13 Best Sites To Hire A Fractional COO (Full List 2025)

Running a business comes with its fair share of chaos, especially when you are trying to scale. You realize that your business needs a little extra structure but hiring a full-time COO feels like overkill. In situations like these, you need a fractional COO who can step in with the expertise to create order, exactly when your business needs it most.

But finding the right leadership isn’t as simple as a quick Google search. That’s why we have rounded up the 13 best platforms where you can connect with experienced fractional COOs who know how to get things done. We’ll also share strategies to find the perfect candidate for your business.

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13 In-Demand Sites To Hire A Fractional COO

Here are the 13 in-demand sites to hire fractional COO services for your growing business.

1. Genius

Genius provides a tailored solution for hiring fractional COOs, combining a rigorous selection process with access to highly skilled global talent. Through our 12-step vetting system, Genius ensures that each candidate meets high standards in technical expertise, communication, and cultural alignment. 

Candidates for COO roles are identified through on-ground recruitment efforts, including partnerships with local networks and professional communities. Genius emphasizes key traits like dependability, integrity, and problem-solving, which are critical for managing diverse operational challenges.

Additionally, Genius addresses common hiring pain points like timezone misalignment and poor communication by focusing on professionals fluent in English and accustomed to Western business practices. This allows fractional COOs to integrate seamlessly into teams and deliver high-impact results.

• Employees: 25
• Revenue: $1M – $2M
• Year Founded: 2019
• Pricing: One-time fee upon hire, 25% of candidate’s first-year salary
• Time to Hire: 1-2 weeks
• Industry Focus: Sales & Marketing, Technology, Finance
• Core Services: Fractional Executive Placement, Flexible Hiring Solutions, Strategic Growth Support

2. Toptal

Toptal matches businesses with the top 3% of freelance talent, including fractional COOs, through a rigorous screening process that guarantees high-caliber professionals. Known for its efficiency, Toptal provides companies with critical operational expertise in as little as 48 hours to meet the demand for skilled executive support quickly.

Their fast, reliable matching approach minimizes downtime, allowing companies to bring in strategic operational expertise just when it’s needed. 

• Employees: 6,155
• Revenue: $500M – $1B
• Year Founded: 2010
• Pricing: $79 per month
• Time to Hire: 48 hours
• Industry Focus: Software Development, Design, Finance
• Core Services: Fractional COOs, High-Skill Freelance Talent, Fast Hiring

3. Key Performance Integrators

Key Performance Integrators specializes in fractional COO services with a focus on process improvement and strategic growth. Their team works hands-on with businesses to streamline workflows and align operations with long-term objectives.

Partnering with KPI gives companies measurable improvements in productivity and scalability. Their commitment to process optimization and strategic planning positions them as a valuable ally for businesses looking to increase efficiency and drive sustainable growth.

• Employees: 5
• Revenue: $500,000 – $1M
• Year Founded: 2021
• Pricing: Starts at $2,000 per month
• Time to Hire: Typically 1-2 weeks
• Industry Focus: Manufacturing, Services, Small to Medium Enterprises
• Core Services: Fractional COOs, Process Optimization, Strategic Planning

4. InterimExecs

InterimExecs specializes in connecting businesses with elite fractional COOs through their hand-selected RED (Rapid Executive Deployment) Team, a global network of top operational leaders. 

The company has placed over 5,500 executives since starting its operations. Offering tailored solutions, they support companies facing complex challenges like operational turnarounds, scaling, or strategic integrations.

• Employees: 22
• Revenue: $500,000 – $1M
• Year Founded: 2007
• Pricing: Custom-based on scope
• Time to Hire: 2-3 weeks
• Industry Focus: Private Equity, Manufacturing, Family-Owned Businesses, Nonprofits
• Core Services: Fractional COOs, Turnaround Strategy, Interim Leadership

5. The Portfolio Collective

The Portfolio Collective connects businesses with a global network of over 13,000 professionals, including fractional COOs, to provide high-level expertise for flexible or short-term projects. Their approach includes personalized talent matching, contract drafting, and rate advisory to streamline the hiring process for ambitious ventures needing operational leadership.

• Employees: 47
• Revenue: $2.5M – $5M
• Year Founded: 2020
• Pricing: £2,000 upfront, £2,000 after the hire
• Time to Hire: 1-2 weeks
• Industry Focus: Commercial Services, Business, Fractional Services
• Core Services: Networking, Job Matching, Events

6. Catalant

Catalant provides businesses with flexible access to fractional COOs, with a focus on strategic planning, operations, and management. They have completed 825+ projects in interim executive & skilled fractional. Their advanced workflows provide 40%-60% cost savings compared to traditional consulting firms

• Employees: 133
• Revenue: $20M – $50M
• Year Founded: 2013
• Pricing: Starts at $5,000 per project
• Time to Hire: 48 hours
• Industry Focus: Consulting, Strategy, Operations
• Core Services: Fractional COOs, Project-Based Expertise, Operational Strategy

7. Upwork

Upwork connects businesses with a vast global network of over 18 million freelancers, including fractional COOs, available for both short-term and project-based engagements. Upwork works with over 350 enterprise clients, including around 30% of Fortune 100 companies and nearly 50% of Fortune 500 companies.

• Employees: 800
• Revenue: $500M – $1B
• Year Founded: 2015
• Pricing: 3% payment processing fee 
• Time to Hire: 3-5 days
• Industry Focus: Technology, Design, Finance
• Core Services: Freelance Project Management, Flexible Talent Solutions, Development

8. Robert Half

Robert Half is a renowned staffing firm that connects businesses with top fractional COOs across accounting, legal, and administrative fields. With more than 300 staffing locations, they will connect you with recruiter-assessed and AI-matched candidates for short-term and long-term roles. They’ve been providing tailored hiring solutions for over 7 decades, making them a trusted partner in the staffing industry.

• Employees: 29,594
• Revenue: $1B+
• Year Founded: 1948
• Pricing: Starts at $50 per hour
• Time to Hire: 1-2 weeks
• Industry Focus: Accounting, Administrative, Legal
• Core Services: Consulting Solutions, Contract Talent, Permanent Talent

9. FlexJobs

FlexJobs specializes in remote talent and flexible positions, helping companies find skilled fractional COOs experienced in remote operational management and project oversight. Its curated talent pool enables businesses to access professionals who are well-versed in managing and optimizing distributed teams. 

• Employees: 476
• Revenue: $20M – $50M
• Year Founded: 2007
• Pricing: Starts at $99 per month
• Time to Hire: 2-4 weeks
• Industry Focus: Technology, Finance, Project Management
• Core Services: Fractional COOs, Fractional CMOs, Operations Leadership

10. SpenglerFox

SpenglerFox is a boutique executive search firm with a focus on emerging markets, providing leadership solutions for over 1,000 clients globally. They are recognized for their innovative approach to executive search and interim management, particularly in fast-evolving sectors. With offices across 25 countries, they specialize in cross-border leadership placements.

• Employees: 100+
• Revenue: Estimated under $50M
• Year Founded: 2003
• Time to Hire: 2-3 months
• Cost: Project-based pricing
• Industry Focus: Pharmaceuticals, Manufacturing, Consumer Goods
• Core Services Offered: Executive Search, Interim Management, Leadership Consulting

11. New Street Consulting Group

New Street Consulting Group has placed over 1,000 executives across industries like healthcare and government. Their focus is on matching businesses with leadership talent tailored to specific challenges, making them a trusted choice for fractional COOs.

With a collaborative approach, New Street helps companies find fractional COOs who can drive operational improvements and strategic results. Their experience spans both private and public sectors, giving them the expertise to address complex business needs effectively.

• Employees: 160
• Revenue: $10M – $20M
• Year Founded: 2003
• Time to Hire: 2-4 months
• Cost: Lacks pricing transparency
• Industry Focus: Government, Healthcare, Technology
• Core Services Offered: Executive Search, Leadership Consulting, Interim Management

12. GoFractional

GoFractional connects businesses with experienced fractional COOs through a transparent and talent-driven platform. With weekly hours spanning 5 to 35, the platform offers flexibility to match your specific operational needs. Contracts are structured as monthly retainers with a typical minimum commitment of 3 months.

Built by experienced operators, Go Fractional emphasizes quality and direct collaboration. Their strict application process filters top talent, while monthly check-ins keep engagements on track. Businesses also have the option to transition fractional hires into full-time roles for a 15% recruitment fee.

• Employees: 6
• Revenue: $1M – $2.5M
• Year Founded: 2024
• Pricing: 43% markup on hourly rate
• Time to Hire: Within 5-7 days
• Industry Focus: Cross-Industry
• Core Services: Interim Hires, Recruiting Services, Job Matching

13. Globally Hired

Globally Hired helps US businesses connect with top talent for temporary, interim, and permanent roles. From fractional COOs to other professionals, their platform makes it easy to find the right fit to fill skill gaps and tackle operational challenges.

Their transparent pricing includes a flat 43% markup that covers payroll, taxes, and insurance, keeping costs predictable. With a free company profile, you can manage hiring directly on the platform. It’s quick and simple to recruit for remote, hybrid, or on-site roles.

• Employees: 86
• Revenue: $2.5M – $5M
• Year Founded: 2018
• Pricing: Starts at $50 per month
• Time to Hire: 2 weeks
• Industry Focus: IT, Executive Leadership, Finance
• Core Services: On-demand staffing, Interim leadership, Fractional expertise

Fractional COO vs Interim vs Part-Time COO: When To Hire

Let’s look at the differences between a fractional, interim, and part-time COO to help you determine which non-full-time role best fits your unique business operations.

Fractional COO

A fractional COO works part-time across multiple companies, providing high-level operational guidance without a full-time commitment.

Companies hire a fractional COO to access expertise on a flexible schedule. This is often to improve processes, optimize operations, or guide strategic growth, particularly when a full-time position isn’t financially feasible or necessary.

Interim COO

An Interim COO is a temporary, full-time executive brought in to lead a company’s operations during a transitional period.

Interim COOs provide stability, continuity, and strategic oversight when a sudden need arises. They typically fill the role while the company searches for a permanent COO or manages a significant change, like restructuring or a leadership gap. 

Part-Time COO

A Part-Time COO is employed directly by a single company but works fewer hours or days per week than a full-time role. This option is ideal for businesses that require consistent operational management but don’t have the workload or budget for a full-time position. 

In other words, part-time COOs bring continuous, focused support with an adaptable schedule that suits the business’s specific needs.

Here’s a quick overview of the major differences between the three.

Aspect	Fractional COO	Interim COO	Part-Time COO
Commitment	Part-time across multiple companies	Full-time, temporary for one company	Part-time for a single company
Purpose	Strategic guidance without full-time hire	Temporary fill during transitions	Ongoing, regular support
Duration	Long-term, flexible	Short-term, usually during transitions	Long-term or indefinite
Focus	Process improvement, growth strategy	Continuity and stability	Operational consistency
Best for	Small or medium businesses needing expertise	Companies facing major changes or gaps	Companies with limited operational needs

Fractional COO: Job Description, Rates, Contract

To give you a clear understanding of how a fractional COO operates, let’s look at the COO’s role, rate, and contract terms.

Fractional COO Job Description

If your company is looking to define a fractional COO role, here’s what you should include in the job description.

• Role overview. Provide a brief summary of the fractional COO’s purpose and the company’s operational needs.
• Key responsibilities. List the primary duties, like overseeing operations, developing strategy, and improving efficiencies.
• Experience requirements. Specify preferred experience in executive roles, industry knowledge, or previous fractional work.
• Skills and qualifications. Highlight essential skills like leadership, communication, and strategic thinking.
• Time commitment and flexibility. Clarify expected hours per week and specific time zone or availability requirements.
• Performance metrics. Include goals or KPIs the fractional COO will help achieve, like process improvement or revenue growth targets.
• Company culture and values. Describe the organization’s culture to attract candidates aligned with your values.
• Compensation. Outline the pay structure, including hourly rates or project-based fees, and any perks or benefits offered.

Here’s a sample job description you can use for hiring a fractional COO:

Job Title: Fractional Chief Operating Officer (COO) Location: Remote Commitment: Part-Time / 10-15 hours per week Company Overview: [Company Name] is a dynamic, growing company seeking an experienced Fractional COO to optimize our operations and contribute to our strategic goals. Our mission is to [brief mission statement or description of values]. Job Summary: We are looking for a highly skilled Fractional COO who can work with us on a part-time basis to oversee key operational functions, streamline processes, and support our leadership team with strategic guidance. This role is perfect for a results-driven executive with experience in [industry/sector]. Responsibilities: – Develop and implement operational strategies to increase efficiency and scalability – Oversee day-to-day operations and establish workflows to meet organizational goals – Collaborate with leadership to set performance metrics and drive continuous improvement – Ensure company compliance with industry regulations and quality standards – Identify opportunities for cost savings and process improvements Requirements: – 10+ years of experience in operations or a similar executive role – Proven success in strategic planning and process optimization – Strong leadership and communication skills – Ability to work independently and provide high-level insights – Flexible availability for 10-15 hours weekly

Fractional COO Rates

There are several factors you need to consider when determining how much hiring a fractional COO costs.

• Scope of responsibilities. The breadth of tasks the COO will handle—like strategic planning versus day-to-day operations—can impact rates.
• Industry experience. Specialized experience in a specific industry, like healthcare or tech, can increase a COO’s value and rate.
• Company size. Larger companies with complex structures may require a COO with advanced skills, potentially leading to higher rates.
• Location. COOs based in major urban centers, where the cost of living is higher, charge more than those in smaller cities or remote areas.
• Time commitment. Rates vary depending on the number of hours required weekly or monthly, with a higher commitment resulting in lower hourly rates.
• Performance expectations. If specific metrics or revenue growth targets are part of the role, it may justify higher compensation.

Sample Rate Computations

Here’s an overview of average rates based on common hiring circumstances. These examples offer a range based on business size, time commitment, and specific expectations.

1. Small Business/Startup Needing Growth Oversight

• Average Rate: $150 – $250 per hour (Upwork)
• Example: A business needing 15 hours a week could expect to pay $2,250 – $3,750 per week, totaling $9,000 – $15,000 monthly.

2. Mid-Sized Company Seeking Process Optimization

• Average Rate: $100 – $200 per hour (Glassdoor)
• Example: For a COO working 10 hours weekly, the cost would be $1,000 – $2,000 per week, or $4,000 – $8,000 monthly.

3. High-Growth Tech Company Requiring Strategic Leadership

• Average Rate: $200 – $400 per hour (Upwork)
• Example: For a 20-hour-per-week engagement, this equates to $4,000 – $8,000 per week, or approximately $16,000 – $32,000 monthly.

Fractional COO Contract

Creating a solid contract for a fractional COO is crucial to establishing clear expectations and protecting both parties. 

• Position and responsibilities. Outline the role, specific duties, and the scope of responsibilities the fractional COO will cover.
• Engagement term and hours. Specify the contract duration, weekly or monthly hours, and flexibility in schedule.
• Compensation and payment terms. Define the hourly rate or project fee, billing frequency, and any additional payment terms.
• Performance expectations and goals. Include key performance indicators (KPIs) or targets the COO is expected to achieve.
• Confidentiality and intellectual property. Establish guidelines for handling sensitive information and IP rights, including any non-disclosure agreements.
• Termination clause. Outline the terms under which the contract can be ended by either party, including notice period requirements.
• Non-compete and non-solicitation clauses. If applicable, define limitations on working with competitors or hiring away employees post-engagement.
• Indemnification and liability limitations. Specify liability protections and indemnity for work-related risks or issues.

Here’s a sample fractional COO contract template you can use:

[Company Name] Fractional Chief Operating Officer (COO) Agreement Date: [Start Date] 1. Parties This contract is entered between [Company Name], located at [Company Address], and [COO’s Name], referred to as “Fractional COO.” 2. Position and Responsibilities The Fractional COO will perform duties including, but not limited to: [List key responsibilities]. 3. Term and Hours This contract is effective as of the date signed and will remain in effect for a period of [Duration]. The Fractional COO will work approximately [X] hours per week, with flexibility as agreed upon. 4. Compensation and Payment Terms The Fractional COO will be compensated at a rate of $[Hourly Rate] per hour. Payment will be processed [Weekly/Monthly] via [Payment Method]. 5. Performance Goals The Fractional COO agrees to focus on achieving the following objectives: [List KPIs or key targets]. 6. Confidentiality and Intellectual Property The Fractional COO agrees to maintain strict confidentiality regarding all proprietary information and relinquishes any claims to intellectual property developed during the engagement. 7. Termination Clause This contract may be terminated by either party with [Notice Period] notice. Early termination by [Company Name] will result in payment for hours worked up to the termination date. 8. Non-Compete and Non-Solicitation The Fractional COO agrees not to engage with direct competitors or solicit [Company Name] employees for a period of [Duration] following contract termination. 9. Liability and Indemnification The Fractional COO shall not be liable for indirect damages. Both parties agree to indemnify each other against claims arising from the engagement. Signatures [COO’s Name] Date: ____________________ [Company Representative] Date: ____________________

How To Pick The Best Fractional COO Candidate

l Here are 5 key factors you should consider when choosing the right fractional COO.

I. Relevant Industry Experience

The candidate should have a background in your company’s field, which is crucial to understanding the specific challenges, standards, and opportunities within your industry. A fractional COO with industry expertise can quickly offer strategic insights and operational improvements tailored to your business.

To find someone with relevant experience, follow these steps:

• Review their work history. Check for experience in industries or roles similar to your business’s needs.
• Ask for case studies. Request examples of their past work in your industry.
• Connect with references. Speak to past clients to verify relevant accomplishments.

II. Strategic & Operational Expertise

A strong fractional COO should be able to balance long-term vision with practical execution, guiding the company toward its goals while optimizing current processes.

To assess strategic and operational expertise, it’s important to practice the following:

• Assess their skill set. Look for a mix of strategic planning and operational management on their resume.
• Request specific examples. Ask how they’ve balanced strategy and operations in previous roles.
• Evaluate problem-solving ability. During interviews, ask how they’d tackle a current operational challenge your company faces.

III. Adaptability & Flexibility

A strong candidate should know how to work well in various settings and adjust their approach to fit your company’s culture, team dynamics, and changing needs. Since fractional COOs work across different companies, they should be able to switch strategies and adapt seamlessly.

Here’s how you can gauge these:

• Probe for diverse experiences. Look for a range of industries or company sizes in their background.
• Check for flexibility examples. Ask how they’ve adapted to different client needs and environments in past roles.
• Conduct scenario-based interviews. Present hypothetical changes to gauge their response and adaptability.

IV. Strong Communication Skills

Clear communication skills are essential for a fractional COO to effectively convey strategies, updates, and operational plans. They must engage with other executives and teams to ensure alignment across departments and smooth execution of initiatives.

Here’s what you can do to assess communication skills:

• Evaluate written and verbal clarity. Review their emails, reports, and interview responses for concise, clear communication.
• Ask about collaboration. Inquire how they manage cross-functional communication and engage with stakeholders.
• Seek feedback on communication. Contact references specifically to understand the candidate’s communication style and effectiveness.

V. Results-Oriented Mindset

The candidate you pick should be focused on achieving measurable outcomes that directly benefit your business. This is important because a fractional COO should be able to deliver tangible improvements, like cost savings, efficiency gains, or strategic advancements.

Here are ways to identify a results-oriented candidate:

• Set performance metrics. Discuss KPIs during interviews to understand their focus on results.
• Look for quantifiable achievements. Seek examples of their past accomplishments that can be directly measured.
• Request their performance plan. Ask how they’d structure their first 90 days to meet specific goals for your business.

Conclusion

A great fractional COO can do wonders, but only if you choose the right one. The key here is to know exactly what you need. Don’t rush the decision – take the time to explore each option, think about the type of leadership you want, and find the best fit for your company.

Genius simplifies this process. Our platform connects you to the top 1% of fractional COOs, saving you up to 80% on salaries with zero monthly fees. With free interviews and a 6-month talent guarantee, we’re committed to helping you find the perfect fractional COO. Ready to discover your next top-tier hire? Visit Genius today.

FAQs

Are agencies better than international platforms for US companies hiring a Fractional COO?

It depends on your preferences as a business owner. Some agencies focus on local talent, and some like Genius focus on top global talent. Upwork also offers a global talent pool, but they don’t vet their talent which can take extra time and effort on your end.

How can I ensure confidentiality and data security with a Fractional COO?

You can implement confidentiality agreements and set clear guidelines on data access and usage. Establishing secure data-sharing practices is important if you want to protect sensitive information throughout the engagement.

What’s the difference between a Fractional COO and a business consultant?

A fractional COO service is more hands-on as they actively lead processes and projects. In contrast, a consultant provides high-level advice and recommendations without ongoing involvement in day-to-day activities.

What specific challenges can a Fractional COO help resolve?

Fractional COOs can tackle issues like improving operational efficiency, scaling business processes, and reallocating resources effectively. They’re also experienced in handling periods of rapid growth or transitions within a company.