Fractional Director Services for SMEs

What is a Fractional Director 

Which businesses benefit most from a Fractional Director?

Owner-managed SMEs typically benefit most when:

• The business has reached a scale where informal management is no longer enough
• The owner needs independent challenge and a trusted sounding board
• Governance and accountability at board level need to be strengthened
• The business is preparing for growth, acquisition, investment or exit
• There is tension or misalignment within the leadership team
• The owner wants to step back from day-to-day operations and needs support to do so

FAQs: Fractional Director

What is a Fractional Director?
A Fractional Director is an experienced professional who provides independent board-level guidance to a business on a part-time basis. The role is equivalent to a Non-Executive Director: strategic, advisory and non-operational. They attend board meetings, challenge thinking, support better decision-making and hold the leadership team to account.

Is a Fractional Director the same as a Non-Executive Director?
In the context of owner-managed SMEs, yes. Both terms describe an independent board-level professional providing strategic challenge and accountability on a part-time basis. Secantor's Non-Executive Director service covers this role in full.

How is a Fractional Director different from a Fractional Finance Director?
A Fractional Finance Director is an executive role: they take hands-on responsibility for financial leadership within the business. A Fractional Director is non-executive: they operate at board level in an advisory and oversight capacity, without day-to-day operational responsibility.

How much time does a Fractional Director commit?
Most Fractional Directors work with SMEs for one to two days per month, typically structured around board or management meetings. The commitment can increase during periods of significant change, growth or exit planning.

How much does a Fractional Director cost?
Costs depend on the scope and frequency of involvement. As a guide, Secantor's Fractional Director services typically start from £1,200 + VAT per month. Every engagement is tailored to the needs and stage of the business.

Can a Fractional Director help with exit planning?
Yes. Supporting a business owner through the preparation and execution of a successful exit is one of the most valuable contributions a Fractional Director can make. They bring an objective view, keep the plan on track and help ensure decisions are made with long-term value in mind.

How do I appoint a Fractional Director?
The starting point is a conversation with Secantor. We will take time to understand your business, your objectives and what you need from board-level support. We then match you with the right professional for your sector, stage and culture. There is no obligation and no hard sales process.

Not quite found the answer you need? Contact our team and we will get back to you personally.