UK fractional executives typically command £800-£1,500 per day, with London rates at the higher end (£900-£1,500) and regional cities like Manchester and Edinburgh at £750-£1,200. Rates vary by role, sector, and experience level. CFOs and CISOs generally command the highest rates, while emerging roles like fractional CDOs are seeing rapid rate growth.

Most UK fractional roles require 2-3 days per week, though this varies significantly. Early-stage startups may need more intensive engagement (3-4 days), while established companies often work on 1-2 days per week. According to CIPD research, the average is 2.3 days per week with flexibility built into most arrangements.

Approximately 55% of UK fractional roles offer hybrid arrangements, with 30% fully remote and 15% primarily on-site. London roles tend toward more on-site presence, while regional and Remote UK roles offer greater flexibility. Post-pandemic, most companies expect at least occasional in-person meetings for board presentations and team leadership.

UK companies typically seek fractional executives with 10-15+ years of experience, including prior C-suite or senior leadership roles. Professional qualifications matter: ACA/ACCA/CIMA for CFOs, relevant tech certifications for CTOs, and CIM/DMA credentials for CMOs. Sector experience and a track record at recognisable companies carry significant weight.

London dominates with 60% of all UK fractional opportunities, followed by the South East (15%), Manchester and the North West (10%), and Scotland (8%). However, regional demand is growing faster than London, with Manchester seeing 35% year-on-year growth in fractional roles.

The most effective approaches are: registering with specialist platforms like Fractional Quest, building a LinkedIn presence targeting fractional work, networking through the Institute of Directors and sector-specific groups, and maintaining relationships with PE/VC firms who frequently place fractional executives in their portfolio companies.