Inversion Kevin French - Inversion GTM
CRO Compensation in
Technology Services
CRO compensation in technology services companies varies enormously based on stage, size, and structure. Getting the compensation model right is the first step in getting the right revenue leader.
01
The Base Salary Range
Full-time CRO base salaries in technology services companies range from $200K at Series A to $500K+ at $200M+ revenue stages. Fractional CRO retainers run $15K-$25K per month depending on scope and company size.
02
The Variable Structure
The most effective CRO compensation structures in technology services tie variable pay to lagging indicators - closed revenue, net revenue retention - not leading indicators like pipeline generation. Leading indicator-based variable compensation creates the wrong incentives.
03
The Equity Question
Full-time CROs at venture-backed or PE-backed technology services companies expect meaningful equity - typically 0.5%-1.5% depending on stage. Fractional CROs structure performance bonuses instead of equity. The economics are comparable over a 24-month horizon.
04
The Performance Layer
Kevin French's fractional engagements include a performance layer - a component of the fee that moves with revenue performance against agreed baseline metrics. Part of the fee is fixed. Part moves with what we move together.
"Most companies hire a CRO when they actually need a CGO. I know the difference - and I play both roles."
The Right Fit
This Is the Right Conversation If -
You're between revenue leadership hires
The highest-risk moment for a technology services company. A fractional CRO & CGO bridges it.
You're not sure which role you need
The Growth Audit answers that in 48-72 hours. Before committing to a full-time hire, know what you're hiring for.
Your current revenue model needs to change
Not improve - change. The person who runs the current model is not always the right person to design the next one.
You're PE-backed with a compressed timeline
A fractional CRO & CGO produces results in 60-90 days. A full-time hire produces results in 6-12 months.
If Any of This
Landed, Let's Talk.
If I'm wrong about your situation - if this is a product problem or a market problem instead of a revenue leadership problem - I'll tell you in the first 15 minutes. No deck. No demo.