Fractional Chief Operations Officer Certification
Become a strategic operational leader capable of driving performance and scaling multiple organizations
Program Overview
The Fractional COO Certification Program prepares operations leaders to excel in the dynamic and growing field of fractional executive leadership.
Organizations need experienced operational leadership to optimize processes, implement systems, and scale effectively—but many cannot support a full-time COO. The fractional model allows seasoned operations executives to serve multiple companies simultaneously, bringing high-level expertise to organizations that need guidance with their operational strategy, team development, and performance improvement.
Our certification program equips you with the specialized skills needed to thrive in this unique leadership role, combining operational excellence with business strategy and the ability to quickly adapt to different company cultures, industries, and maturity levels.
Fractional operations leaders face a distinct challenge: they must rapidly understand complex operational environments, identify the highest leverage opportunities, and implement solutions that deliver measurable impact within constrained timeframes. Our program provides the frameworks and methodologies to meet this challenge.— Dr. Robert Martinez, Lead Instructor
Throughout this 12-week program, you'll develop a comprehensive toolkit of frameworks, methodologies, and practical approaches that can be immediately applied to create value for your clients. You'll also join a professional network of like-minded operations leaders who provide ongoing support and collaboration opportunities.
Program Details
Duration
12 weeks, part-time
Format
On-demand with optional in-person workshops
Time Commitment
8-10 hours per week
Cohort Size
Limited to 30 participants
Certification
Globally recognized
Investment
$4,795 USD
Why Choose the FCOO Certification
Stand out as a qualified operations leader with specialized skills in the fractional model
Industry Recognition
Gain a credential recognized by organizations seeking proven fractional operations leadership.
Operational Excellence
Master methodologies for rapidly optimizing processes and systems across diverse organizations.
Practical Application
Apply your learning to real-world scenarios through case studies and a comprehensive capstone project.
Professional Network
Connect with a community of operations leaders for ongoing support, referrals, and collaboration.
Business Growth
Develop the business skills to market your services and scale your fractional practice.
Practical Toolkit
Receive operational frameworks, assessment tools, and implementation templates for immediate client use.
Curriculum Overview
A comprehensive program designed to develop all aspects of fractional operations leadership
Foundations of Fractional Operations Leadership
Establish the fundamentals of the fractional COO role and how it differs from traditional operations leadership positions.
Topics Covered:
- The fractional COO landscape and market opportunities
- Core responsibilities and scope definition
- Establishing authority with limited time and resources
- Rapid operational assessment frameworks
- Building relationships with key stakeholders
Learning Outcomes:
Define your unique value proposition as a fractional COO, establish effective client engagement models, and develop strategies for quickly assessing operational environments and building executive trust.
Operational Strategy & Execution
Develop comprehensive operational strategies aligned with business objectives and create effective execution plans.
Topics Covered:
- Rapid operational assessment methodologies
- Strategic planning for operations
- Translating business strategy into operational plans
- Resource planning and allocation
- Operational metrics and KPI frameworks
- Execution management and accountability systems
Learning Outcomes:
Master the ability to quickly assess operational landscapes, develop strategic operational plans, define effective metrics, and create accountability systems that ensure successful execution.
Process Optimization & Systems Implementation
Build expertise in identifying, mapping, and optimizing core business processes to drive efficiency and scale.
Topics Covered:
- Business process mapping and analysis
- Lean and Six Sigma methodologies for fractional leaders
- Systems selection and implementation
- Workflow automation and technology integration
- Documentation and knowledge management
- Change management for process improvements
Learning Outcomes:
Develop the expertise to identify process bottlenecks, implement improvement methodologies, select and implement appropriate systems, and manage the change process for successful adoption.
Team Development & Performance Management
Learn strategies for assessing, developing, and optimizing organizational structure and team performance.
Topics Covered:
- Organizational design and team structure assessment
- Talent evaluation and capability mapping
- Performance management frameworks
- Team development and coaching strategies
- Cross-functional collaboration models
- Building high-performance cultures
Learning Outcomes:
Develop the ability to assess organizational structures, implement effective performance management systems, build team capabilities, and foster high-performance cultures with limited direct authority.
Scaling Operations & Growth Management
Master approaches for building scalable operations that support business growth while maintaining quality and efficiency.
Topics Covered:
- Operational readiness for growth assessment
- Scalable systems and processes design
- Capacity planning and resource management
- Quality management and continuous improvement
- Cross-departmental integration and alignment
- Operational risk management
Learning Outcomes:
Develop the ability to identify operational constraints to growth, implement scalable solutions, manage quality during expansion, and align operations across departments to support business scaling.
Fractional COO Business Operations
Develop the business acumen and operational skills to build and scale a successful fractional COO practice.
Topics Covered:
- Fractional practice models and service packaging
- Pricing strategies and value-based fee structures
- Marketing your fractional COO services
- Client acquisition and relationship management
- Contracting and scope management
- Balancing multiple client engagements
Learning Outcomes:
Structure your fractional COO practice for success by developing effective service packages, pricing models, marketing strategies, and operational approaches to manage multiple client relationships.
Capstone Project
Apply your learning to a comprehensive fractional COO scenario that simulates real-world challenges.
Project Components:
- Comprehensive operational assessment
- Strategic operational improvement plan
- Process optimization and systems recommendations
- Team structure and performance framework
- Executive presentation and stakeholder communication
- Peer review and feedback
Learning Outcomes:
Demonstrate your ability to integrate all aspects of the fractional COO role into a cohesive approach for a simulated client engagement, preparing you for real-world success in this position.
Your Instructors
Dr. Robert Martinez
Lead Instructor & Program Director
Dr. Martinez brings over 20 years of operations leadership experience including 7 years as a successful Fractional COO serving companies across SaaS, manufacturing, and professional services sectors. Prior to his fractional career, he held COO positions at two high-growth companies and served as VP of Operations at a Fortune 500 enterprise.
He has guided more than 25 companies through operational transformations and has particular expertise in scaling operations while maintaining quality and efficiency. Robert holds a Ph.D. in Operations Management from Stanford and is a certified Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt.
"The most successful operations leaders combine strategic vision with excellent execution. In our program, we focus on building both capabilities—the ability to see the big picture while also implementing practical solutions that drive immediate results."
Additional Program Instructors
Anna Williams
Process Optimization Specialist
Former VP of Process Excellence at OptiCore, 15+ years of experience implementing lean methodologies and business process improvements across various industries.
James Carter
Scaling Operations Expert
Operations leadership veteran who has guided five companies through rapid growth phases, specializing in building infrastructure for scale while maintaining organizational agility.
Maya Patel
Systems Implementation Specialist
Expert in operational technology selection and implementation with extensive experience integrating systems to support business processes and provide actionable insights.
Success Stories
Hear from graduates who have transformed their careers with the FCOO certification
The operational assessment framework I learned in this program has become my signature offering. It's allowed me to quickly demonstrate value to new clients and has directly led to multiple long-term engagements. Within six months of certification, I'd tripled my client base.
This program gave me the confidence to transition from a corporate operations role to a thriving fractional practice. The mix of strategic frameworks and practical tools has been invaluable in helping me deliver measurable results for clients across different industries.
The community of fractional leaders I've connected with through this program has been just as valuable as the curriculum. We regularly collaborate on projects, share resources, and provide support to each other. This network has directly contributed to my success.
Frequently Asked Questions
This program is designed for experienced operations professionals with at least 5 years in senior operations roles (COO, VP of Operations, Operations Director, etc.). Candidates should have a strong understanding of business processes, team leadership, and operational strategy. Prior experience in advisory or consulting roles is beneficial but not required.
The program follows a hybrid format with:
- Weekly online modules with video lectures and reading materials
- Bi-weekly live virtual sessions for discussions and case studies
- Two in-person weekend workshops (can be attended virtually if needed)
- Practical assignments and a capstone project
- One-on-one coaching sessions with experienced fractional COOs
The program requires approximately 8-10 hours per week, which includes:
- 2-3 hours of video content and reading materials
- 2 hours of live sessions (recorded for those who cannot attend)
- 3-5 hours of assignments and practical application
- Two weekend workshops (Friday evening and all-day Saturday)
The program is designed to accommodate working professionals with flexible scheduling for most components.
We offer several payment options to accommodate different financial situations:
- Full upfront payment of $4,795 with a 5% discount ($4,555)
- Three-part payment plan ($1,598 per payment)
- Employer sponsorship (we can provide documentation for reimbursement)
Additionally, we offer a limited number of scholarships for underrepresented groups in operations leadership.
Graduates of our program report several key benefits:
- Increased ability to secure fractional COO engagements
- Higher rates (average increase of 35% after certification)
- Improved confidence in positioning and delivering fractional services
- Access to a network of peers and ongoing professional development
- Recognition by companies seeking qualified fractional operations leadership
- Practical tools and frameworks that accelerate client impact
Upon certification, you'll join our community of fractional operations leaders which includes:
- Monthly virtual meetups with guest speakers and peer discussions
- Access to our online resource library and continuously updated tools
- Quarterly business development workshops
- Opportunity to participate in our client referral network
- Listing in our directory of certified fractional COOs
- Ongoing professional development and specialized courses
Upcoming Cohorts
Select the cohort that best fits your schedule
Spring 2023
Limited SeatsStart Date
April 10, 2023
Application Deadline
March 20, 2023
Availability
3 seats remaining
Live Sessions
Mondays, 6-8pm EST
Summer 2023
OpenStart Date
July 24, 2023
Application Deadline
July 3, 2023
Availability
20 seats remaining
Live Sessions
Tuesdays, 6-8pm EST
Fall 2023
Early AccessStart Date
October 16, 2023
Application Deadline
September 25, 2023
Availability
30 seats remaining
Live Sessions
Wednesdays, 6-8pm EST
Application Process
Four simple steps to begin your journey toward FCOO certification
Submit Application
Complete our online application form with your professional background, experience, and goals for the certification.
Operations Assessment
Take a brief operations assessment designed to evaluate your strategic operations experience and identify areas for development.
Admissions Interview
Participate in a 30-minute interview with a program advisor to discuss your background and ensure the program aligns with your goals.
Finalize Enrollment
Upon acceptance, complete your registration by selecting your payment plan and preparing for your cohort start date.
Ready to advance your career as a Fractional COO?
Start Your ApplicationApplications are reviewed within 5 business days. Early application is recommended as cohorts fill quickly.
Additional Resources
Explore these resources to learn more about fractional COO careers
The Ultimate Guide to Fractional COO Success
Download our comprehensive guide to building a successful career as a fractional operations leader.
Download Guide
Operational Excellence Webinar
Watch our popular webinar on creating scalable operations for growing businesses.
Watch Webinar
Operational Assessment Toolkit Preview
Get a sneak peek at our proprietary framework for rapidly evaluating operational effectiveness.
Access Preview