Market Insight
How Much Does a Fractional CISO Cost? UK Pricing Guide for 2026
Fractional CISO day rates in the UK run from £900 to £2,000 per day. Here’s what you should expect to pay, and what you’re actually getting.
Discuss Your RequirementsWhat Drives the Cost
The factors that most significantly affect cost and value:
- You need security leadership but you’re worried it’s unaffordable.
- Cynomi and other vendors make you wonder if a platform is cheaper.
- It isn’t.
Our Methodology
Fractional CISO vs Full-Time vs vCISO Platform: the cost comparison, with break-even analysis.
What Starkhorn Brings
PAA: How much does a virtual CISO cost? Cynomi publishes pricing. Starkhorn publishes independent practitioner rates.
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:
- and boards evaluating their security leadership investment
This is not the right fit for: Businesses looking for a one-off pen test or security audit cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much should we budget for this role?
The cost varies significantly by engagement model. Full-time appointments carry six-figure salaries plus on-costs and benefits. Fractional or interim arrangements through Starkhorn are structured as monthly retainers or day-rate contracts, giving you predictable, proportionate cost aligned to scope.
Is a fractional arrangement better value than a full-time hire?
For most SMEs and PE-backed businesses, yes. A fractional senior leader gives you board-level expertise at a fraction of the salary cost, without the recruitment risk, notice periods, or ongoing employment obligations. The right answer depends on your volume of work and budget.
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
Get a Clear Picture of Your Options
Every engagement is scoped around your specific situation, not a generic rate card. Book a conversation to understand what Starkhorn can deliver and what it will cost.
Book a Conversation