Driving Impact Across Companies: Meet Natalie Hoop, Fractional Operations & Strategy Expert

We recently had the chance to chat with Natalie Hoop, a seasoned fractional operations and strategy professional with over 15 years of experience in operations, strategy, and business optimization. From tripling runway to boosting revenue 238% in 30 days to her work with high-growth startups, Natalie has developed a unique ability to see companies holistically, bridging customer operations, revenue operations, and business strategy. Today, she runs her own fractional practice, helping companies build operational foundations, scale efficiently, and optimize processes. 

During our conversation, Natalie shared insights on her journey into fractional leadership, the strategies and skills that have driven her success, and how fractional work benefits both companies and executives. She also discussed emerging trends shaping the industry, including the impact of AI, and offered personal tips on maintaining balance while working across multiple organizations. Here’s what she had to say. 

Q: Can you provide a brief overview of your professional background and what drew you to your current role? 

 Natalie: I have 15 years of operations experience, starting in retail and then moving into startups, where I learned strategy operations and how to bridge customer operations, revenue operations, and business strategy. In 2023, I began working with Sequel and also started my own company, where I focus on fractional operations and strategy. 

I run my company solo and work with businesses at two main stages. First, I help companies with no operations in place to build a foundation so they can operate efficiently instead of doing everything manually. Second, I work with scaling businesses that have operational debt, helping them automate processes, improving margins, and freeing up team capacity. I also advise companies occasionally, like the health insurance company I’m currently supporting. 

Q: What experiences have been most influential in shaping your approach to work? 

 Natalie: My retail background has been surprisingly influential. It allows me to see companies holistically and consider all stakeholders. This perspective is invaluable in the fractional space because I can embed with teams, not just fix projects, but to improve the company overall and enhance employee experience. 

Q: Who or what has been a source of inspiration professionally? 

 Natalie: My fractional peers have been a huge source of inspiration. When I started, I focused on building a network of incredible people who complemented my skill set and allowed me to grow. One person I look up to is Pamela Wilson, who’s also part of the Venturous platform. 

Q: What drew you to fractional leadership roles, and how does it differ from traditional positions? 

 Natalie: In traditional roles, once you solve the initial challenges, growth opportunities plateau. Fractional work offers variety and the chance to make a bigger impact across multiple companies for the same number of hours. It allows me to help multiple businesses reach their goals while keeping my work exciting and impactful. 

Q: How does fractional work benefit both companies and executives? 

 Natalie: For companies, fractional work offers access to high-level expertise they might not afford full-time, helping them stay budget-conscious while achieving results. For fractionals, it provides the freedom to choose projects we are passionate about and engage in meaningful, varied challenges every day. 

Q: What skills or strategies have been important to succeed fractionally? 

 Natalie: Two things stand out: building a strong network for support and community, especially when working remotely, and excellent time management to handle context switching efficiently. Being organized and adaptable ensures companies get what they need while keeping their workflow effective. 

Q: How has working fractionally shaped your perspective on leadership and business strategy? 

 Natalie: Fractional work challenged my belief that full-time employees are inherently more committed. I’ve found that choosing the clients I work with drives my investment and performance. Fractionals are highly engaged and deliver great impact because our work is purpose-driven and client-focused. 

Q: What trends or changes are shaping the industry right now? 

 Natalie: AI has a big impact. Companies are learning how to use it efficiently while avoiding wasted resources. It’s also encouraging businesses to consider smaller, optimized teams rather than over-hiring. Overall, I’ve seen a shift from rapid scaling to efficiency-focused operations. 

Q: How do you find a balance between work and personal life? 

 Natalie: I teach and coach other fractionals on this. The key is understanding how you want your daily life to feel and setting expectations upfront with clients. Structuring your schedule around your personal priorities ensures you’re present for both work and yourself. 

Q: If you could instantly be an expert in anything outside your work, what would it be? 

 Natalie: I’d love to be a veterinarian! I’m a huge animal lover, and being able to instantly understand everything about animal anatomy, illnesses, and preventative care would be a dream.