Fractional Recruitment Options
There are several ways to find fractional executive talent, each with pros and cons:
Specialist Recruiters
Firms that specialize in fractional and interim executive recruitment.
- + Deep candidate networks
- + Market expertise
- + Validation and vetting
- - 15-25% fees
Fractional Platforms
Marketplaces connecting companies with vetted fractional executives.
- + Quick access to talent
- + Pre-vetted candidates
- + Platform support
- - Variable quality
Executive Networks
Membership communities of portfolio executives and fractional leaders.
- + High-quality peers
- + Community vetting
- + Referral-based
- - Membership required
Direct/Network
Finding candidates through your own network, LinkedIn, referrals.
- + No fees
- + Known quantities
- + Fast process
- - Limited reach
UK Fractional Recruitment Firms
Several recruitment firms specialize in fractional and interim executive placement:
Types of Firms
Boutique Fractional Specialists
Firms focusing specifically on fractional executive placement. Deep expertise in part-time engagement models, day rates, and the fractional market.
Interim Management Firms
Traditional interim firms increasingly offer fractional services. Strong networks but may favor full-time interim over part-time fractional.
Executive Search with Fractional Practice
Large search firms (Odgers, Russell Reynolds) developing fractional capabilities. Good for senior roles but may lack fractional market depth.
Fractional Platforms
Technology platforms have emerged to connect businesses with fractional executives:
The Portfolio Collective
UK-focused community and platform for portfolio professionals. Members are vetted, and companies can access talent through the network.
Graphite
Platform connecting companies with fractional executives, particularly strong in finance and operations roles.
Chief (for women)
Network for senior women executives, many of whom offer fractional services. Strong community and peer support.
Not a platform per se, but searching "fractional [role]" yields many candidates. Look for those with multiple concurrent positions.
Recruiter Fees & Models
| Model | Typical Fee | How It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Contingent | 15-20% of year 1 | Pay only on successful placement |
| Retained | 20-25% of year 1 | Upfront commitment, dedicated search |
| Platform % | 10-20% ongoing | Percentage of ongoing fees |
| Subscription | Fixed annual fee | Access to talent pool |
When to Use a Recruiter
Use a Recruiter When:
- You need help defining the role
- Your network doesn't have the expertise
- You want market validation on candidates
- You're hiring multiple fractional roles
- Speed is critical
Skip Recruiter When:
- You have strong referrals
- Budget is very tight
- The role is clearly defined
- You have time to search yourself
- Your network has relevant candidates
Summary: Fractional recruitment can be done through specialist recruiters (15-25% fees), platforms, networks, or direct sourcing. Choose based on your budget, time, and network reach. Many successful hires come through referrals.