How interim finance talent is shaping the SME market - Blackwaters

1. Hiring interim finance professionals is an ideal solution for many SMEs Interim finance talent is becoming an increasingly popular option for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) looking for specialised financial expertise on a short-term basis. These senior financial professionals are hired on a temporary contract to help companies navigate specific financial challenges or projects, providing companies with the flexibility they need to manage their finances effectively. One of the ways that interim finance talent is shaping the SME market is by improving financial decision-making. These candidates bring a wealth of experience from various industries and companies, and this experience can be invaluable in helping SMEs make informed decisions. By providing an objective viewpoint, they can help SMEs develop strategies that improve profitability, cash flow, and operational efficiency. They can also be a cost-effective solution to companies' financial needs. SMEs may not always have the resources to hire a full-time finance director or CFO, but they still require specialised financial expertise to help them manage their finances effectively. By hiring an interim finance professional, SMEs can access a wider range of financial skills and experience that they may not be able to find in- house, without committing to a long-term hire. Experience in going through periods of change, such as during mergers, acquisitions, or management changes, and they can provide a steady hand during these periods of uncertainty and help ensure that the company's financial processes remain stable. Also, interim finance talent is providing the SME market with a more flexible workforce. The business world is changing rapidly, and SMEs need to be able to adapt quickly to changes in said markets. Interim management challenges One potential challenge with hiring interims is ensuring that they fit in with the existing team and culture. That being said, most will have experience working with a wide range of companies and teams, and so have development adaptability. Interim CFOs and finance directors can quickly get up to speed on the company's operations and work collaboratively with existing team members to achieve the company's financial goals. Interim finance talent can be an effective solution for SMEs looking to access specialised financial expertise on a short-term basis. They offer a flexible option for companies looking to manage their finances effectively, and they can provide a fresh perspective and valuable insights to help SMEs overcome financial challenges. As the business world continues to evolve and change rapidly, the demand for interim roles is likely to increase, and SMEs would do well to consider this option when faced with financial challenges.

2. Blackwater’s Interim Management services We are a specialist finance search partner. Our expertise in both permanent and interim search combined with our friendly, proactive style is trusted by hundreds of private equity-backed SMEs. By partnering with us, you will have access to a wide talent pool of the best interim CFOs, finance directors, and other finance roles in the UK. Miles Otway from Connect Capital said: “Blackwaters is a key partner for Connection Capital in filling senior finance roles and has recruited numerous interim and permanent CFOs for our portfolio companies. Blackwaters fulfils all the key criteria we look for in an exec search partner, really understanding our approach and what fits each portfolio business and taking the time to deliver a comprehensive review of the market to find quality candidates.” Get in touch with us today to find out more about our interim management services.