Frequently Asked Questions

A fractional executive is a long-term, highly experienced, and often specialized professional who is hired by a company on a part-time or project basis to fulfill executive-level roles and responsibilities. Fractional executives, who can exist across all functions (i.e., CMO, CFO, CHRO, COO, etc.) work on a fractional or shared basis typically dividing their time between multiple client organizations. 

A fractional executive is not a consultant, not an advisor, and not an interim person.  This person is often brought in to help fill leadership gaps or leverage external experience in a new phase of the company’s growth.

The primary role of a fractional executive is to provide strategic guidance and leadership expertise to an organization. They work closely with the company's management/leadership team and stakeholders to understand the business's goals, challenges, and opportunities. They bring their industry knowledge, experience, and skills to address specific business needs and drive positive outcomes. Fractional executives may take on various roles such as CEO, COO, CAO, CFO, CMO, CTO, or other executive positions, depending on the specific requirements of the client organization.

Access to top-level expertise: Fractional executives are typically highly experienced professionals with a track record of success in their respective fields. Companies can tap into their specialized knowledge and skills, which might not be available internally.

Cost savings: Hiring a fractional executive is often more cost-effective than bringing in a full-time executive, as companies only pay for the specific services and time required, eliminating the need for a full-time salary, benefits, and other overhead costs.

Flexibility and scalability: Fractional executives offer flexibility regarding engagement duration and scope of work. As the company's needs change, they can adjust the level of engagement accordingly, scaling up or down as required.

Objectivity and fresh perspective: Being external to the organization, fractional executives can provide unbiased insights and perspectives, challenging existing practices and driving innovation.

Faster results: Fractional executives bring a wealth of experience, allowing them to quickly assess business challenges and implement effective solutions, leading to quicker results and ROI.

Mentorship and knowledge transfer: Fractional executives can mentor and develop existing team members, transferring their knowledge and expertise to enhance the capabilities of the organization's internal resources.

Strategic planning and execution: Developing and implementing strategic initiatives to achieve business objectives.

Operational improvement: Identifying areas for operational optimization, process improvement, and efficiency enhancement.

Change management: Assisting organizations in managing and navigating through periods of significant change, such as mergers, acquisitions, or restructuring.

Financial management: Overseeing financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, and analysis.

Marketing and sales leadership: Developing marketing strategies and sales plans and driving revenue growth.

Technology and IT advisory: Guiding technology strategy, digital transformation, and IT infrastructure.

Interim executive roles: Filling temporary leadership positions during transitions or executive vacancies.