Operational leadership, without the full-time hire
My core focus is fractional and interim management; stepping into SMBs as an experienced operator when they need leadership, not a new FTE hire. 25 years in the chair, today as a partner in Mike Alpha Consulting. Coaching grew out of that work: for owners and managers who want the thinking without the engagement.
Most owners who call me aren’t always looking solely for advice. They’re looking for someone to step in, take ownership of operations, and free them up to run the business again. I free them up with my partners in Mike Alpha Consulting ➞. Our commitments:
➞ Operational audit
You suspect the problem, but you’re not sure where it actually is.
A structured diagnostic. I look at how the business actually runs — not how it’s supposed to — and hand you a prioritized map of what’s breaking and what to do about it. No retainer, no ongoing commitment.
Output: Issue map + action plan | Pricing: Fixed project fee
Right for you if: you want a second pair of eyes before committing to anything bigger.
➞ Fractional COO / CEO / CMO / CFO
You need someone running operations. You don’t need them full-time.
Part-time operational leadership embedded in your business — typically 2–3 days a week. We work directly with your team, take ownership of execution, and report to you weekly. Structured in 3-month cycles so the scope stays honest and the mandate stays current.
Commitment: 3-month cycles | Presence: 6–12 days/month | Pricing: Monthly retainer
Right for you if: you’ve outgrown your own operational bandwidth and need execution, not just advice.
➞ Interim Executive
Something broke, or someone left, and you need a decision-maker in the room now.
Full-time presence for a defined period — usually 3 to 9 months. We step into the role, stabilise operations, and build the handover as we go. The exit is planned from day one.
Commitment: 3–9 months | Presence: Full-time | Pricing: Day rate or project fee
Right for you if: you’re dealing with a leadership gap, a turnaround, or a crisis that can’t wait.
Not sure which fits?
Most conversations start with: “I know something’s wrong, I’m just not sure what.” That’s a fine place to begin. Book a quick call — no pitch, no prep needed.
Calls are via video or phone. I respond to all enquiries within one business day.