Interim, Contractor & Fractional Recruitment

Businesses across the UK are increasingly turning to interim, contractor, and fractional recruitment solutions to access niche skill sets for critical projects. Whether it's delivering a digital transformation programme, migrating to a new software platform, or strengthening HR and finance functions, hiring flexible talent provides both agility and expertise.

At NRG, we partner with organisations to source high-performing professionals for specific assignments, from senior leadership roles to technical project delivery. These solutions are ideal when you need experienced people who can add immediate value without the commitment of a permanent hire.

Why Flexible Talent is on the Rise

Interim, fractional and contractor roles are being used more widely across multiple industries. And it's not just for short-term cover anymore.

Organisations are using this approach to:

Deliver business-critical projects without delay
Access rare or specialist expertise
Respond quickly to change or periods of growth
Control costs and retain flexibility in headcount

This shift is backed by recent UK data:

83% of UK finance and accounting managers expect to hire contractors or project-based talent in 2025*
75% of contractors now prefer contracts lasting at least six months**
LinkedIn profiles citing ‘fractional’ roles in the UK grew from 2,000 in 2022 to over 110,000 in 2024***
The UK construction industry will need an additional 47,860 workers each year until 2029 to meet demand****

These figures point to a clear trend: more businesses are seeking targeted, high-impact talent solutions without the long-term commitments of permanent recruitment.

What Roles Are Best Suited to Interim, Fractional or Contract Hiring?

This approach can be particularly effective in project-based work or where specialist knowledge is required. Here are some examples:

HR and Organisational Development

Whether you are restructuring, implementing a new HR system, or embedding a culture change programme, bringing in an interim HR Director or project lead offers strategic expertise exactly when it's needed.

Finance and Governance

Hiring a contractor or interim finance professional allows businesses to manage peaks in workload, support year-end reporting, or prepare for audit. Fractional finance leaders can provide part-time CFO-level input across multiple organisations, supporting scale-up, investment readiness, or turnaround projects.

Engineering and Technical Delivery

In areas like construction, renewable energy, or capital infrastructure, contractors and interim project managers bring in-demand skills that align with key delivery milestones. As net-zero targets and sustainability initiatives grow, many employers are turning to interim support to meet compliance and delivery deadlines.

Technology and Digital Transformation

From software implementation to data migration or cyber upgrades, tech contractors and fractional CTOs help organisations modernise with minimal disruption. Their experience means they can lead on delivery while mentoring internal teams for long-term success.

The Benefits of a Flexible Talent Model

Speed - Contractors and interim professionals can typically be deployed in a matter of days or weeks.

Expertise - They often bring deep sector knowledge, with experience across multiple businesses and project types.

Focus - With clearly defined outcomes, interim and contract professionals are highly delivery-focused.

Cost Control - Hiring on a project or part-time basis ensures your workforce spend is aligned to business needs.

Objectivity - Interim leaders bring fresh thinking and can often cut through internal challenges to move things forward.

How NRG Supports Flexible Recruitment

We work closely with our clients to understand the purpose and scope of each assignment, then connect them with trusted professionals who are ready to make an impact.

Our support includes:

Access to a curated network of specialist contractors, interims and fractional leaders
Guidance on role scoping, contract terms and day rates
Expertise in compliance, including IR35 considerations
Sector-specific insight to inform your talent strategy

We also work with professionals looking to build rewarding interim or contract careers. Whether you are experienced in this type of work or exploring it for the first time, our consultants are here to support your journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between interim, contractor and fractional recruitment?

Interim recruitment involves hiring a professional on a temporary basis, typically full-time, to lead or support a defined period of change, such as covering maternity leave or delivering a project.
Contractor recruitment refers to sourcing individuals with specialist skills for short-term assignments, often working on a day-rate or fixed-term basis.
Fractional recruitment involves hiring senior professionals, such as CFOs or HR Directors, to work part-time across multiple organisations, providing leadership without the need for a full-time hire.

When should a business consider hiring an interim or contractor?

Interim and contract professionals are ideal when:

You need specialist expertise to deliver a time-sensitive project
There is a temporary gap in leadership or capability
Your business is undergoing transformation or restructuring
You want to scale quickly without increasing permanent headcount

What are the benefits of hiring fractional talent?

Fractional hires give you access to senior-level skills and strategic input without the cost of a full-time executive. This is especially useful for growing businesses or those navigating investment, compliance, or digital transformation who need part-time leadership support.

How quickly can NRG help us find a contractor or interim professional?

Our established network means we can often introduce suitable contractors or interim leaders within days of taking a brief. We’ll work with you to understand the scope, timescales and key outcomes, and move quickly to shortlist high-calibre candidates who meet your needs.

Is IR35 a concern when hiring contractors?

IR35 compliance is a key consideration when engaging contractors. At NRG, we help our clients understand the legislation and assess each engagement appropriately, so that you can make informed decisions and remain compliant.

Ready to Get Started?

If your business is facing a challenge, gearing up for growth, or preparing for change, flexible hiring may be the most effective solution.

Speak to one of our recruitment consultants today for tailored advice on interim, fractional and contractor recruitment. We’ll help you access the right expertise at the right time, so your project delivers real value.