Leadership. Strategy. Results.
Technology decisions can make or break a company’s growth. But most organizations don’t need a full-time CTO – they need experienced leadership that can step in, bring clarity, and deliver outcomes.
Michael Harden provides Fractional CTO services for startups, enterprises, and government organizations that need executive-level technology direction without the overhead of a permanent hire. His work bridges the gap between strategy and execution, helping teams deliver faster, scale smarter, and make confident decisions.
What Is a Fractional CTO?
A Fractional CTO is a part-time or project-based technology leader who provides the same strategic oversight as a full-time Chief Technology Officer – but with flexible engagement terms.
Michael partners with executive teams to:
- Define technology strategy and roadmaps
- Align technical priorities with business goals
- Assess and optimize teams, vendors, and systems
- Manage digital transformation initiatives
- Ensure technology investments drive measurable ROI
You get access to senior-level expertise when you need it most – without long-term payroll commitments or recruiting delays.
Services Overview
Fractional & Interim CTO Leadership
Michael steps in to provide executive-level leadership for organizations in transition, growth, or restructuring phases. He works alongside your leadership team to create structure, establish priorities, and manage delivery across technical and operational areas.Ideal for: Startups preparing for scale, enterprises between CTO hires, or teams needing an experienced advisor to steady operations.
Technology Strategy & Roadmaps
A strong technology strategy defines what success looks like and how to get there. Michael helps organizations map out their next phase of growth through clear, actionable technology roadmaps that align resources, teams, and timelines.Deliverables include: Strategic roadmaps, architecture assessments, vendor evaluations, and prioritized execution plans.
Due Diligence & Technical Audits
Investors, acquirers, and executives rely on Michael for independent technical assessments. He evaluates codebases, infrastructure, security, and team capabilities to identify strengths, risks, and opportunities.Ideal for: M&A due diligence, venture capital assessments, and technology risk audits before major investments.
Digital Transformation & Modernization
Michael leads organizations through modernization initiatives that improve efficiency, scalability, and customer experience. His approach emphasizes measurable progress and practical execution – not endless strategy sessions.Focus areas: Cloud migration, Oracle and enterprise system optimization, process automation, and data-driven decision-making frameworks.
Advisory & Mentorship
Sometimes, a conversation with the right person can change the direction of an entire project. Michael offers executive advisory sessions and team mentorship, helping leaders gain perspective and align on key decisions.Topics include: Technical leadership, innovation management, digital transformation, and product validation.
Why Work With Michael
- Decades of experience. Over 20 years leading technology initiatives in enterprise, government, and global consulting.
- Recognized leadership. Forbes Technology Council contributor and award-winning executive.
- Hands-on expertise. Experienced in Oracle, enterprise systems, and scalable architecture.
- Proven results. From Fortune 500s to emerging startups, his methods consistently deliver impact and clarity.
Flexible Engagement Options
Michael offers Fractional CTO services through three engagement models designed to meet your organization’s stage and needs:
- Part-Time Leadership – Ongoing, retained executive support for growing organizations.
- Project-Based Advisory – Short-term engagements focused on specific goals or deliverables.
- Interim CTO – Temporary executive leadership to manage teams, stabilize operations, or lead transitions.
Each engagement begins with a discovery call to understand your objectives and design a plan that delivers results quickly and efficiently.
Let’s Start the Conversation
A Fractional CTO gives you the advantage of senior expertise without long-term commitment or overhead. Whether you’re building, scaling, or transforming, Michael helps you make every technology decision with confidence.