Why Hire an Interim CFO? Public Companies Can’t Afford a Financial Leadership Gap
When a public company CFO leaves unexpectedly, the pressure is on. Reporting deadlines, investor calls, and team continuity can’t wait. And it’s a growing problem. CFO turnover among S&P companies hit the highest level in six years in 2024. That’s why more boards are hiring interim CFOs — experienced financial leaders who can step in immediately, stabilize operations, and build confidence.
To explore how this works in real time, InterimExecs CEO Robert Jordan sat down with two seasoned finance veterans, Mitch Cohen and Lawrence Firestone. Both have extensive experience as public company CFOs.

Why Hire an Interim CFO: Key Takeaways

  • Public companies can’t afford CFO gaps — the risk to compliance and investor confidence is high.
  • Interim CFOs bring a track record of success, can make fast decisions, and solidify Wall Street credibility.
  • Boards should focus on experience, chemistry, and execution — not just resumes.
  • InterimExecs can match you with a proven CFO in under 48 hours.

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What Is a Fractional CIO — and When Should You Hire One?

Not every company needs a full-time CIO (Chief Information Officer). But nearly every company needs smart, strategic technology leadership.

Enter the fractional CIO — a senior executive who brings years of tech and business experience to your company on a part-time or project basis. Whether you’re scaling fast, modernizing outdated IT infrastructure, preparing for a sale, or looking for IT to fuel your business growth, a fractional CIO gives you the leadership you need — without the full-time overhead.

What Is a Fractional CIO?

A fractional CIO is a highly experienced technology executive who works with your organization on a part-time basis. Their job: guide IT strategy, lead critical initiatives, and align your technology investments with your business goals.

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How to Become an Interim CFO: Lessons from 3 Pros Who Have Made the Leap

Making the leap from full-time finance professional to interim Chief Financial Officer isn’t just a career pivot—it’s a strategic reinvention. Whether you’re eyeing more flexibility, craving fresh challenges, or looking to leverage your financial expertise across multiple organizations, the interim CFO path offers high-reward opportunities. Demand for interim and fractional CFOs is soaring driven by market disruptions, private equity needs, and leadership gaps in existing companies.

But what does it really take to thrive in an interim role? InterimExecs CEO Robert Jordan spoke with three veteran interim CFOs who’ve successfully made the transition. Their insights reveal the mindset shifts, skills, and realities every seasoned financial management leader should know before stepping into the role.

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When Does it Make Sense to Structure an Interim Gig as a Statement of Work Contract?

One of the hottest trends in the hot market for interim executives is structuring interim engagements as a “statement of work” contract. Here, we take a deep dive into this trend and look at when it makes the most sense for a company to negotiate a statement of work contract, when it makes the most sense for an interim, and when it simply doesn’t make sense for either.

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Mitch Cohen and Larry Firestone on Why Public Companies Need Interim CFOs

InterimExecs CEO Robert Jordan sat down with two seasoned finance veterans, Mitch Cohen and Lawrence Firestone to talk about the critical moment public companies face when the Chief Financial Officer job is vacant and why an interim CFO is the best way to fill the role until a new permanent hire can be brought on board.

Both Cohen and Firestone have extensive experience as permanent and interim CFOs for public companies.

This is an edited transcript of their conversation:

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When a Public Company CFO Leaves: Why “Now” is the Only Acceptable Timeline for Bringing in a Replacement

CFOs at private companies may come and go with little fanfare or long-term damage to the organization. But the sudden departure of a chief financial officer from a publicly traded company can send a tidal wave of worry through investors, employees, and stakeholders alike.

The CFO is the financial compass, the strategic partner, the place where the buck stops when it comes to fiscal responsibility and reporting.

And when the CFO role at a public company is vacant, the urgency to fill the void is paramount. “Later” simply isn’t an option. Let’s delve into why a public company needs a strong CFO, and needs them now. And then we’ll explore why many companies turn to an experienced interim CFO to bridge the gap​.

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U.S. Tariffs, Potential and Otherwise: An Analysis from a European Interim Executive Operating in Mexico

What impact could a potential increased customs tariff of 25% have on Mexico, assuming all exports from Mexico into the U.S. will be affected similarly?

Let’s do some simple math. If the cost of goods sold is about 50% (+/- 10%), multiply that by 1.25 to reflect the increased cost under a 25% tariff. It could make these goods 10-15% more expensive for U.S. consumers.

That has the potential to result in significant inflation. Not good for U.S. economic growth since the price increases will not be considered GDP growth. What happens then? The U.S. administration, facing backlash over double-digit inflation rates, will call for the Federal Reserve to cut interest rates.

How will the markets for stock and crypto react? If we take goods that are pure imports from Mexico (no final manufacturing or assembly in Mexico), the price hike would be closer to 25%. I do not think significant price reductions are possible to reduce this burden unless manufacturers significantly reduce quality – a concern for consumers and a time lag on the entire market.

The consequences of such a burden would be evident immediately. Case in point: Consider recent events, when the US administration announced tariffs on Mexico and Canada and then postponed them the next day.

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Give Us Your Shills, Your Deadbeats, Your Huddled Signers Yearning to Cover for Disguised Anonymous LLC Owner: The Quiz for Executives

True call, came in just now:

Caller: “I’m a lawyer in California with a client in XW (redacting state name so goons don’t come after us). We need a manager for an LLC. Do you have a COO who could sign a member LLC agreement?

InterimExecs: “You mean an interim COO? Do you have existing operations?”

Caller: “No, it’s a startup.”

InterimExecs: “Ok, well, what kind of operations are planned, how many employees, what kind of funding?”

Caller: “We need someone to sign because the state requires a member signature and they’d have to sign in all the places. In the construction industry.”

InterimExecs: “But this is an operational role?”

Caller: “No, The CEO does not want to disclose his identity.”

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From Betrayal to Breakthrough: Transforming Victimhood into Empowerment

When’s the last time you felt betrayed?

I’m talking about deep, dark, soul-crushing betrayal.

If you remember it vividly, your stomach might be tightening as your heartbeat quickens just thinking about it. Betrayal can be heartbreaking and enraging all at once.

Once upon a time, I had an agreement with a statewide organization. (I won’t name the state, but let’s just say it rhymes with “Flexas.”) The head of the organization called me to apologize. Apparently, their written rules, which I had meticulously followed, didn’t matter anymore.

She admitted that despite attending all the trainings, earning all the certifications, and investing in my business with a website, business cards, and marketing materials, I wouldn’t be awarded any contracts. Ever.

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Stop Sending Resumes! It’s a Loser’s Game for Interim and Fractional Execs

Resumes are for job seekers. But you’re not a job seeker. You’re an interim executive wired for driving value, creating wealth, and scaling up. Your focus as an interim and fractional executive is on problem-solving. So stop blanketing the world with your resume.

Instead, master your pitch. Craft a compelling pitch that highlights your expertise and the value you can bring to an organization in need.

Identify pain points and opportunities within organizations and present solutions.

Remember: The perfect elevator pitch is not about your past experiences; it’s about the future you can create.

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