Hire a
Fractional CRO

Typically 2-4 weeks from first conversations to start date. This includes: defining requirements (1-3 days), sourcing candidates (3-7 days), interviews (1-2 weeks), and onboarding (1 week). Much faster than the 3-6 months required for full-time CRO recruitment.

Five main sources: (1) Fractional executive job boards like Fractional.Quest with pre-vetted candidates, (2) LinkedIn using hashtags like #FractionalCRO or #PortfolioCRO, (3) Revenue Collective and sales leadership networks, (4) Referrals from VCs, founders, or investors, (5) Sales conferences and SaaS communities.

Five key criteria: (1) Relevant experience scaling revenue at your stage (seed, Series A, PE-backed), (2) Industry expertise matching your sector (SaaS, B2B, enterprise), (3) Proven track record growing ARR or building sales teams, (4) Strong sales operations and forecasting skills, (5) Cultural fit and ability to work fractionally with your team.

Day rates range from £1,000-£1,500 depending on experience. Most engagements are 2 days per week (£8,000-£12,000/month retainer) or 3 days per week (£100,000-£180,000 annually). This is 40-60% cheaper than full-time CROs who cost £200,000-£350,000+ with benefits and equity.

Start with a 3-month trial period with 30 days notice either side. After the trial, extend to 12-month rolling contracts. Key terms: day rate or monthly retainer, expected days per week, notice period (30 days standard), IP ownership (company owns all work), confidentiality, and scope of responsibilities.

Yes, many companies do this as they scale. Common transition points: closing Series B, hitting £10M+ ARR, or building larger sales teams. Discuss this upfront—most fractional CROs are open to conversion if the timing and equity package make sense.