Why Portfolio Careers Are Growing
Portfolio careers have grown significantly, especially at senior levels. The CIPD reports that flexible working is now expected rather than exceptional. Several factors drive this trend:
For Professionals
- Desire for variety and challenge
- Work-life balance and flexibility
- Autonomy and control
- Higher earning potential
- Continuous learning
For Companies
- Access senior talent affordably
- Flexibility to scale up/down
- Fresh external perspectives
- Reduced hiring risk
- Cross-industry experience
Building Blocks of a Portfolio Career
Fractional Executive Roles
Part-time leadership positions (CFO, CMO, CTO, etc.) working 1-3 days/week per client. The core income source for most portfolio executives.
Board Positions
Non-executive director (NED) roles providing governance and oversight. Typically 1-2 days/month, fees of £20,000-£50,000+ per board.
Advisory Roles
Strategic advice to founders and CEOs. Light touch (few hours/month), often compensated with equity or small retainers.
Consulting Projects
Time-bounded engagements for specific deliverables. Higher day rates, useful for filling gaps between ongoing roles.
Other Activities
Investing, mentoring, speaking, writing, teaching—activities that build profile and sometimes generate income.
Transitioning to Portfolio
Moving from full-time employment to a portfolio career requires planning. Here's a typical 12-24 month transition:
Transition Timeline
Is Portfolio Right for You?
Good Fit If...
- 15+ years experience at senior level
- Strong professional network
- Comfortable with ambiguity
- Self-motivated and disciplined
- Value variety over stability
- Have financial runway
Not Ideal If...
- Need income certainty
- Prefer deep organizational ties
- Uncomfortable selling yourself
- Limited professional network
- Prefer structured environments
- High fixed financial commitments
Portfolio Career Earnings
Summary: A portfolio career combines multiple roles—fractional, boards, advisory, consulting—into a flexible, varied career. Transition takes 12-24 months; earnings of £150,000-£400,000+ are achievable.