SHOPIFY FRACTIONAL CTO

Hands-on CTO leadership for Shopify brands that want to scale smarter

At Ambaum, we don’t just take development tickets, we ask why before we build. Our team acts as your strategic filter, helping you choose the most efficient path, whether that’s custom development or a smart off-the-shelf app. With experience across hundreds of high-growth Shopify brands, we know what works, what scales, and when to say no. From filters to headless builds to backend integrations, we guide your tech stack with long-term success in mind.

WHY AMBAUM

More than just

development services

Shopify Strategy
Development Strategy
We help roadmap the right development investments: prioritizing impact, scalability, and speed to market. From theme choices to headless builds, we guide you through what to build now versus what to build later.
App Guidance and Trade-Offs
We evaluate whether to build or buy, helping you avoid unnecessary custom work and reduce long-term tech debt. With deep Shopify app ecosystem knowledge, we find solutions that fit your stack and your budget.
eCommerce Operations and Workflows
We connect the dots between your storefront and the systems behind it: ERPs, 3PLs, subscriptions, CRMs, and more. Whether you’re scaling processes or integrating new tools, we ensure it all works together.
OUR PROCESS

Turning tech complexities into
business growth

Discovery & Assessment
Tech Stack Strategy
Implementation & Optimization
Ongoing Support & Iteration

Frequently asked questions

How is a Fractional CTO different from a development agency?

TLDR - You need more than just developers - you need strategic technology leadership.

A Shopify CTO ensures your tech stack is efficient, scalable, and aligned with your business goals. We don’t just build; we help you make smart technology decisions that reduce costs and maximize growth.

What types of Shopify brands benefit the most from a Fractional CTO?

TLDR - We don’t just execute, we strategize, prioritize, and optimize.

Most agencies take requests and complete tasks. A Fractional CTO takes a proactive approach, guiding your technology investments, minimizing tech debt, and ensuring your Shopify infrastructure is future-proof.

Do you handle both front-end and back-end development?

TLDR - Yes, we cover both.

We handle front-end (themes, UX/UI, Shopify Liquid) and back-end (app integrations, APIs, automation) development. Whether you need performance improvements, custom features, or complex system connections, we ensure your Shopify tech stack is built for growth.

How do you help us decide between custom development vs. using an app?

TLDR - We weigh cost, scalability, and long-term value.

Instead of jumping straight to custom builds, we assess whether an existing app can meet your needs. We have deep experience with Shopify’s app ecosystem and help you make decisions that minimize long-term costs.

What does an ongoing engagement with Ambaum look like?

TLDR - Strategic partnership, not just project-based work.

We work as an extension of your team, guiding development, optimizing your tech stack, and providing ongoing support. Whether it’s a few hours a month or a dedicated engagement, we flex to meet your needs.

No pitch. No pressure. Just perspective.

Get the strategic input you’ve been missing