In 2025, nearly one-third of newly appointed CEOs began their tenures as interim or temporary leaders. This marks a major shift toward a flexible, “gig-style” approach to top-level leadership.
Boards are increasingly turning to experienced, trusted executives when succession plans falter or transitions stall. These returning “boomerang CEOs” are often brought back in turbulent times to steer a company back on course—even though their second stints often underperform their first.
This trend signals a broader redefinition of what it means to hold the C-suite: roles are becoming more fluid, timelines shorter, and paths more project-based. For executives, it’s a chance to take on high-impact roles without long-term commitment; for boards, it offers agility during uncertain times.
However, the rise of gig-style CEOs also raises concerns about leadership continuity, succession readiness, and long-term talent development. The challenge for many companies now is balancing short-term gains with a solid pipeline for the future.