D11 Fractional Data Leadership - A Smarter Way to Build Capability Fast

In this episode of unDUBBED, Sarah Burnett and Fi Gordon explore the growing trend of fractional consulting, particularly in the data space. They discuss the challenges of traditional hiring models in the fast-paced business environment, the unique benefits of fractional leadership, and what makes a great fractional consultant. The conversation emphasizes the importance of delivering outcomes, building trust, and the strategic advantages of leveraging fractional consultants to navigate organizational change and drive results without the overhead of full-time hires. Takeaways • Fractional consulting is a response to the fast pace of change in organizations.• Hiring full-time data leaders can be expensive and risky.• Fractional consultants provide leadership without long-term commitment. • The focus of fractional consulting is on delivering specific outcomes. • Building trust quickly is essential for fractional consultants. • Organizations need to understand that fractional consultants are there to enable, not replace.• Effective fractional consultants bring experience and frameworks to the table.• The fractional model allows for agility in scaling teams up or down. • Clear communication and alignment with executives are crucial for success. • Fractional consulting can be a cost-effective way to test strategies before full implementation. Links Check out our Fractional Leadership Blog here  Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Fractional Consulting 02:24 The Shift in Hiring Practices 04:58 Understanding Fractional Consulting 06:36 Defining the Role of Fractional Consultants 08:39 The Global Shift Towards Fractional Leadership 11:06 Qualities of a Great Fractional Consultant 13:03 The Difference Between Fractional and Traditional Consulting 14:39 Leveraging the Fractional Model 16:50 Balancing Fractional Leadership with Business Needs 18:29 Red Flags in Fractional Consulting 19:24 Building Trust as a Fractional Consultant 21:34 Unique Aspects of Fractional Consulting 25:13 When Not to Go Fractional 26:16 Deciding Between Fractional and Full-Time Consulting 27:52 Getting Started with Fractional Consulting