FAQs
What is a Fractional CFO?
A Fractional CFO is a financial professional who provides CFO-level expertise to companies through a monthly service agreement rather than as a full-time employee or on a part-time basis. They offer strategic financial leadership, analysis, and planning without the cost of a full-time executive. This arrangement is particularly valuable for small to mid-sized businesses that need executive-level financial guidance but don't require or can't afford a full-time CFO.
How is a Fractional CFO different from a full-time CFO?
A Fractional CFO provides high-level financial expertise at 20-30% of the cost of a full-time executive. Unlike a full-time CFO who serves as a permanent employee, a Fractional CFO works on a flexible contract basis, bringing diverse experience from multiple companies and industries. This arrangement allows businesses to scale financial leadership as needed while benefiting from an objective, independent perspective that many internal executives cannot provide.
What is not in the scope of a Fractional CFO?
A Fractional CFO doesn't handle day-to-day bookkeeping, accounting tasks, or tax preparation. They don't manage employees, record transactions, or provide treasury services like cash handling or bank reconciliations. Administrative functions such as payroll processing and accounts payable/receivable management remain with your existing team.
Am I big enough to hire a Fractional CFO?
If your business is growing, facing financial challenges, or preparing for a major transition, a Fractional CFO can provide the expertise you need. Typically, businesses with $5M–$100M in revenue benefit most from this service.
How does your firm charge for Fractional CFO Services?
We charge a monthly recurring fee with no minimum commitment, typically 20-30% of a full-time CFO's total compensation. There's a non-refundable onboarding fee to learn your business thoroughly. We offer a 100% guarantee—if we don't provide value exceeding our fee, we don't expect payment.
What Industries does your firm work with?
We are industry agnostic, recognizing that businesses of the size that we generally work with often face comparable financial challenges regardless of sector. While we work effectively across industries, we bring specialized expertise in food processing and manufacturing, general manufacturing, construction, financial services and service-based businesses where our team has developed deep operational and financial experience.
When is the right time to hire a Fractional CFO?
The right time to hire a Fractional CFO is when you find yourself making important decisions without solid financial analysis or when your accounting team needs higher-level guidance. If you're experiencing growth challenges, cash flow concerns, or increasing financial complexity, a Fractional CFO provides immediate strategic expertise without the commitment and cost of a permanent hire. This approach allows you to access executive-level financial leadership precisely when you need it, scaling services as your business evolves.
Can you work with my existing financial team?
Yes, we collaborate with your current team to enhance their capabilities and ensure alignment with your business goals. We’re here to complement, not replace, your staff.
How long does it take to see results from your service?
Most clients see tangible results within 30-90 days, with initial improvements in financial visibility and decision-making confidence. More substantial outcomes typically emerge within 6 months, depending on your specific challenges and how quickly your team can implement recommendations.