fractional vs. interim vs. full-time: which executive type is right for you?
hiring leadership: your guide to executive engagement
Every company's leadership needs are unique. What worked for your startup yesterday might not serve you tomorrow. Understanding the nuanced differences between fractional, interim, and full-time executives can be the key to strategic growth.
the leadership landscape: more than one size fits all
Gone are the days when hiring a full-time executive was the only path forward. Today's dynamic business environment demands flexible, strategic talent solutions that can adapt as quickly as your company evolves.
fractional executives: precision expertise on demand
what are fractional executives?
Fractional executives are high-caliber leaders who work with your company part-time, typically across multiple organizations. They bring deep expertise without the full-time commitment.
Ideal for:
Early-stage startups
Companies needing specialized expertise
Businesses with limited budgets
Project-specific strategic initiatives
Typical Engagement:
10-20 hours per week
Flexible, ongoing relationships
Pay only for the expertise you need
Lowest financial commitment
Best When:
You need strategic guidance
Budget is constrained
Require specific industry expertise
Want to test leadership approach
interim executives: bridging critical gaps
what are interim executives?
Interim executives provide full-time leadership for a defined period, typically during transition, growth, or specific organizational challenges.
Ideal for:
Companies experiencing leadership transitions
Organizations undergoing significant change
Covering unexpected leadership gaps
Driving specific transformation initiatives
Typical Engagement:
Full-time commitment
Short to medium-term (3-12 months)
Immediate, intensive impact
Higher financial investment than fractional
Best When:
You need immediate, full-time leadership
Facing critical business challenges
Require a quick ramp-up
Want to minimize long-term commitment
full-time executives: traditional leadership commitment
what are full-time executives?
Full-time executives provide comprehensive, dedicated leadership as permanent members of your team.
Ideal for:
Established companies
Organizations with stable, predictable growth
Businesses requiring constant, deep organizational involvement
Companies with substantial budgets
Typical Engagement:
40+ hours per week
Long-term commitment
Highest financial investment
Full integration into company culture
Best When:
You have stable, predictable growth
Require consistent, day-to-day leadership
Have secured significant funding
Building a long-term executive team
the solace advantage: flexibility without compromise
Unlike traditional talent platforms, Solace offers:
Seamless transitions between engagement models
Pre-vetted, top-tier executive talent
Transparent, cost-effective solutions
Minimal organizational friction
No search fees or long hiring cycles
your leadership, your choice
We understand that your leadership needs are as unique as your business. Our platform allows you to:
Start fractional and move to full-time
Bring in interim leadership during critical phases
Customize engagement to your exact requirements
making the right choice: key considerations
assess your current stage
Startup (Fractional)
Growth Phase (Interim)
Established Company (Full-Time)
evaluate your specific needs
Budget constraints
Strategic objectives
Time sensitivity
Required expertise level
faqs
How quickly can I switch between engagement models?
Solace's platform is designed for seamless transitions. You can move from fractional to interim, or interim to full-time with minimal friction. Our goal is to provide you with the most flexible talent solution.
Are the executives the same quality across different engagement types?
Yes. Our rigorous vetting process ensures that whether you choose fractional, interim, or full-time, you're getting top-tier executive talent with proven track records.
Can I test an executive before making a long-term commitment?
Absolutely. Our "try before you buy" approach allows you to work with an executive in a fractional or interim capacity before potentially transitioning to a full-time role.
How do pricing models differ?
Fractional: Hourly or monthly retainer
Interim: Daily or monthly rate
Full-Time: Annual salary with potential performance bonuses
What industries do you serve?
We provide executive talent across various sectors, including:
Technology
Healthcare
Finance
Retail
Manufacturing
Professional Services
your next strategic move
Don't let traditional hiring constraints limit your potential. Discover how Solace can transform your leadership strategy with the right talent, at the right time, in the right format.
