What is a Fractional CIO?
A Fractional CIO (Chief Information Officer) is a technology leader who works with businesses on a part-time or project basis, providing the expertise and strategic direction of a full-time CIO without the associated costs or long-term commitment.
What will a Fractional CIO bring?
Fractional CIOs and CTOs bring a wealth of experience, often gained from working in senior technology roles across various industries. They help companies align their technology strategy with business goals, manage technical teams, oversee software development, and implement innovative solutions to drive growth. By offering their services flexibly, Fractional executives allow organisations to benefit from high-level technical leadership on a budget that matches their needs.
This model is particularly well-suited for startups, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), or organisations undergoing transformation that may not require—or cannot yet afford—a full-time technology executive.
When Does a Business Need a Fractional CIO?
Businesses often turn to a Fractional CIO during pivotal moments, such as launching a new product, scaling operations, or addressing complex technical challenges. For startups, a Fractional CIO can help design and execute a scalable technology roadmap and business processes, ensuring the foundation is built for long-term success. Established companies might bring one on board to modernise legacy systems, improve cybersecurity, or guide digital transformation efforts.
By working collaboratively with teams and stakeholders, Fractional CIOs ensure technology decisions are made strategically, balancing innovation with practicality. Their input can help avoid costly missteps, such as overinvesting in the wrong tools or neglecting critical infrastructure upgrades.
The Benefits of a Fractional CIO
One of the key advantages of hiring a Fractional CIO is accessibility. Businesses gain access to top-tier expertise without the financial commitment of a full-time hire. Fractional CIOs can scale their involvement based on a company’s immediate needs, whether that’s a few hours a week or more intensive support during critical projects.
Additionally, these professionals bring an objective perspective, helping to identify opportunities or risks that might not be immediately apparent to an internal team. Their ability to adapt quickly to different industries and challenges makes them an invaluable resource for businesses navigating the fast-changing landscape of technology.
In short, a Fractional CIO provides the leadership needed to harness the power of technology for growth, without overstretching your budget or resources.
When you need CTO capabilities
Whilst my primary role is ensuring technology serves your business (CIO), I can switch to CTO mode when you need to:
Design and implement new digital services
Undergo major digital transformation
Build custom solutions where nothing suitable exists
Modernise legacy systems
Implement emerging technologies like AI
This dual capability means you don't need to find and manage another specialist when innovation is required – I can seamlessly shift between strategic oversight and hands-on transformation.
Examples of How a Fractional CIO or CTO Could Help Your Business
Building a Scalable Technology Roadmap
A startup with limited resources might struggle to prioritise technology investments. A Fractional CTO can develop a roadmap that aligns with the business’s growth plans, ensuring scalable architecture, efficient resource allocation, and a focus on technologies that provide the best return on investment.
Technical Due Diligence for Investment Rounds
When seeking funding, a company may need to demonstrate the scalability, security, and viability of its technology stack. A Fractional CTO can conduct a technical audit, prepare documentation for investors, and even join pitch meetings to provide credibility and reassurance.
Managing Software Development Projects
For businesses launching new apps, websites, or digital platforms, a Fractional CTO can oversee development teams, set up agile processes, and ensure the product is delivered on time and within budget. They also help bridge the gap between technical teams and non-technical stakeholders.
Modernising Legacy Systems
A mid-sized company reliant on outdated technology might face inefficiencies and increased risks. A Fractional CTO can design a transition plan to modern, cloud-based solutions, ensuring minimal disruption while future-proofing the business.
Improving Cybersecurity
Cyberattacks are a growing threat to businesses of all sizes. A Fractional CTO can assess existing systems, identify vulnerabilities, and implement measures like improved access controls, data encryption, and regular security testing to safeguard the organisation.
Guiding Digital Transformation
An established business entering the digital age may need to adopt new technologies, such as artificial intelligence, automation, or customer relationship management (CRM) tools. A Fractional CTO can guide the transition, ensuring a smooth integration with existing processes.
Interim Leadership During Transitions
If a full-time CTO has left or the company is in the process of hiring one, a Fractional CTO can fill the gap, providing stability and maintaining momentum on critical projects while the business searches for a permanent replacement.
Vendor and Tool Selection
Choosing the right software, hardware, or service providers can be daunting. A Fractional CTO brings expertise in evaluating vendors, negotiating contracts, and ensuring tools are aligned with the business’s goals and budget.
Mentoring Technical Teams
A company may have skilled developers but lack strategic direction or leadership. A Fractional CTO can mentor in-house teams, helping them adopt best practices, improve collaboration, and grow into leadership roles.
Expanding into New Markets
For a company expanding its operations, such as launching in a new country, a Fractional CTO can address challenges like ensuring compliance with local regulations, adapting systems for new languages or currencies, and scaling infrastructure to meet increased demand.
FAQs
-
Simply put, a CIO ensures technology serves your business goals, whilst a CTO builds technology products. Most organisations need CIO services (managing systems, suppliers, and strategy) with occasional CTO input for transformation projects. I provide both, but typically 80% of my work is CIO-focused.
-
Consultants typically deliver specific projects and leave. As your Fractional CIO, I become part of your leadership team, providing ongoing strategic oversight and accountability. I'm invested in your long-term success, not just delivering a report.
-
Most clients need 2-4 days per month for ongoing CIO services, with additional time during major projects or transformations. We can scale up or down as needed.
-
No – I complement and elevate your existing team. Your IT manager focuses on day-to-day operations whilst I provide strategic direction, vendor management, and board-level leadership. It's about making your current team more effective.
-
Yes, though I believe in regular face-to-face interaction, especially initially. I'm based near Cambridge and typically combine remote work with on-site visits as needed.
-
Typically organisations with 5-150 employees, or charities. Large enough to need strategic technology leadership, but not requiring a full-time CIO.
Taking the tech out of technology.
Hi, my name is Giles Thurston, an experienced software, technology and business leader, with nearly 30 years experience across a wide range of industries and sectors.
In a world where technology often feels overwhelming, I’m here to make it simpler. I provide part-time CTO (Chief Technology Officer) services that strip away the jargon, focus on what really matters, and empower your business to thrive.
With a foundation built on openness, honesty, and collaboration, I work as an extension of your team—not just a consultant but a partner in your success. Whether you’re navigating digital transformation, scaling operations, or aligning your tech with your business goals, I’ll help you cut through the noise and make clear, confident decisions.
