Leadership Lounge: How to Succeed as an Interim CEO

Interim CEO appointments are on the rise. As boards contend with increasing leadership turnover, unexpected CEO departures, and growing pressure from stakeholders, many are turning to interim leaders to provide stability while they identify the right long-term successor.

But succeeding as an interim CEO is far from straightforward. Leaders are often expected to build trust quickly, make important decisions with limited information, and create momentum across the organization—all while operating under significant uncertainty about their own future.

So, how can interim CEOs succeed in the role? In this episode of Leadership Lounge, Emma Combe sits down with Efe Ekhaese, Aimee Williamson, and Justus O'Brien—who share their perspectives on:

▪ Why boards are increasingly appointing interim CEOs

▪ The unique pressures and challenges that come with leading on an interim basis

▪ How leaders can build trust, clarity, and momentum during periods of transition

▪ What aspiring permanent CEOs should consider when navigating interim appointments

"The most fraught word in interim leadership is ambiguity. The first question that an interim CEO needs to ask is: Why am I here? What am I trying to accomplish?"

Justus O'Brien

Leadership Advisor, Russell Reynolds Associates

Listen now on Apple, Spotify, and YouTube.

Four things you'll learn from this episode