Interim CEO Wants Permanent Role

Executives who hold the title of “interim CEO” must compete effectively if they want to win the permanent role.

Compete to win the permanent role as interim CEO

“The board asked me to be the interim CEO about three months ago,” she shared. “I agreed and let them know I would be interested in the permanent role.”

“Great,” I replied. “Then what?”

“Well,” she said, then paused. “Nothing, really. The board selected an executive recruiting firm to manage the search and I’ve heard nothing since.”

“Oh,” I said. “Have you asked for an update?”

“I did talk to one of the board members. He said since I expressed interest in the job then I would have to be treated like all the other candidates so it’s fair,” she said. “Should I be worried?”

There is always reason to be doubtful when the company hires an outside firm if you are the inside candidate. It doesn’t mean you won’t be considered or even win the job. It does mean they are not entirely convinced you are the right person for the role.

If you want the job, then you have to compete. You can’t sit back and wait for them to come to you. If you were the heir apparent, they would have already done so and saved the money spent on the recruiting firm.

Be proactive, as you are essentially auditioning for the role of permanent CEO of that organization. Act like a CEO, and show the board and/or hiring authority that you can do the role. If they can picture you as CEO, then the “interim” tag may be dropped. Reach out to Endeavor as we can help you win the permanent role with our executive career coaching experts who can guide you through to winning the role and advancing your career.

Keep in mind, if a new leader comes in, they will want their own leaders around them. You were a competitor for the role and they might not want you around much longer. Be prepared.

Follow Endeavor on  Facebook  |  LinkedIn

About Endeavor Agency


Endeavor Agency is the nation’s leading company helping individual executives, VPs, senior managers, professionals, and physicians find the jobs they truly want. Our additional resources, expertise, and career change specialists help our clients uncover more and better job opportunities than what they could access on their own.


Endeavor Agency helps rebrand clients to effectively communicate their value throughout the interview process and increase their odds dramatically of winning offers. Additionally, Endeavor Agency helps clients achieve better results in negotiating the terms of their employment agreements.


Endeavor Agency also provides executive coachingoutplacement services, and business consulting services. Endeavor can also help guide executives focused on the private equity and venture capital market segments.

Meeting in conference room going over outplacement services options and benefits.
June 9, 2025
Outplacement Services Firms Can Help Small and Mid-Sized Businesses, Which May Lack a Human Resources Department, Help Facilitate Employee Separations. These Firms Utilize Their Expertise and Resources to Help Support Displaced Employees and Help Protect Businesses.
Two professionals shaking hands after a job interview.
June 6, 2025
For Interviews at the Executive, VP, Senior, and Professional Levels, Preparation Is Much More Than Just Rehearsing Answers. You Must Position Yourself as a Strategic Asset to That Organization.
Taking a Vacation During a Job Search – Part I
May 22, 2025
Summer Is a Prime Opportunity for Vacations, Especially for Families With Kids Out of School. But What if You’re In-Between Jobs or Actively Searching? Should You Go? Click/tap For Our Insight.
Professional woman looking at herself in a mirror
April 30, 2025
“I Own It. It’s My Fault. I Can Change It.” These Powerful Words Reflect True Personal Accountability—A Mindset That Can Transform Your Life When Spoken With Sincerity.
professional male thinking about answering his mobile phone
April 16, 2025
Your Phone Vibrates. You See and Recognize the Number. It’s the Call for an Interview for Your Dream Executive Job. What Do You Do?
man negotiating contract and is looking displeased
March 20, 2025
Learn Your Available Ways Forward in Your Executive Job Search When You Have to Negotiate Against a Low Offer.
male businessman reaching out to his network asking about jobs that are not advertised
February 20, 2025
Only Applying to Publicly Posted Jobs? You Are Missing Out in the Hidden Job Market. Endeavor Agency Can Help You Access Unadvertised Job Opportunities to Find a Better Job.
image of robot in front of chalkboard
February 17, 2025
Computers and Artificial Intelligence Do Not Make Hiring Decisions. They Are Made by Humans, Who Are Emotional Beings.
Premier Outplacement Services Bring Human-Centric Touch | Endeavor Agency
February 17, 2025
Endeavor Agency Recently Helped a Downsized Employee Who Was Not Happy With Outplacement Services Offered by Her Previous Employer. Discover How We Supported Her Successful Job Search Journey.
Outplacement Services Benefit Employers & Support Former Employees | Endeavor Agency
February 10, 2025
Outplacement Services Support One or Multiple Employees Who Are Being Laid off or Terminated for Whatever Reason.
More Posts