Chris Sprucefield
Based in Ireland · 20+ years experience
Summary
Fractional CTO helping startups and scaleups turn technology strategy, delivery and risk management into stronger commercial outcomes.
About
I bring hands-on engineering depth and executive delivery experience across infrastructure, information security, payments, FinTech and technology operations.
Over my career, I have worked with and led teams across five continents and more than 30 countries, supporting environments ranging from startups to enterprise-scale operations. Much of this work has been in complex, regulated or high-accountability settings where technology decisions need to support commercial goals, operational resilience and risk control.
As a fractional CTO, I help startups and scaling companies create clarity around technology strategy, delivery priorities, architecture, security, team structure and operational execution. My focus is on making technology work as a practical business enabler, not as an isolated technical function.
My leadership style is hands-on, people-focused and based on leading by example. I aim to raise standards, guide teams and create clear direction rather than manage by title. I avoid micromanagement, preferring clear goals, delivery by agreement, and delegated responsibility with the authority needed to act.
Visit my website for more information:
https://emberlabs.tech
Skills
Software Architecture, Cloud & Infrastructure, M&A / Due Diligence, Platform Modernisation, Cybersecurity, Engineering Leadership, Vendor Management, DevOps, Governance & Risk, Data & AI
Regions covered
Industry experience
Not-for-profit, Government, Fintech, Professional Services, Manufacturing, Retail, SaaS, Education, Healthcare
At a glance
Chris brings hands-on experience across Software Architecture, Cloud & Infrastructure, M&A / Due Diligence, Platform Modernisation, Cybersecurity, Engineering Leadership and 4 other areas. Available for engagements across Asia-Pacific, Europe, North America. Industry experience includes Not-for-profit, Government, Fintech, Professional Services, Manufacturing and 4 more.
How fractional CTO engagements with Chris work
Chris works on a fractional basis — typically one to three days a week for an agreed engagement length — so you get senior technical leadership without the cost or commitment of a full-time hire. Engagements commonly include technical due diligence, board reporting, engineering team leadership, technology strategy, architecture reviews, hiring support, and stepping in as interim CTO during a transition.