We use a fractional CFO and a fractional CMO to keep our overhead low as we scale. How do we represent these part time, external resources on our Accountability Chart, and can they run their respective departments' Level 10 Meetings?

Question

Tyler Smith · Accepted Answer

Fractional resources belong on your Accountability Chart just like full time employees. Accountability is defined by the responsibilities of the seat, not by the number of hours someone works. If you have a fractional CFO or a fractional CMO, they must occupy those respective seats on your chart.

Each fractional seat must have its five major roles clearly defined. For example, your fractional CFO seat might own financial forecasting, cash flow management, and exit preparation support. The person in this seat must fully GWC their roles, even if they only work ten hours a week.

Yes, your fractional leaders can and should run their departments' weekly Level 10 Meetings. They are accountable for the performance of their seats and the metrics on their Scorecards. If they cannot run these meetings or hold their direct reports accountable, they do not get or want the seat.

Do not make the mistake of creating a separate, dotted line box for external consultants. This dilutes accountability and confuses your team. If someone is responsible for a core business function, they must sit in a standard seat on your Accountability Chart and be held to the same standards as everyone else.