Fractional HR vs Full-Time HR Director | Comparison Guide 2025
Fractional CHRO

Fractional HR vs Full-Time HR Director | Comparison Guide 2025

Compare fractional HR leadership with full-time HR directors. Costs, benefits, and when to choose each model for your company.

£750
Min Day Rate
£1,300
Max Day Rate
£1,025
Avg Day Rate
£156k
Annual Equivalent

Fractional HR vs Full-Time HR

Choosing between fractional and full-time HR leadership depends on your company stage, budget, and specific needs.

When to Choose Fractional HR

  • Companies with 20-100 employees
  • Specific projects (HRIS implementation, culture change)
  • Budget constraints for full-time executive
  • Need for senior expertise without full-time commitment

Cost Comparison

Fractional CHRO at 2 days/week: ~£80,000/year
Full-time HR Director: £120,000-£180,000+ (including benefits)

Frequently Asked Questions

A Fractional CHRO (Chief Human Resources Officer) is an experienced HR executive who works with companies on a part-time basis. They provide strategic HR leadership, build people operations, develop talent strategies, and create the HR infrastructure needed to scale.
Fractional CHRO day rates in the UK typically range from £600 to £1,100 per day. Rates vary based on company size, complexity of HR challenges, and whether the role includes executive coaching or organisational development.
Companies typically hire Fractional CHROs when scaling rapidly and need to professionalise HR, preparing for significant hiring phases, building company culture during growth, implementing performance management systems, or navigating complex people challenges like restructuring.

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