Full-time execs are out, and fractional leaders are in? In today’s episode, we break down the growing trend of founders building companies like modular tech stacks, swapping in CMOs, Product leads, and other execs *only* when they’re needed.
But here’s the catch: done right, fractional hires can supercharge growth. Done wrong, they can kill momentum before you even hit scale. I’m joined by executive headhunter Miklos Blasko to unpack when fractional actually works, when it backfires, and the hiring mistakes even experienced founders make.
00:00 The Rise of Fractional Work in Gaming and Apps
04:31 Understanding Fractional Work vs. Freelancing
08:56 The Popularity of Fractional Roles
13:51 Company Perspectives on Fractional Hiring
19:28 Talent Perspectives on Fractional Work
26:22 When Fractional Work Doesn't Work
38:19 Key Considerations for Hiring Fractional Talent
41:41 Wartime Leadership vs. Peacetime Leadership
45:17 Ruthless Execution and Stakeholder Management
47:58 Incentive Structures for Fractional Roles
51:54 Charging Models and Engagement Structures
57:44 Common Mistakes in Fractional Roles
65:51 Advice for Founders and Fractional Executives