The fractional executive platform for UK startups
AI-matched C-suite, EA, and operational talent — fractional, interim, or retained. From brief to matched candidate in 48 hours.
Find fractional roles across every leadership function
C-suite, EA, and operational roles — browse and apply
Fractional CFO
Strategic finance leadership
£800–£1,500/day
Fractional CTO
Technology and engineering leadership
£900–£1,600/day
Fractional CMO
Marketing and growth leadership
£700–£1,400/day
Fractional FD
Finance director for UK SMEs
£600–£1,100/day
Fractional COO
Operations and delivery leadership
£800–£1,400/day
Fractional EA
Executive assistant for founders
£200–£400/day
Fractional Ops Assistant
Process and systems support
£150–£300/day
All C-Suite Roles
CISO, CPO, CHRO, CDO and more
View all
From brief to matched in 48 hours
No lengthy intake forms. No waiting weeks for a shortlist.
Submit a brief
Tell us the role, scope, and timeline. Takes two minutes.
AI-matched candidates
Our platform surfaces vetted executives matched by skills graph — not keyword search.
Start in days
Meet your shortlist, choose your person, begin the engagement. Fractional contracts, no lock-in.
Why fractional beats traditional hiring
For startups and growth companies, the maths is clear.
| Fractional.quest | Traditional agency | Full-time hire | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Time to placement | 48 hours | 3–6 months | 3–6 months |
| Cost | Day rate only | 25–30% of salary | Full salary + NI + benefits |
| Commitment | Flexible | Permanent | Permanent |
| Notice period | 1 month | 3–6 months | 3–6 months |
| AI matching | Yes | No | N/A |
| Startup experience | Selectable | Variable | Variable |
Costs are indicative UK market benchmarks. Sources: FD Capital, Robert Walters, AESC.
Built on data, not guesswork
Flexible Working Report 2025
1.1 million UK workers left jobs due to lack of flexible working
View source →Fractional Work in 2025
Global fractional executive market reached £5.7bn, growing at 14% annually
View source →Frequently Asked Questions
What are fractional executive jobs?
Fractional executive jobs are part-time senior leadership roles where experienced professionals serve as CFO, CTO, CMO, or other C-suite positions for 1-3 days per week. These fractional roles allow executives to work with multiple companies simultaneously while providing businesses with senior expertise without full-time costs.
How much do fractional executives cost in the UK?
Fractional executives typically charge £800-£1,800 per day depending on role and experience. Fractional CFOs average £1,200-£1,800/day, fractional CTOs £1,000-£1,600/day, and fractional CMOs £900-£1,400/day. This represents 40-60% savings versus hiring full-time executives with similar experience.
Which companies hire fractional executives?
Companies that hire fractional executives include scale-ups (Series A-C), SMEs with £5-50M revenue, private equity portfolio companies, family businesses, and organisations in transition. They seek fractional talent for growth phases, turnarounds, interim coverage, or specific projects requiring senior expertise.
How do fractional recruitment agencies charge?
Our fractional recruitment agency charges 10-15% of estimated annual billings, significantly lower than traditional executive search firms charging 25-30%. For a fractional CFO working 2 days/week at £1,500/day, our fee would be approximately £7,800-£11,700 versus £19,500-£29,250 at traditional agencies.
What's the difference between fractional and interim executives?
Fractional executives work part-time (1-3 days/week) on an ongoing basis with multiple clients. Interim executives work full-time for 3-12 months covering specific situations like maternity leave or transitions. Fractional suits ongoing strategic needs; interim suits temporary full-time coverage.
Can I work fractionally without C-suite experience?
While most fractional roles require senior experience, emerging fractional opportunities exist for VP-level professionals and senior specialists. Directors with 10+ years experience in finance, marketing, or technology can find fractional opportunities through our fractional recruitment agency.
How competitive are fractional executive roles?
Fractional executive roles are moderately competitive with 5-10 qualified candidates per position versus 50+ for traditional roles. Success requires demonstrable C-suite or VP experience, sector expertise, and flexibility. Our fractional recruitment agency helps candidates differentiate themselves.
Are fractional roles remote or location-based?
Most fractional executive jobs offer hybrid arrangements—remote work with monthly/quarterly on-site presence. London-based roles may require weekly presence, while regional roles often need monthly visits. International fractional roles are typically 90% remote.
Featured Opportunity
Our first proprietary placement — urgent requirement, immediate start
Remote Executive Assistant for AI Startup
100% Remote - Work from anywhere in the UK. Support pioneering AI startup founders in building the future of technology. Flexible 2-3 days per week, immediate start available.
Key Responsibilities
- • Remote executive support to AI founders
- • Virtual board meetings and investor calls
- • Digital workflow optimization
- • Asynchronous collaboration management
What We're Looking For
- • 4+ years remote EA experience
- • Tech/AI startup background
- • Self-motivated & organized
- • UK-based with home office