What is the difference between an Interim, a Contractor and a Temporary Worker when considered in the field of Programme and Project Management?
I would be interested in people’s views as to how they would define each of the three titles commonly associated with people who deliver services which are not paid through the employing organisations payroll.
My initial thoughts: Effectively an Interim, a Contractor or a Temporary Worker is one and the same thing, a person that you buy in who is most suited to your requirements, for an agreed period of time, at an agreed hourly or daily rate.
Our experience of the market tells us that the terms “Interim”, “Contractor” and “Temporary Worker” tend to be used as a way of differentiating the perceived skill levels, creating a hierarchy amongst candidates who fill temporary positions.
Typically:
- An Interim Manager operates at a senior strategic or executive level within an organisation. Typically engaged to deliver a strategic piece of work or to cover a senior post until a permanent hire is placed.
- A Contractor brings a high level of skill and knowledge in their chosen field and is paid a day rate for their services. The majority of Contractors operate through a Limited company or use the services of an umbrella company.
- Temporary Worker generally operates at the doing level and may typically be paid hourly. Many temporary workers do not operate any sort of company and are paid through PAYE by their supplying agency.
I must admit that it reminds me of the famous Frost Report sketch featuring John Cleese, Ronnie Barker and Ronnie Corbett: “I know my place”!
I look forward to reading your thoughts on the matter.
