Fractional Executive Assistant
Get C-suite calibre executive support without the full-time cost—flexible, professional EA services for busy founders and executives
Key Takeaways
- 1Fractional CFOs work 1-3 days per week, providing senior expertise without full-time costs
- 2UK day rates range from £800 to £1500, depending on experience and sector
- 3Typical engagements save 50-70% compared to full-time executive hires
- 4Ideal for startups, scale-ups, and SMEs needing strategic leadership
- 5No employment overhead: no pension, NI, benefits, or notice periods
A fractional executive assistant is a highly experienced EA who provides part-time support to multiple executives or companies. They bring C-suite level skills in diary management, stakeholder coordination, and business support—giving founders, CEOs, and senior leaders professional EA support without the cost and commitment of a full-time hire. This model is growing rapidly as remote work makes flexible EA arrangements more viable.
What is a Fractional Executive Assistant?
Quick Definition
A fractional executive assistant is an experienced EA who works with multiple clients on a part-time basis, typically 1-3 days per week per client. They provide the same high-level support as a full-time EA—diary management, travel booking, meeting coordination, correspondence—but on a flexible, scalable basis. Many work remotely, using technology to provide seamless support regardless of location.
Day Rates for Fractional Executive Assistants in the UK
Fractional executive assistants in the UK typically charge between £200-400 per day. Rates depend on experience level, client seniority (supporting a FTSE CEO commands more than a startup founder), and scope of work. Basic EA support starts at £200-280 per day, while experienced EAs with 15+ years supporting C-suite executives charge £300-400. Some charge hourly (£30-50/hour) for more flexible arrangements. Most work 1-3 days per week per client, with monthly retainers from £800-1,600 being common for 1 day per week.
Remote and Hybrid Options
The fractional EA model has been supercharged by remote working technology. Many fractional EAs work entirely remotely, using tools like Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, Calendly, and Slack to provide seamless support. This enables cost savings (no desk space required) and access to talent regardless of location. Some arrangements are hybrid, with the EA coming on-site for key meetings, events, or intensive work periods. The flexibility of remote work makes fractional arrangements particularly attractive for both EAs and executives.
Cost Comparison
Fractional vs Full-Time Executive
Your Potential Savings
£180k+
Time Allocation
How fractional executives spend their time
UK Fractional Executive Day Rates
Compare day rates across C-suite roles
Fractional vs Interim vs Full-Time
Choose the right engagement model
| Aspect | Fractional | Interim | Full-Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Time Commitment | 1-3 days/week | 4-5 days/week | 5 days/week |
| Duration | Ongoing/flexible | 3-12 months | Permanent |
| Annual Cost | £50-150k | £150-300k | £200-400k+ |
| Best For | SMEs, startups, scale-ups | Crisis, transitions | Large enterprises |
| Flexibility | ★★★ High | ★★☆ Medium | ★☆☆ Low |
Costs are indicative UK market rates. Actual costs vary by role, experience, and sector.
Calculate Your Day Rate
Calculate Your Potential Income
Based on 2.5 days/week x 2 clients x 48 working weeks. CFO UK average day rate: £1000.
BetaThis calculator provides rough estimates for illustration only. Actual rates and salaries vary based on location, experience, industry, and market conditions.
Related Executive Roles
Complementary leadership for your organisation
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know
Fractional EAs typically have 10-20+ years of experience supporting C-suite executives and bring strategic-level skills. Virtual assistants often handle task-based work at lower rates but may lack experience with board dynamics, investor relations, or complex stakeholder management. Fractional EAs are senior professionals; VAs are often more junior administrators.
Industry Resources & Authority Links
Related Pages
The Fractional Executive Trend
Industry data on the rise of fractional leadership
of executives who moved to fractional work report higher job satisfaction
Source: Harvard Business Review ↗Platform Stats
Founder's background
📊 Exec Market Snapshot
💰 Exec Day Rates
Based on 2026 market data for UK Exec roles.
