How Much Does a Fractional Executive Cost?
Most fractional executives charge between CHF 5,000 and CHF 20,000 per month, depending on the scope, seniority, and time commitment. Some charge by the day or hour, but most use a flat monthly retainer based on 1–4 days of work per week.
The range may seem wide—but so is the impact. And understanding the cost means understanding the value modelbehind it.
So let’s break it down.
Fractional is not “cheap”—it’s efficient
A great fractional executive won’t be inexpensive. But they’ll often cost far less than a full-time hire, especially when you factor in:
- Base salary
- Social security and benefits
- Bonuses and equity
- Recruitment costs
- Long-term commitments
A full-time CMO in Switzerland, for example, might cost CHF 220–300k per year (plus equity). A fractional CMO at 2 days/week might cost CHF 8–12k/month, fully loaded, and start next week.
You’re buying focus, experience, and velocity, not just hours.
3 common pricing models
1. Monthly retainer (most common)
You agree on a fixed number of days or hours per week, and pay a flat monthly fee. This gives you stability and access—without micromanaging time.
Example: CHF 9,600/month for 2 days/week
(This assumes CHF 1,200/day or CHF 150/hour for ~16 hrs/week)
2. Day rate or hourly rate
Used for short projects or advisory work. Less efficient if you need consistent leadership.
Example: CHF 1,200–2,000/day depending on seniority
Hourly rates can range CHF 150–300/hour for experienced execs
3. Hybrid: Retainer + Success Fee
Popular for growth roles (CMO, CRO) or turnaround work. You pay a base retainer + bonus based on revenue or outcome KPIs.
Example:
- CHF 6,000/month base
- +10% of net new revenue above target
- +Optional project add-ons (e.g. CHF 2,500 for a launch sprint)
This model aligns incentives—but only works if the KPIs are crystal clear.
What impacts the price?
- Seniority & reputationTop-tier execs with board-level experience or multiple exits often command premium rates. You’re not just paying for time—you’re paying for judgment.
- Time commitmentOne day a week costs less than four. But don’t assume that “half the time = half the cost”—there’s always ramp-up, context-switching, and overhead.
- Scope of ownershipLeading a 2-person team is different than managing 12 direct reports. Prices reflect the complexity and breadth of responsibility.
- Industry & geographyRates vary: Swiss market vs. Berlin startup vs. U.S. VC-backed scale-up. Expectations shift with region and funding stage.
What do I charge?
Most of my work falls into two buckets:
- CHF 6,500–12,000/month retainer(1–3 days/week, fixed or flexible)
- Optional performance fee for growth roles(e.g. % of net new revenue)
I also offer structured sprints (like a Revenue Engine Reset) starting at CHF 2,500.
And yes—I’m happy to tailor pricing if the scope is right.
But is it worth it?
That depends on the value created.
Ask yourself:
- Will this person unlock revenue, process, or clarity I can’t reach today?
- Will their leadership save me a bad hire, months of delay, or internal chaos?
- Will I feel more confident about where the company is going?
If the answer is yes, the cost isn’t just justified—it’s leveraged.
Final thoughts
Fractional executives aren’t a bargain version of a full-time leader. We’re a right-size solution for companies who need outcomes, fast.
You’re not paying for hours. You’re paying to stop guessing—and start moving.
If you’re unsure how to scope a fractional role or price it correctly, let’s talk.
Written by Remco Livain
Fractional CMO & Growth Leader | Available Worldwide