The 'fractional executive' and some HR developments

At the recent birthday bash of “super woman” Rosemarie “UT” Rafael, chair of Women’s Business Council, I asked Nora Terrado, founder and former chief country executive of Carelon Global Solutions Philippines, what's keeping her busy nowadays.

- FLOR G. TARRIELA

She said, “I now serve as a fractional executive for select for-profit and non-profit organizations aligned with my passion and strengths, ensuring no conflict with my board and advisory roles. Being ‘in the trenches’ keeps me engaged with industry trends and emerging challenges while broadening my perspective across sectors, operational models, and problem-solving approaches. This model satisfies my thirst for learning while maintaining professional autonomy.”

What is a fractional executive? Nora explained that a fractional executive is an experienced professional who provides leadership and expertise to organizations on a part-time or project basis instead of full time. It is a model that works well for start-ups and growing businesses that need strategic leadership but can’t afford or don’t need full-time C-suite roles.

She explained that fractional executives offer targeted expertise in areas such as scaling operations, navigating financial complexities, and driving digital transformation or mission-critical change initiatives. Enabled by technology, platforms now connect businesses with fractional talent globally, facilitating seamless collaboration across geographic boundaries. Organizations leverage this model for agility, empowering them to adapt quickly, seize opportunities, and tackle challenges. Fractional executives also mentor teams, foster leadership development, and instill best practices, leaving organizations equipped for long-term success.