Question 1

Can a fractional CEO also do the COO work?

Accepted Answer

Not sustainably. The two seats have different jobs. A fractional CEO on two days a week cannot also own operations end to end. If the company needs both, hire both, or accept that operations lag until the fractional CEO can hire a COO.

Question 2

Is a COO cheaper than a fractional CEO?

Accepted Answer

It depends on time model. A fractional CEO on two days a week is usually cheaper than a full time senior COO. A full time COO is more expensive but covers operations end to end, which a fractional CEO cannot.

Question 3

Should we hire a fractional COO instead?

Accepted Answer

For smaller companies, yes, a fractional COO can be the right first step. Once the company is large enough that operations need daily ownership, convert to full time.