What is a Fractional Executive?

The fractional executive model has gained popularity over the last several years, and it is a game-changer for organizations who need the expertise of an experienced executive, but are not ready to invest in a full-time position. Businesses can retain an experienced fractional executive for a fraction of their time but all of their expertise, without the commitment and cost of a full-time hire. It's a strategic move that allows companies to access the skills, expertise, and industry insights of an experienced executive without breaking the bank.

Dr. Heather Hodges serves our clients as a fractional Chief Learning Officer (CLO) and a fractional Chief Organizational Development Officer (CODO).

Fractional CLO Chief Learning Officer

A fractional Chief Learning Officer (CLO) can serve as the head of learning and development within an organization on a part-time or fractional basis or as an advisor. The goal is to drive the learning and development agenda within an organization, ensuring that your employees have the knowledge, skills, and abilities they need to succeed, both now and in the future.

Some of these duties may include:

  • Training and Development:  Oversee the evaluation, design, and implementation of training programs for employees at all levels. This may include onboarding programs for new hires, leadership development training, technical skills training, and compliance training.

  • Learning Management Systems Technology: We evaluate and make recommendations on the implementation of learning management systems (LMS), online courses, virtual classrooms, and other digital learning resources to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of your learning initiatives.

  • Performance Improvement: We work to improve overall organizational performance by identifying areas for improvement and designing learning interventions to address them. This may involve performance consulting, coaching, and mentoring programs.

  • Talent Management: We collaborate with your team to identify and develop talent within the organization. This includes succession planning, career development programs, and talent retention strategies.

  •  Measuring Effectiveness: We help evaluate the effectiveness of your learning programs and initiatives. This may involve collecting and analyzing data on employee performance, learning outcomes, and return on investment (ROI) to ensure that learning initiatives are contributing to the organization's success.

  • Creating a Learning Culture: We help promote a culture of continuous learning and professional development within your organization.

  •  Stakeholder Management: As a fractional CLO, we collaborate with senior leadership, department heads, and other stakeholders to ensure that learning initiatives are aligned with the organization's strategic priorities and business needs.

Fractional CODO Chief Organizational Development Officer

A Fractional Chief Organizational Development Officer (CODO) improves organizational effectiveness and efficiency. They can serve within an organization on a part-time or fractional basis or as an advisor. The goal is to drive organizational change, foster a positive work culture, and help the organization adapt to evolving internal and external challenges.

Some of these duties may include:

  • Organizational Assessment: Lead efforts to assess the current state of your organization, including its structure, culture, processes, and systems. This may involve conducting surveys, interviews, and focus groups to gather data and identify areas for improvement.

  • Strategic Planning: We work with senior leadership to develop and implement strategic plans that align with your organization's goals and objectives. We can facilitate strategic planning sessions, SWOT analyses, and scenario planning exercises to help guide and inform your decision-making.

  • Change Management: We can oversee change management initiatives aimed at helping your organization navigate transitions effectively. This includes communicating change initiatives, addressing resistance, and supporting your employees through periods of change or uncertainty.

  • Leadership Development: We design and implement programs to develop leadership capabilities at all levels of your organization. This may include executive coaching, leadership training workshops, and succession planning.

  • Culture Transformation: We can lead efforts to shape and strengthen the organization's culture to align with its values and strategic objectives. This may involve fostering inclusivity, promoting innovation, and reinforcing desired behaviors.

  • Employee Engagement: Employees are the foundation of your organization and we focus on helping your team create an environment where employees feel motivated, engaged, and valued. This may involve implementing employee engagement surveys, recognition programs, and initiatives to enhance work-life balance.

  • Learning and Development:  While learning and development initiatives are often overseen by a Chief Learning Officer, CODOs may also play a role in shaping the organization's approach to learning and development to support broader organizational development goals. For example, we can conduct the action research to uncover and understand the training gaps and needs within the organization.

  • Performance Improvement: We can identify opportunities for improving organizational performance and effectiveness. This may involve streamlining processes, enhancing collaboration, and implementing performance metrics and dashboards.

  • Stakeholder Management: We work closely with senior leadership, department heads, and other stakeholders to ensure alignment and support for your development initiatives.