The concept describes a situation where an experienced executive, specializing in operational oversight, provides leadership services to a company on a part-time or contract basis, rather than as a full-time employee. This arrangement allows businesses, particularly startups and small to medium-sized enterprises, to access high-level operational expertise without incurring the full costs associated with a permanent hire. An example would be a seasoned operations leader who dedicates a specific number of hours per week or month to guide a company through a critical growth phase.
Employing this model can offer several advantages. It provides access to specialized knowledge and skills that might otherwise be unaffordable. Moreover, it allows companies to benefit from an objective perspective, helping to identify and address operational inefficiencies. Historically, this approach has gained traction as organizations seek greater flexibility and cost-effectiveness in their leadership structures, especially in rapidly evolving business environments. This model offers both strategic guidance and practical execution support.