Can you introduce yourselves and your roles?
Francisco, Operations Manager:
I’m Francisco, Operations Manager at Genesis Health. I’ve been with the company for just over three years and oversee day-to-day operations.
Rick, Fractional CEO:
I’m Rick Haslam, CEO of Genesis Health. I joined in November 2025 and have spent over 40 years working across the UK health and wellbeing sector, including fitness, insurance, hospital and care environments.
What was happening professionally that led you to look for a new direction?
Rick, Fractional CEO:
I’d been in a long-standing fractional role within an insurance-focused business that was expanding into the UK. When that contract came to a natural end, I knew I wanted to continue working fractionally and help another business grow. A recommendation led me to Connectd at exactly the right time.
Francisco, Operations Manager:
At Genesis, we were at a turning point. The business was growing beyond a founder-led model, and we knew we needed experienced leadership to scale properly. A friend recommended Connectd, and that’s how the conversation started.
What made you confident this partnership was the right fit?
Rick, Fractional CEO:
Connectd guided me through the platform step by step. Within a week, I was introduced to Genesis Health, and the connection felt immediate. The process was seamless and supported, which made a big difference for me.
Francisco, Operations Manager:
Trust was key for us. Knowing that candidates were already vetted and aligned in mindset made the process feel far more focused than traditional hiring.
What has this partnership unlocked for the business and for you personally?
Francisco, Operations Manager:
Everything feels clearer. The strategy is sharper, priorities are well defined, and we now have strong commercial representation in the UK. On a personal level, it’s removed the feeling of doing everything alone. I feel supported, heard, and confident in our decision-making.
Rick, Fractional CEO:
We’ve brought structure into the business. We’re clear on strategy, success metrics, communication rhythms, and individual responsibilities. That clarity has helped the whole team move in the same direction.
Why did a fractional executive role make sense at that stage?
Francisco, Operations Manager:
We needed someone inside the business, involved in real-time decisions. Advisory support wasn’t enough, but we weren’t ready for a full-time executive. A fractional role gave us strategic leadership with hands-on involvement.
Why a fractional CEO specifically?
Francisco, Operations Manager:
We needed commercial leadership, structure, and someone who could build relationships, drive sales strategy, and represent Genesis Health externally. We needed someone willing to roll up their sleeves.
How has Genesis Health evolved since bringing in CEO-level support?
Francisco, Operations Manager:
Operationally, it’s allowed me to focus more on vision and culture. Personally, it’s brought balance and confidence. I feel supported and able to think more creatively, knowing there’s strong leadership alongside me.
What drew you to a fractional executive role at this stage of your career?
Rick, Fractional CEO:
Fractional work lets me give my energy where it’s needed most. It gives Genesis Health access to senior experience at a level they can afford, while allowing me flexibility and balance in my own life. It works for both sides.
How is being a fractional CEO different from advisory or non-exec roles?
Rick, Fractional CEO:
As a fractional CEO, you’re responsible for the whole business, not just one function. That clarity matters. I can move across product, people, profit and operations without friction, which makes the role far more effective than a narrower advisory position.
How does this role fit into your wider portfolio career?
Rick, Fractional CEO:
I’ve always wanted to lead businesses without being tied to a full-time, 50-hour week. Fractional leadership gives me that balance. I can do meaningful work, support my own wellbeing, and continue building a portfolio career that fits my life.
