Service

Fractional Chief Innovation & R&D Officer

Calsoï provides an experienced innovation and R&D director a few days a month. A fractional, outsourced or part-time R&D leader, for companies that need senior leadership without a full-time hire.

Who it is for

For mid-sized companies, SMEs and deeptech startups that need to structure their R&D, de-risk their project portfolio or clear a technology hurdle, without hiring a full-time R&D director straight away. It also works as interim management, while you recruit and train the future in-house leader.

What it changes

You gain the experience of a group-level R&D director at a cost suited to your size. Depending on the need, the engagement takes the form of an operating partner alongside management, an outsourced R&D directorship over time, or a time-boxed interim role.

How an engagement works

  • Assessment of the R&D and innovation function and of current projects
  • A clear roadmap, tied to the company's strategy
  • Leadership of teams, project portfolio and priorities
  • Transfer of methods and upskilling of the in-house team

Why Jean-Christophe Simon

Thirty years leading R&D and innovation, at Groupe SEB, Thuasne, the joint Essilor-Nikon centre in Japan, L'Oréal and Kao. He has led R&D teams across several countries and brings every project back to the one question that matters: why will users actually adopt this product? More about his background.

Frequently asked questions

What is a fractional R&D director?
An experienced innovation and R&D director who works a few days a month, as an outsourced, fractional or interim leader, without a full-time hire.
What size of company is it for?
Mostly mid-sized companies, SMEs and deeptech startups that need to structure R&D or clear a technology hurdle without creating a full-time role straight away.
How long does an engagement last?
From a few months as interim management to a recurring engagement over several years, depending on the need. Pace and duration follow your projects.
To discuss fractional R&D leadership: get in touch.