Understanding "Fractional"
The term "fractional" in business borrows from the concept of fractional ownership. Just as multiple people might share ownership of an expensive asset—a private jet, yacht, or vacation property—companies can share access to senior executive talent.
A fractional executive works with your company for a fraction of their working week (typically 1-3 days), while potentially serving other companies with the rest of their time. You get the expertise you need, when you need it, without paying for a full-time resource.
How Fractional Works
Regular, consistent engagement with your business
Compared to full-time executive hires
Ongoing relationship, not project-based
What Fractional Roles Exist?
Almost any senior leadership role can be fractional. The most common include:
Fractional CFO
Finance, fundraising, reporting
Fractional CMO
Marketing, brand, growth
Fractional CTO
Technology, engineering, product
Fractional COO
Operations, scaling, efficiency
Fractional CHRO
HR, people, culture
Fractional CRO
Revenue, sales, customer success
Fractional vs Other Models
| Model | Time | Duration | Accountability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fractional | 1-3 days/week | Ongoing (6+ months) | Owns function |
| Interim | 4-5 days/week | Fixed (3-12 months) | Owns function |
| Consultant | Project-based | Project scope | Advises only |
| Full-Time | 5 days/week | Permanent | Owns function |
Why Companies Choose Fractional
Cost Efficiency
Access senior talent at 50-70% of full-time cost. Pay only for time needed.
Experience Level
Often more experienced than affordable full-time hires. 15-25+ years typical.
Flexibility
Scale up or down as needs change. No long-term employment obligations.
Speed
Start in weeks, not months. No lengthy recruitment process.
Who Uses Fractional?
Fractional executives are most commonly used by:
- Startups (Seed to Series B): Need senior expertise but can't afford full C-suite
- Scale-ups: Growing fast and need to professionalize functions
- PE-backed companies: Portfolio companies needing quick capability injection
- SMEs: Established businesses accessing skills typically reserved for larger companies
In Summary: "Fractional" means part-time senior leadership. Executives work 1-3 days/week, providing C-suite expertise at 50-70% less than full-time cost. It's the fastest-growing model in executive hiring.