The majority of UK businesses (51 per cent) are planning major change or restructuring programmes in the next 12 months.
In addition, thirty per cent of companies are optimistic about the prospects for growth and plan to undertake a programme of expansion.
The research, commissioned by interim executive providers BIE2, also showed that approximately one quarter (24 per cent) of firms expected to make acquisitions in the next 12 months.
BIE managing director Martin Wood said: "This research shows how much change is now taking place in British business, and the pressing need for experienced managers who can come in and offer instant advice and delivery.
Th research also revealed that there are high levels of confidence in the change-management ability of interim executives sourced through a professional supplier.
Nine out of ten (91 per cent) directors from large firms said they were confident in interims being able to manage a change programme successfully outstripping internal resources (73 per cent) and management consultants (68 per cent)comfortably.
"Senior interim executives, who can provide incisive advice and deliver business transforming results within a short period of time are a rare breed, said Wood. The only way for organisations planning a change programme or transition to ensure they get the quality interim support they need is to use a specialist interim management provider.
To go anywhere else for interims risks missing the opportunity to maximise the use of this still under-utilised resource."