Breaking the mould: Why senior lawyers are embracing more junior interim roles
In the contracting world, it’s not uncommon to see senior professionals taking on more junior interim roles, something that can seem surprising at first. However, there are several reasons why senior contractors make this choice, and it stems from their pragmatic approach to work rather than being tied to titles or status.
Here are just a few reasons why senior contractors embrace flexibility and consider more junior roles.
Flexibility and work-life balance
Experienced contractors often prefer flexibility over job titles, seeking roles that offer meaningful work without the long-term pressures of leadership. These interim positions allow them to maintain autonomy, manage their schedules and achieve a better work-life balance.
Open to learning and variety of work
Contracting offers the chance to work across diverse projects and industries, allowing senior contractors to acquire new skills and perspectives. It’s not about titles, but the opportunity for growth and professional development.
Focused on contribution, not title
Experienced contractors are driven by the impact they can make rather than titles or hierarchy. They value results and the ability to deliver tangible outcomes quickly, finding this more fulfilling than holding a senior position.
Motivated by more than just the money
While compensation matters, senior contractors are also motivated by personal goals, such as learning, contributing to meaningful causes or achieving work-life balance. Contract roles offer a way to stay active without the long-term pressure of senior roles.
Networking and upskilling
Contracting enables senior professionals to expand their networks, stay connected in their industry, and keep their skills up to date. Each role can lead to future opportunities through referrals or repeat engagements.
Confidence in expertise
With extensive experience, senior contractors are confident in their abilities and understand the value they bring, regardless of the role level. Their focus is on delivering quality work and mentoring teams, knowing their contribution.
A different mindset
When considering a contract role, it’s important to approach it with a different mindset than you would for a permanent position.
Unlike a long-term role, you don’t need to focus on career progression or internal politics. Instead, think about what this opportunity brings to your CV—whether it’s gaining new experience, exposure to a different sector, better work-life balance after an intense project, excellent pay, or the chance to work with a supportive legal team. Ultimately, the decision for a 6-12 month contract should be based on short-term benefits, not the long-term considerations of a permanent job.
Previous chapter: Fractional GC interview with Maria O’Connor
INTERIM GUIDE
- Introduction
- How to determine your market rate
- Day rate vs FTC
- Understanding payment models
- Stand out on LinkedIn
- Navigating employment gaps
- Interim interview questions
- What is a Fractional GC?
- Fractional GC interview: Stephanie Dominy
- Fractional GC interview: Maria O’Connor
- Why senior Lawyers are embracing junior interim roles
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Frequently asked questions from our clients
Experienced professionals may choose to go down the consulting route for several reasons:
Flexibility:
Consulting offers more flexibility than a traditional 9-to-5 job, as consultants can work on projects and assignments that suit their skills and interests. Consultants can choose their working hours and location, providing a better work-life balance.
Variety:
Consulting can provide an opportunity to work on various client projects, offering a diverse and dynamic work environment. This can help professionals avoid feeling stagnant or bored in their careers.
High Earning Potential:
Consulting can offer increased earning potential, particularly for specialised or niche areas of expertise.
Professional Development:
Consulting offers opportunities for professional development, as consultants are often exposed to new industries, technologies, and business practices. This can help professionals build new skills and knowledge and stay up-to-date on industry trends.
Autonomy:
Consulting offers the independence that may not be available in traditional corporate roles. In some cases, consultants can have more control over their work and decision-making and often work independently or in small teams. As a result, consulting can be an attractive career path for experienced professionals who value flexibility, variety, high earning potential, professional development and autonomy.
Not all contractors are necessarily looking to secure a permanent role, as many may choose to contract as a career. In addition, some contractors prefer the flexibility and autonomy that contracting offers and the opportunity to work on various projects with different clients.
That being said, some contractors may have a goal of eventually securing a permanent role. For example, they may use contracting to gain experience and build their network in a specific industry, intending to transition to a permanent role later on. Other contractors may enjoy their work but be open to permanent opportunities if they align with their career goals and values.
Each contractor has unique career goals and aspirations; recruiters and employers must understand and respect their preferences and motivations.
