Is Fractional Work the Future of Executive Leadership?

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Kristine Sickels — former corporate marketing leader turned founder of C-Sweet, a thriving fractional leadership firm helping businesses access executive-level talent on a flexible, scalable basis.

Kristine shares her personal journey from leading powerhouse brands like Crock-Pot, Mr. Coffee, and Rubbermaid to launching her own fractional marketing agency that now employs 11 talented women as fractional executives. We explore why more leaders (especially women) are finding freedom, flexibility, and continued impact through fractional roles — and why companies are increasingly tapping into this innovative model.

Whether you’ve heard of fractional marketing officers, fractional CFOs, or fractional chief people officers, this conversation breaks down exactly how fractional contract work is reshaping the future of work.

Key Takeaways:

• What Fractional Really Means: I unpack the difference between fractional positions, part-time executives, and consulting — and why it matters for both talent leaders and companies.
  
  
• Why Mid-Sized Companies Win Big: We discuss why companies between $500M–$3B often benefit most from fractional leadership to access top-tier strategic talent without full-time salaries.
  
  
• The Flexibility Factor: Kristine explains how fractional executive work helps experienced leaders stay in the game while also managing caregiving, entrepreneurship, or passion projects.
  
  
• Development as a Deliverable: I highlight why great fractional executives aren’t just solving problems — they’re mentoring internal teams to ensure lasting growth.
  
  
• The Business Model Shift: We explore why fractional CMO and fractional contract work roles are becoming increasingly common across industries, and how executives can position themselves for success.
  
  
• Tips for Aspiring Fractional Leaders: Kristine shares advice for executives considering a transition into fractional work — including the mindset shift that sets them up for thriving careers.

If you’re curious about fractional positions, contract work, or how entrepreneurship intersects with executive leadership — this is a must-listen primer on one of today’s fastest-growing career paths.

Dr. Kristine's links:

• C-Sweet Website: https://myvirtualcsweet.com/
• Dr. Kristine LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-kristine-sickels-your-virtual-cmo-and-public-speaker/
• MicDrop : https://micdropworkshop.com/
• Join the monthly Mic Drop Club: https://micdropworkshop.com/club/

People Success Playbook: https://limerockconsulting.myflodesk.com/peoplesuccessplaybook

Company Website: www.limerockcareerco.com
Speaking Website: www.mindyeast.com