Starfish shortlisted as 6th in the 2026 IIM Interim Management Survey

We are delighted to share that Starfish Search has been recognised in the latest Institute of Interim Management (IIM) Survey.

The survey, based around insights from thousands of interim professionals each year, ranks providers and individuals based on peer feedback and experience.

The IIM – Institute of Interim Management Survey doesn’t just recognise firms, it also celebrates the individuals who go above and beyond to support interim careers with insight, empathy and action.

This year, our very own Lorraine Payne, Partner at Starfish Search, has once again been recognised as one of the UK’s top interim consultants, and has this year climbed to second place in the rankings.

This is a fantastic achievement both individually and professionally and we are proud to see Lorraine rise in the rankings year on year.

This year’s achievements reflect both continued progress and the strength of relationships Starfish has built across the interim community.

The IIM rankings are unique in that they are driven by responses from interim managers themselves, offering an authentic view of how providers perform across the market.

Catherine Kift, Director at Starfish Search comments:

“The result is a true reflection of our team’s hard work and the trust our candidates place in us every day. A huge thank you to everyone who has been part of this story, including our team, our clients, and our candidates.”

We recognise the vital role the survey plays in shaping understanding of the interim market. Each year, the survey explores key trends including demand, day rates, confidence levels and ways of working, helping to create a clearer, more informed picture of the sector.”

Lorraine Payne, Partner at Starfish Search, added:

“Being placed 2nd in this survey genuinely means the world to me. It fuels my desire to keep growing, to sharpen the insight I bring and deepen the support I give to clients and candidates alike. But this isn’t mine alone, the wider Starfish Search team deserve huge credit. We lead with collaboration and shared values, and moments like this remind me why that matters.”

The full results of the 2026 IIM Survey will be published soon.