The numbers of interim managers will rocket by more than 20% during the next six months.

Sectors such as financial services, manufacturing and technology are leading the demand, according to the Hitchenor Wakeford’s Interim Management Index.

John Wakeford, managing director of Hitchenor Wakeford, said: “The booming use of interim managers looks set to continue in 2008. The dip in the economy means companies need to get leaner and meaner. Experienced executives are in high demand for short term positions to steer companies through rocky conditions.

“Companies are increasingly pulling in people who have experience in other sectors to give them extra knowledge. With the war for talent tougher than ever before, companies will need to ensure their management teams are stocked with the right people.”

The interim management sector is predicted to be worth a record £550 million by the end of 2008.