Fractional project managers represent a new model of project leadership—senior PMs who work part-time (typically 2-3 days per week) with one or multiple clients, delivering strategic project oversight without the cost and commitment of full-time hires. This model has grown 56% year-over-year in the UK, supported by research from the Association for Project Management.
Why Fractional Project Management is Booming
UK businesses are increasingly adopting fractional project management arrangements for several compelling reasons. Scale-ups and SMEs gain access to senior PM expertise they cannot afford full-time. Established companies secure specialist capabilities for specific initiatives without permanent headcount. The shift to remote work has eliminated geographical constraints, enabling project managers anywhere in the UK to serve London clients.
"Access senior project management expertise at £1,500-£3,000/week instead of £60,000-£90,000 annually for full-time."
Types of Fractional PM Engagements
- Strategic oversight: Establishing project governance, risk management, and stakeholder alignment (typically 1-2 days/week)
- Delivery leadership: Active project execution management across one or more initiatives (2-3 days/week)
- Transformation programmes: Leading organisational change, digital transformation, or process improvement initiatives
- Project recovery: Rescuing troubled projects, re-establishing control, and getting deliveries back on track
- PMO setup: Establishing project management offices, processes, and capability building
Who Hires Fractional Project Managers?
Technology and SaaS companies represent 42% of fractional PM demand, requiring expertise in Agile delivery, product launches, and technical infrastructure projects. Financial services and fintech account for 28%, seeking project managers who understand regulatory requirements and can navigate compliance-heavy environments. Healthcare organisations increasingly hire fractional PMs for digital transformation and clinical system implementations. Professional services firms engage fractional project managers to deliver client projects or establish internal delivery capabilities.