Fractional product managers(FPM) are part-time, contract-based product management professionals who work with organizations on a limited and flexible basis.
FPMs provide expertise and experience in areas like product strategy, product development, and operations (product DevOps).
Companies hire FPMs for cost-effectiveness, flexibility, and immediate impact, access to expertise and experience, and to address the growing complexity of product management.
FPMs differ from product consultants in engagement models, focus, duration, and deliverables.
Challenges faced by FPMs include limited organizational authority, income variability, client acquisition, and managing multiple clients.
Transitioning to a fractional product management role requires credibility, a good network, and a skill set to find and attract new clients.
FPMs often charge high hourly rates between $100 and $200 per hour.
Focus on setting clear priorities, reduce meeting loads, build strong relationships, communicate clearly, and continuously improve to be a successful FPM.
Fractional product managers are strategic part-time project managers who help companies with specialized skills and vast experience.
It’s especially valuable for startups and scaling companies that need specialized experience but aren’t willing to pay a full-time hire.