Interim CIO: Dr. Claus Michael Sattler
Interim CIO
Why I'd rather be an interim CIO than a consultant!
When I started my career in data processing over 45 years ago, I would never have dreamed that I would one day be working as an interim CIO. But today, as interim Chief Information Officer (CIO) and board member of a medium-sized, internationally active pharmaceutical company, I can say that this decision was one of the best of my professional life.
The path to becoming an interim CIO
My path to becoming an interim CIO was not straightforward. Unlike many consultants, who often decide on this career path at a young age, I initially gained decades of experience in various industries [source: 4]. From the retail sector to the software industry, motorsport, the food industry, healthcare and the pharmaceutical industry – each stage has enriched my wealth of experience and prepared me for my current role.
Interim CIO vs. consulting: the key differences
Operational responsibility
Probably the most significant difference between an interim CIO and a consultant lies in the operational responsibility. As an interim manager, I actively intervene in day-to-day business and take responsibility for implementation
Practical orientation vs. concept development
Consultants often deliver open-ended processes and help solve problems with external expertise and concepts[3]. As an interim CIO, on the other hand, I not only contribute concepts but also implement them. This hands-on mentality reflects my personality and my desire to make a direct and measurable contribution to the company’s success.
Time horizon and flexibility
Interim CIOs usually work for a certain period of time, often until a permanent solution is found or a specific project is completed[1]. This time limit and the associated flexibility are particularly appealing to me. It allows me to concentrate fully on the challenges at hand without committing myself to a company in the long term.
Breadth vs. depth of expertise
While consultants often specialize in certain areas or industries, the interim CIO requires broader expertise. My diverse experience in various industries comes in handy here. It enables me to quickly grasp the specifics of a company and develop tailor-made solutions.
The growing importance of interim CIOs
The decision in favor of interim management came at a time when this form of corporate management is becoming increasingly important. According to a survey by the umbrella organization Deutsches Interim Management (DDIM), around 20% of companies now regularly rely on external expertise, and 47% expect this to become the norm in the future [source: 2].
The demand for interim CIOs is constantly increasing, especially in the SME sector, where I mainly work. Challenges such as the coronavirus pandemic, supply bottlenecks, geopolitical crises and advancing digitalization often require external support [source: 2]. As an interim CIO, I can provide fast and competent assistance here.
The advantages of interim management
Fast problem solving
One of the greatest strengths of the interim CIO is the ability to react quickly to urgent problems. In my career, I have often experienced how important it is to be ready for action in the shortest possible time and to start solving problems immediately [source: 2].
Flexibility and cost efficiency
Although interim managers may appear more expensive at first glance, they often offer companies a more cost-effective solution. The flexibility offered by short notice periods and the ability to deploy specific expertise exactly when it is needed are valuable advantages [source: 2].
Independence and fresh perspectives
As an external expert, I bring an unbiased view of the challenges facing a company. This independence enables me to make and implement unpopular but necessary decisions.
My personal motivation
The decision to become an interim manager was more than just a career choice for me. It was the opportunity to make the most of my decades of experience in various industries while constantly taking on new challenges.
As an interim manager, I can fully live out my passion for IT infrastructure management, OT/Industry 4.0 integration and data analytics. Every new project offers the opportunity to expand my knowledge and at the same time make a measurable contribution to the success of a company.
Conclusion
The decision to become an interim CIO was the logical next step in my career. It allows me to put my extensive experience to the best possible use, react flexibly to new challenges and contribute directly to the success of companies.
At a time when companies are increasingly confronted with complex and rapidly changing challenges, interim management offers a valuable alternative to traditional management consulting. It combines strategic thinking with operational implementation and thus enables fast, effective solutions.
For me personally, interim management is the perfect combination of professional fulfillment and the opportunity to continuously learn and grow. It is a role that I fulfill with passion and conviction and that I can recommend to anyone looking for a dynamic and influential position in the business world.
Sources
- https://ceinterim.com/de/interim-management-vs-unternehmensberatung/
- https://cmsattler.de/index.php/2024/05/24/claus-michael-sattler-interim-manager-gewinnen-im-mittelstand-an-bedeutung/
- https://graser.co.at/berater-oder-interim-manager/
- https://www.pabstconsulting.de/index.php/f%C3%BCr-unternehmen/interim-management/unterschied-interim-manager-zu-consultant.html
- https://answers.brainguide.de/Was-ist-der-Unterschied-zwischen-einem-Interim-Management-und-einer-Unternehmensberatung
- https://www.bridge-imp.com/blog-inside-interim/artikel/interim-management-versus-beratung.html
- https://www.atreus.de/blog/interim-manager-unterschied-unternehmensberater/
- Image: ChatGPT
Dr. Claus Michael Sattler
