Passing the Baton: The Art of Interim Leadership

"The most dangerous leadership myth is that leaders are born—that there is a genetic factor to leadership. The myth asserts that people simply either have certain charismatic qualities or not. That’s nonsense; in fact, the opposite is true. Leaders are made." – Warren Bennis

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Few roles are as challenging—or as misunderstood—as the interim leader. Whether stepping into the role of interim chair, associate dean, or even dean, you face unique pressures:

• You’re expected to lead with authority—but without the security of permanence.

• You may be interested in the permanent position—but every decision feels like part of a long job interview.

• You must make tough calls—but risk being seen as “caretaking” instead of leading.

It’s no wonder many describe the interim role as walking a tightrope. But here’s the truth: interim leaders can thrive when they approach the role with clarity, intentionality, and courage. Drawing from leadership theory and organizational development, here’s a survival guide with three actionable strategies.

1. Clarify Your Mandate Early

Key Idea: Direction reduces anxiety— for you and for others.

John Kotter reminds us that leadership begins with “establishing direction.” In interim roles, ambiguity is your greatest enemy. Without clarity, faculty and staff are left guessing whether you’re just “keeping the seat warm” or moving the unit forward.

Try This:

• Meet with your dean or supervisor to clarify expectations: are you meant to stabilize, innovate, or prepare for a transition?

• Share your priorities openly with faculty to set a tone of transparency.

• Anchor your mandate in service: emphasize continuity for students, faculty, and the college.

Example:
An interim chair tells their department, “My mandate is to stabilize, strengthen communication, and set up the next leader for success. That’s where I’ll focus our energy.”

2. Balance Courage with Diplomacy

Key Idea: Avoid the caretaker trap—but lead wisely.

In The Motive, Patrick Lencioni argues that true leadership requires a willingness to make hard, often unpopular decisions. But as an interim, every move feels scrutinized. The key is to choose courageous actions that are necessary—while avoiding unnecessary risks.

Try This:

• Distinguish between urgent issues that require action now and those that can be left for the permanent leader.

• Frame tough calls as stewardship. “This decision ensures our next leader inherits a healthier department.”

• Seek counsel from trusted advisors before acting on polarizing issues. You may need to float the concept to others (e.g. supervisor, legal)

Example:
An interim dean decides to address a toxic team dynamic. Instead of waiting, they intervene to reset expectations—framing it as “ensuring the next dean can start from a healthier place.”

3. Lead Like the Permanent Leader You May Become

Key Idea: You’re always on stage— but authenticity builds trust.

Credibility is built through consistency and integrity. If you’re interested in the permanent role, treat the interim period as an extended audition—but avoid becoming performative.

Try This:

• Demonstrate your vision by piloting small, meaningful initiatives that show progress without overreach.

• Be visible, accessible, and engaged with faculty and staff—relationships outlast titles.

• Focus less on “proving yourself” and more on serving well in the role you currently hold.

Example:
An interim associate dean creates a monthly open forum for faculty to share concerns. Whether or not they secure the permanent role, they’ve modeled transparency and responsiveness.

Final Thoughts:

Interim leadership is not a waiting game—it’s a proving ground. By clarifying your mandate, balancing courage with diplomacy, and leading authentically, you can turn a challenging in-between season into a defining chapter of your leadership journey.

Because the best interim leaders don’t just “hold the fort”—they leave it stronger than they found it.

Next Steps to Elevate Your Leadership:

Looking for a thought partner to support you as an interim leader. We offer professional coaching and mentorship as you navigate complex transitions in academic pharmacy. Together, you can achieve next-level results.

👉 Let’s Talk About Thriving in Interim Leadership.

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