What is an acting (interim-appointed) leader?

An acting leader is a person who temporarily takes over the leadership of an organisation, department, or company during a period when the permanent leader is absent or the position has not yet been filled. This often occurs in connection with illness, parental leave, resignation, or while a new leader is being recruited. The purpose of appointing an acting leader is to ensure that the organisation continues to operate effectively and with stability.

What will you learn in this article?

In this article, you will learn:

• What it means to be an acting leader
• Why and when an acting leader is necessary
• Who can take on the role of acting leader
• Typical challenges and how they can be managed

Why choose an acting leader?

An acting leader can be a strategic necessity for several reasons:

Ensuring continuity

An acting leader keeps operations running without disruption while a permanent solution is being sought.

Experience and competence

Many acting leaders have strong professional qualifications that enable them to step into the role quickly and effectively.

Flexibility

The organisation gains time to focus on a thorough recruitment process without unnecessary pressure.

This solution is particularly valuable in sectors such as independent schools and public-sector organisations, where stability and trust among employees are critical.

Who can be an acting leader?

An acting leader may be:

An internal employee

Someone who already knows the organisation and can step directly into the role.

An external specialist

An experienced leader whose competencies match the organisation’s needs during the transition period. In such cases, an interim solution is often used.

In some situations, an existing department manager may temporarily fill the role to ensure a smooth transition.

Challenges of appointing an acting leader

Introducing an acting leader can present certain challenges that the organisation should be aware of:

Perception of authority

Employees may hesitate to follow decisions made by a temporary leader.

Time limitation

The temporary nature of the role may create uncertainty about long-term plans.

Limited scope

An acting leader may focus on maintaining the status quo rather than driving major development initiatives.

How do you ensure success with an acting leader?

For an acting leader to create value, the organisation should:

• Communicate clearly: Create transparency around the leader’s responsibilities and mandate
• Provide support: Ensure the acting leader has access to resources and backing from both management and employees
• Set clear goals: Define specific and measurable objectives for the period

With the right approach, an acting leader can be an effective solution that ensures stability and supports positive development within the organisation while a permanent solution is being found.