Why Businesses Are Turning to Fractional CIOs – And Why I’m Helping Lead That Change

In today's fast-moving, digitally-driven world, more organisations are recognising the need for strategic technology leadership, without the overhead of a full-time executive. That’s where the Fractional CIO comes in. And it’s precisely where I thrive.

I’m Richard Keenlyside, a Fractional CIO, Business Transformation Director, and Strategic Advisor with over 30 years of experience helping businesses unlock the full potential of technology. From ERP transformation and AI-driven automation to cloud migration and cybersecurity strategy, I’ve led programmes that have delivered measurable impact across global enterprises, private equity-backed firms, and mid-market businesses alike.

Richard Keenlyside - CIO

What is a Fractional CIO?

A Fractional CIO is a part-time or interim executive who brings C-level technology leadership to businesses when they need it most—whether that’s during a growth phase, a digital transformation, an M&A deal, or a critical technology overhaul. It’s flexible, focused, and cost-effective.

Businesses engage me when:

• IT and business alignment is lacking

• Digital transformation feels overwhelming

• Cyber threats are escalating

• M&A integrations need expert navigation

• Legacy systems are holding innovation back

  
  

Why Work With Me?

I’ve operated across six continents and led technology and transformation programmes for companies with turnovers from £44M to over £600M. Here’s what I bring:

• ERP & Cloud Transformation Expertise(SAP S/4HANA, Oracle Fusion, NetSuite, Azure, AWS)

• AI, RPA, and Intelligent Process Automation

• Cybersecurity Maturity Frameworks

• Change Management & Governance Leadership

• Data Strategy, Analytics, and Business Intelligence

• Stakeholder Engagement from Shop Floor to Boardroom

• Private Equity & M&A IT Advisory

  
  

Whether in a fractional, interim, or non-executive director capacity, I help organisations cut through complexity and deliver structured, sustainable transformation.

Real Results

• Reduced technical debt by £2M in under a year

• Delivered AI and automation that saved 75,000 hours annually

• Led IT strategy across 13 global territories

• Supported PE-backed exits through seamless technology integration

• Delivered ERP and data modernisation across finance, retail, and manufacturing

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Let’s Connect

If your organisation is preparing for change—or needs help navigating it—I can help. Whether you're planning an ERP implementation, struggling with legacy systems, or simply need board-level thinking on IT strategy, I’ll work with you to make it happen.

Contact me here to discuss your transformation journey and how a Fractional CIO can help you lead with confidence.