The future of leadership: Michael Gorringe
How do interim managers navigate a constantly changing landscape? In the series ”The future of leadership”, we talk to industry professionals about the skills needed for the future. The conversations take their cue from the top-level academic training for interim leaders to be held in Gothenburg in May 2026, where theory meets practice to equip tomorrow's leaders. Today we meet Michael Gorringe, a seasoned interim leader who combines strategic gravitas with practical AI expertise to create measurable business value. With over 15 years in the industry, he shares why continuous skills development and the courage to challenge are crucial to staying relevant.
What requirements do you see for interim managers' skills right now?
The demand for measurable productivity gains is increasing enormously. It's not enough to ‘just take over’ a business for a period of time, you're expected to leave a lasting value. Today, the way to get there is often spelled AI and breadth. Having hands-on experience in implementing AI tools is basically a prerequisite now. At the same time, a huge range is expected; one moment I'm in strategic management team work, the next I'm programming in Python or updating a website.
How do you systematically keep your skills relevant?
I actively invest time in being curious. I attend courses, participate in industry forums and network with spokespeople on social media. One concrete tip is to keep an eye on the specifications in new job descriptions - it gives a direct insight into how the demands on us are changing and what I need to focus on to keep winning jobs.
What skills are most important to maximize your impact in today's fast-paced world?
Courage. You need to dare to take a stand, propose innovative solutions and rely on your own experience to make a difference. When I first meet a client, I make it clear that they have to trust my expertise. After all, that's why I'm there - I know what I'm doing because I've done it before.
What kind of immersion do you see as most valuable for an interim manager?
The ability to put new knowledge into a broader business context. Learning for learning's sake yields very little; it is about being able to translate knowledge into practical applications that drive measurable benefits. It takes experience to navigate between strategic and operational realities in a way that is actually felt in the results.
What is your best advice to stay competitive going forward?
Be responsive and accept that you will never finish your development. Investing in your skills is what makes you agile enough to meet new demands. And don't forget: highlight the result you've achieved, not just the jobs you've done. It is the results that differentiate you and prove your relevance in a changing world.
About Michael Gorringe
Michael Gorringe has over 15 years of experience in interim management roles focusing on marketing, communications, PR and business development. Today he runs several parallel assignments for both Swedish and international IT companies. Based in Stockholm, he works extensively across the globe, combining strategic management team work with operational excellence in areas such as AI implementation and programming.
Do you want to turn new knowledge into measurable business benefits?
As Michael emphasizes, theoretical knowledge is not enough - it must be translated into practical results. On May 18-22, the Interim Management Professional Program in Gothenburg. The program is designed to give you the strategic depth required to deliver measurable value in your future assignments.
