment of permanent appointments.

For Valtus, the IIM affiliation provides access to a network of qualified interim professionals and reinforces its credentials in a market where trust and track record are paramount. The relationship also supports the development of interim management as a recognised profession, with standardised practices and ethical guidelines.

The partnership announcement comes alongside the publication of the IIM's 2025 interim management survey, which tracks market trends and compensation levels across the sector. The survey provides benchmark data for both clients and practitioners in an industry where transparency around rates and practices has historically been limited.

Industry observers note that formal affiliations like this reflect the interim market's evolution from an informal network of independent consultants to a more structured professional services sector. As corporates become more sophisticated buyers of interim talent, providers are seeking credible third-party validation of their standards and capabilities.

The timing also coincides with increased activity in the interim market, as businesses navigate post-pandemic recovery, supply chain disruption and economic uncertainty. These conditions have created demand for experienced executives who can deliver rapid impact without the recruitment timelines associated with permanent hires.

For the IIM, adding established players like Valtus to its affiliate network strengthens its position as the sector's representative body and supports its mission to promote professional standards across the industry.

Source: Institute of Interim Management announcement, 1 July 2025