Question 1

What is a Fractional CIO?

Accepted Answer

A seasoned technology executive who provides part-time or project-based leadership. They align IT to business goals, oversee security and compliance, drive modernization, optimize vendor spend, and establish governance without the cost/commitment of a full-time hire.

Question 2

How is a fractional CIO different from a vCIO?

Accepted Answer

A vCIO is often advisory with narrow scope (sometimes tied to an MSP). A fractional CIO operates as an accountable executive: sets strategy and roadmap, leads initiatives (ERP/cloud/security), defines KPIs, and reports to the CEO/board.

Question 3

How quickly can you start?

Accepted Answer

In days, not months. We define a short SoW, prioritize outcomes, and begin operating rhythms immediately so progress is visible within the first two weeks.

Question 4

How are scope, KPIs, and cadence defined?

Accepted Answer

We co-define a crisp outcome statement, a 30/60/90 plan, and a KPI set spanning operations, risk, delivery, and financial transparency. Weekly/bi-weekly reviews keep momentum and alignment.

Question 5

What typical initiatives does a fractional CIO lead?

Accepted Answer

Cybersecurity posture and compliance readiness, vendor/risk governance, cloud/architecture modernization, ERP selection/implementation, data & AI enablement, cost optimization, and IT org/right-sizing.

Question 6

Is fractional CIO a fit for mid-market companies?

Accepted Answer

Yes—especially where an IT manager/director exists but there's no executive voice at the table. A fractional CIO provides board-level clarity, maturity, and measurable ROI without full-time overhead.

Question 7

How are contracts structured?

Accepted Answer

Flexible, low-risk retainers or project SoWs with clear deliverables and the ability to scale up/down. No employer-employee complexity—just outcomes and transparency.