Hire a Fractional CTO?

So, you’re thinking about bringing a fractional CTO on board? Great idea, but let’s break it down and see what this really means, and how it fits into the world of tech leadership – my world since the early 2000s.

First things first, “Fractional CTO” can mean a ton of different things to different folks. And that’s totally okay! When you’re looking to hire someone at this level, it’s all about clear, honest communication from the get-go. Let’s set the stage.

A CTO, or Chief Technology Officer, is the tech maestro of a company. They’re the ones calling the shots on tech strategy, making sure everything techy syncs up with the business goals. They lead the tech troops, keep an eye on new tech trends, and drive innovation to boost the company’s operations, products, and services. Their gig is to make technology a star player in the company’s success story. And trust me, after years of doing this in various companies across the globe, I can tell you it’s as exciting as it sounds!

But here’s the deal: if you need someone full-time, a fractional CTO might not be your best bet. Think about what you really need and be super clear about it. Sometimes, a short-term or part-time CTO can do wonders. And who knows? That fractional CTO might just turn into a full-time tech wizard down the line.

Navigating this can be tricky. How much time and attention you’ll need from them isn’t always clear-cut.

Any seasoned CTO, myself included, knows not to underestimate the size of the task at hand.

It’s also key to understand why a CTO would want a fractional role. Maybe they’re after a better work-life balance or itching to dip their toes in different industry waters. This can bring a whole new perspective to your company. But remember, every choice comes with its risks.

Let me tell about the end game too. Every job wraps up at some point. Discussing this upfront might feel a bit odd, but it’s a sign of a mature leader who values openness. It builds trust and respect, which are gold in any business relationship.

A fractional CTO, whether they’re part-time or not, becomes a crucial part of your team. So, how will you introduce this role to your C-suite, your investors, your teams? It’s crucial everyone understands why you’re going down this path. It prevents any hard feelings and shows your team the value they can get from working with a seasoned CTO.

And if you’re a founder, think about what kind of CTO you want. Every company’s journey is unique, so there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Do you want a traditional, big-company CTO or someone who’s been in the startup trenches? Find someone who matches your vibe and can grow with you.

A CTO needs to be in the thick of it with the leadership team. They’ve got to get your vision, jive with the company’s goals, and really get the market you’re playing in. This takes time, and it should. You want a CTO who’s endlessly curious – someone who’s always looking to learn, connect, and make things happen.

So, when you’re looking for your fractional CTO, keep an eye out for their curiosity. It’s a dead giveaway that you’ve found someone who’ll proactively understand your needs, come up with solutions, inspire your team, and hey, make the whole journey a lot more fun.

That’s my two cents on bringing a fractional CTO into your world. It’s a path I’ve walked many times, in many different shoes. If you’re on the hunt for one, or just curious about the whole thing, I’m always here to chat and share what I know. I’m just one message away. Let’s make tech leadership a blast!