Hiring Guide

What Should a Fractional CIO Deliver? Setting Expectations and Measuring Value

Before you engage a fractional CIO, get clear on what they should deliver, how to measure their impact, and what a bad engagement looks like.

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Where Businesses Get Stuck

The challenges we most commonly see when organisations come to us:

You’re about to engage a fractional CIO but don’t know how to structure the contract, what deliverables to expect, or how to hold them accountable.

Our Methodology

The Fractional CIO Deliverables Framework: 90-day plan, quarterly roadmap, board reporting cadence.

What Starkhorn Brings

Daniel Jacobs: 20+ years in technology and security, 15+ of them in leadership roles. VetPartners (BC Partners, GBP1.2bn), Jardine Motors Group (GBP2bn). Published author. PRINCE2, ITIL, IIM Full Member. Clear deliverables in every engagement.

Starkhorn does not subcontract or use associate networks. You work directly with Daniel Jacobs from the first conversation through to delivery.

Who This Is For

This service is designed for:

CEOs about to engage or currently managing a fractional CIO

This is not the right fit for: Businesses looking for technical support rather than strategic leadership.

Frequently Asked Questions

How quickly can Starkhorn begin?

In most cases we can begin within five to ten working days. For urgent situations such as a sudden leadership gap or an active incident, we can mobilise faster. Contact us to discuss your timeline.

What does a typical Starkhorn engagement cost?

Engagements are structured as monthly retainers or fixed-term day-rate assignments. The cost depends on scope and time commitment. We are transparent about pricing from the first conversation and will give you a clear indication on the call.

What experience does Starkhorn bring?

Starkhorn is led by Daniel Jacobs, with 20+ years in technology and security, 15+ of them in leadership roles. He has served as Interim Group Technology Director at VetPartners (BC Partners-backed, GBP1.2bn), accountable for both technology and security, and as CIO and CISO at Jardine Motors Group (GBP2bn turnover). He holds PRINCE2, ITIL Foundation, and is a Full Member of the Institute of Interim Management.

Does Starkhorn work with businesses outside London?

Yes. We work with clients nationally and, for some engagements, internationally. Much of our advisory work is delivered remotely, with on-site presence when needed. Location has not been a barrier for any of our clients.

What is the first step to working with Starkhorn?

Book a no-obligation conversation using the link on this page. In 30 minutes we will understand your situation, tell you honestly whether we are the right fit, and outline what a first engagement would look like. There is no sales process and no pressure.

Next step

Ready to Talk?

Starkhorn works with MDs, CEOs, and boards of growing businesses. If you have a technology leadership gap, a security concern, or a transformation that is not delivering, we can help. Book a 30-minute conversation with no obligation.