What is a Fractional Executive?
Part-time C-suite leadership for growing businesses
Fractional Executive Defined
A fractional executive is an experienced C-suite leader who works with multiple companies on a part-time basis rather than full-time with a single organization. The term fractional refers to the portion of their time devoted to each client — typically 1-3 days per week. This model gives companies access to senior leadership expertise without the cost, commitment, and overhead of a full-time executive hire.
How Fractional Executives Work
Time Commitment
Typically 1-3 days per week per client. Most fractional executives work with 2-4 clients simultaneously.
Engagement Length
6-12 months minimum is common, though some relationships extend for years. Project-based work may be shorter.
Working Arrangement
Usually hybrid: some on-site presence combined with remote work. The exact split depends on role and company needs.
Pricing Model
Day rates (£700-£1,500) or monthly retainers. Some include equity for early-stage companies.
Common Fractional Roles
Financial strategy, fundraising, investor relations, finance team leadership.
Technology strategy, engineering leadership, architecture decisions.
Marketing strategy, brand, demand generation, marketing team leadership.
Operations strategy, process optimization, scaling infrastructure.
People strategy, talent acquisition, culture, HR leadership.
Security strategy, compliance, risk management, security team leadership.
Benefits of Fractional Executives
For Companies
Cost Efficiency
Access C-suite expertise at 25-50% of full-time cost.
Flexibility
Scale leadership up or down as needs change.
Speed
Fractional executives can start within weeks, not months.
Expertise
Gain cross-company experience and best practices.
For Executives
Portfolio Career
Work with multiple interesting companies simultaneously.
Flexibility
Control your schedule and workload.
Variety
Solve different problems across different contexts.
Earning Potential
Top fractional executives earn £250,000-£500,000+.
Fractional vs Other Options
| Aspect | cost | option | best_for | commitment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| £50k-£150k/year | Fractional Executive | Strategic leadership, team building | 1-3 days/week ongoing | |
| Varies by project | Consultant | Specific problems, analysis | Project-based | |
| £150k-£300k/year | Interim Executive | Crisis, transition periods | Full-time, temporary | |
| £150k-£350k+/year | Full-Time Hire | Mature organizations needing daily leadership | Permanent |
Frequently Asked Questions
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