On-Demand Experts: The Rise of Fractional Talent
We live in an on-demand economy, with companies like Netflix, Airbnb, Uber, Spotify, and Just Eat leading the charge, and it’s a mindset that’s finding its way into the corporate world.
The fractional movement is becoming a big deal. Companies and execs are cottoning on to the power of part-time, the flexibility of being able to scale up or down requirements, and access to high-level expertise, without the long-term commitment, and at a fraction of the cost.
The changing landscape
Fractional working is changing the way SME business owners scale their companies and build their teams. In our case at Wainwright Consulting, growing businesses approach us at a point where size and complexity start to creep into their business - they are not ready for a full-time FD, however, they’re crying out for the commercial knowledge and strategic guidance that a senior finance professional can bring. The added bonus is an experienced fractional FD can hit the ground running, being able to quickly assess challenges and swiftly implement solutions, they also bring with them a wealth of diverse experience, offering cross-industry insights.
It’s not only business owners that are realising the benefits, the job market is reflecting this trend with the Office for National Statistics reporting that self-employed workers in the UK climbed back to 4.25 million in 2024, and of those highly skilled freelancers are estimated to provide approximately £126 billion to the UK economy (IPSE) - those numbers are certainly adding up for senior professionals.
It’s a win-win situation
Fractional work is keeping up with the pace of a rapidly changing and dynamic workforce. Post-pandemic the desire for a rewarding career, whilst also enjoying more freedom to do the things you love, means executives are seeking ways to choose their own schedules and be in control of their workload (saying goodbye to the long draining hours and demands of the corporate world). In turn, working on your own terms gives the ability to partner with clients that align with your values, interests, and expertise - which is a win-win for both the professional and the business.
Is this a trend that is here to stay?
We’d say so.
Business owners being able to access the skills that would have once alluded them, meaning sustainable, accelerated growth, with the peace of mind that they’re in safe hands, and executives working in an impactful, rewarding way that broadens their professional horizons, whilst also being able to prioritise their wellbeing.
Fractional leadership is not just a trend - it’s the future of work.