Comparison
Fractional COO vs Full-Time COO
By Cole Kline, Founder, Edge Operations Managers
Fractional COO or full-time COO: which should I hire? Hire a fractional COO when you need senior strategic input part time for a defined goal. Hire a full-time COO when operations need an executive every day. Owner-led businesses between those two often need a full-time operator before a C-suite title: someone who runs the team, the numbers and the weekly rhythm.
A third option
You set the vision, your OM runs the day-to-day. Edge places a full-time operations manager, your second in command, who installs EdgeOS over 18 weeks.
How they compare
| Fractional COO | Full-time COO | Edge Operations Manager | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Time | Typically part time, often shared across several companies | Full-time, in one company | Full-time on your team |
| Role | Often strategic: priorities, planning, coaching leaders | Executive who typically owns all of operations | Second in command who runs the day-to-day and installs EdgeOS over 18 weeks |
| Cost structure | Often a recurring fee for a set amount of advisory time | Typically an executive salary plus benefits | A full-time team member placed by Edge; details on the call |
| Hiring effort | Often quick to engage | Typically a longer executive search | Edge recruits, trains and places the Operations Manager |
| Best fit | Owners who want senior strategic input for a defined goal | Larger companies that need an executive every day | Owner-led businesses with 10 to 50 people that need a full-time operator |
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a fractional and a full-time COO?
A fractional COO works part time, on a retainer or project, often for several companies. A full-time COO is a permanent executive dedicated to one company every day.
When does a fractional COO make sense?
When the need is strategic and time-bound, such as designing the operating model, a restructure or a specific growth project, and the team can carry the daily work.
When does a full-time COO make sense?
When operations are a daily, all-day job: many functions or locations, a management layer that needs leading, or investors who expect a permanent executive.
Is there an option between fractional and full-time COO?
Yes. A full-time operations manager or second in command runs day-to-day operations without a C-suite search. That is the seat Edge places in owner-led businesses doing $1M to $10M.
Does an operations manager replace a COO later?
Not necessarily. Owner-led businesses often run well with a strong operations manager. If the business later needs a COO, the documented system the operations manager runs makes that hire easier.
How long does Edge take to install its system?
18 weeks. The Edge Operations Manager installs EdgeOS, then keeps running it.
Ready to hand off the operations?
Talk with us about placing a full-time Operations Manager who installs EdgeOS inside your existing tools.
Book a call