What is a Fractional COO and How is it Different from a Full-Time COO?

A Chief Operating Officer (COO) is the right hand to the CEO or owner—responsible for turning vision into execution, building systems, managing operations, and driving growth. But not every business is ready (or able) to bring on a full-time executive.

That’s where a Fractional COO comes in.

A Fractional COO provides the same leadership and strategic oversight as a traditional COO—but on a part-time, flexible basis. You get executive-level support without the full-time salary or long-term commitment.

Here’s the key difference:

• Full-Time COO:
  • Embedded in your company every day
  • Ideal for large or enterprise-level businesses
  • High six-figure investment
  • Long-term internal leadership role

• Fractional COO:
  • Works with you part-time or on retainer
  • Ideal for growing small-to-mid-sized businesses
  • Affordable and scalable
  • Focused on building systems, solving problems, and supporting growth

For businesses between $1M–$20M in revenue, a Fractional COO offers the strategic muscle you need—without overextending your payroll. It’s about getting the right support, at the right stage, to move your business forward.