Why Be a Fractional Leader?
Like maestros, fractional executives provide a limited yet impactful presence, offering strategic expertise without the full-time commitment. They bring visionary interpretation to organizational and sector challenges, embed themselves locally to foster community-driven initiatives, and empower teams to excel, unlocking their full potential.
FRACTIONAL LEADERSHIP
By Bridget Leigh Snell, Co-Founder FASTx Partners LLC
3/20/20252 min read
What if nonprofit leaders were more like maestros?
With over two decades of experience in the nonprofit sector, I've often pondered why we don't view nonprofits more like orchestras, and their leaders more like orchestra conductors. This unique approach could bring significant benefits to small to medium sized nonprofits.
And, no, I am not thinking about the egomaniacal, dictatorial conductors of yore. Rather, I am thinking about the few dynamic, passionate souls who travel the country or the world to lead, for a fraction of the time, small organizations called orchestras.
⏳ Limited but Impactful Presence. Orchestra conductors may only appear for rehearsals and performances. Fractional executives, like conductors, engage part-time but leave a profound impact.
👁️🗨️ Visionary. Orchestra conductors bring an overall interpretation to how a musical piece is delivered. Similarly, fractional executives bring an interpretation of how we work to multiple organizations, thereby elevating our collective performance.
🏡 Locally led. Fractional executives like orchestra conductors embed themselves in more than one local organization tied to a specific community.
🌱 Empowering. Like orchestra conductors, fractional leaders don't play every instrument or perform every task. Instead, they empower others to excel, bringing out the best in organizations and helping them reach their full potential.
As a fractional CIO, I experienced the potential for this powerful, new approach to leadership. I walked into a technology team in chaos - low trust and limited impact. I introduced a practical model of leadership - what I am now calling the 5 E’s of Fractional Leadership. I helped align a team of 100 technologists to a clear and shared purpose. We communicated complex technology initiatives more simply. We elevated the abilities of both business and IT technologists ensuring lasting capabilities. Within 16 months, the technologists had clarity of purpose, shared action and were prepared to carry forward.
Are you interested in fostering an environment where everyone can thrive, and meaningful results are achieved? Do you have a passion for enhancing the performance of not just one, but multiple local organizations that could benefit from a seasoned, visionary leader?
My colleagues and I at FASTx Partners are working to make fractional leadership work for nonprofits and healthcare. Join us. Come see what we're doing!
📧 info@fastxpartners.com 🔗 LinkedIn 🌐 www.fastxpartners.com