The Basics
I work as a fractional data architect - embedded in your team part-time, typically 1-3 days per week. The goal is senior architecture leadership without the overhead of a full-time hire.
Every engagement is different, but they share common principles:
- Build capability, not dependency - The goal is always that you can continue without me
- Start small, expand if it makes sense - No long commitments upfront
- Work with your team, not around them - I’m not here to replace anyone
- Focus on what matters - Not every problem needs solving right now
Engagement Models
Fractional (Ongoing)
The core offering. I work alongside your team 1-3 days per week on an ongoing basis.
What this looks like:
- Regular cadence (same days each week, or flexible depending on needs)
- Deep context over time - I know your codebase, your team, your constraints
- Architecture decisions, code reviews, team guidance, stakeholder alignment
- Typical commitment: 3-6 month minimum, often longer
Good for: Companies that need senior data leadership but aren’t ready for a full-time Head of Data.
Learn more about Fractional Data Architect
Project-Based
Focused engagements with a defined scope and timeline.
Examples:
- Platform Review - 2-3 week assessment of your current data platform
- Team Alignment Sprint - 1-2 week intensive to clarify ownership and priorities
- Migration planning or vendor evaluation
What this looks like:
- Clear deliverables and timeline
- Intensive work over a short period
- Often leads to ongoing fractional work, but no obligation
Good for: Specific problems that need senior attention, or a starting point before committing to ongoing work.
Advisory
Light-touch guidance for specific questions or decisions.
What this looks like:
- Architecture Advisory - Async or scheduled calls for complex decisions
- Ad-hoc consultation when you hit a wall
- Second opinion on vendor choices, architecture patterns, team structure
Good for: Teams that have senior capability but occasionally need outside perspective.
How Engagements Start
1. Discovery Call (30 min)
We talk about what’s happening in your data org. What’s working, what’s not, what’s keeping you up at night. No pitch - just understanding whether there’s a fit.
2. Scoping Session
If it makes sense to continue, I dig deeper. This might include:
- Quick review of your current architecture
- Conversation with key team members
- Understanding your priorities and constraints
This shapes what the engagement looks like - scope, cadence, and focus areas.
3. Start Small
Most engagements begin with a focused piece of work:
- A platform review
- An architecture sprint
- A specific problem to solve
This builds context before committing to ongoing work. It also lets us both see if the working relationship makes sense.
4. Evolve as Needed
Some clients need a few weeks of intensive help. Others work with me fractionally for months or years. The engagement flexes based on what you actually need.
No long-term lock-in. If priorities shift or you’ve built the capability you need, we wind down.
What I Don’t Do
Staff augmentation - I’m not a contractor to fill a seat. The work is strategic, not just hands-on execution.
Full-time roles - I work fractionally with 2-4 clients at a time. This is by design - cross-pollination across contexts makes the work better.
Recruiters’ work - Hiring support means defining roles and evaluating candidates, not sourcing.
Vendor sales - If I recommend a tool, it’s because it fits your situation, not because I’m getting paid by the vendor.
Pricing
I work on a day-rate basis. Rates depend on the type of engagement:
- Fractional (ongoing): Committed days per week at a lower day rate
- Project-based: Fixed scope and price agreed upfront
- Advisory: Per-session or retainer for async access
Specific numbers depend on scope and commitment level. We’ll discuss this after the discovery call when I understand what you need.
Location & Availability
Based in Belgium (Hamme). Available for:
- Belgium: Hybrid (on-site + remote)
- Europe: Remote, with occasional travel
- Global: Remote
I typically take on 2-4 fractional clients at a time. Availability varies - best to book a call to discuss timing.
Ready to Talk?
Not sure which model fits? That’s fine - we’ll figure it out together.
Book a 30-minute call to discuss your situation. No pitch, just an honest conversation about whether I can help.