Talent Talks: Fractional HR Leaders

In our latest episode of Talent Talks, Mandy Resmondo, Corporate VP at Landrum Talent Solutions, sits down with Melissa Haid, VP of Delivery, and Helena Ferrari, seasoned HR consultant and global fractional CHRO, to explore the rising trend of fractional HR leadership, what it means, why companies are embracing it, and how it differs from traditional interim roles.

Melissa kicks off the conversation by defining fractional HR leadership as a strategic, part-time partnership for companies undergoing growth, change, or transition. Unlike interim roles, which focus on tactical tasks like payroll or recruiting, fractional leaders work closely with executive teams to guide overarching people strategy.

Helena brings over 25 years of global HR experience, having served as a CHRO across industries like tech, manufacturing, and e-commerce. She explains that companies turn to fractional HR leaders when:

• They lack in-house strategic HR capabilities
• They’re navigating growth, change, or M&A activity
• They need to expand into new markets
• Their HR needs are project-based or surge-based

Fractional leaders typically work directly with CEOs, CFOs, or COOs and focus on identifying organizational pain points, developing strategy, and mentoring internal HR teams. Helena emphasizes that her goal is to act as both a strategic guide and internal partner, empowering existing HR staff while delivering measurable impact.

When asked about results, Helena notes that realistic outcomes from a 6–12-month engagement could include:

• Scalable HR infrastructure
• Standardized recruiting processes
• Strategic workforce planning
• Improved C-suite alignment around people strategy

In Helena’s words, “People are our greatest asset, but also our biggest risk.” A fractional HR leader helps protect both.