If you’re a business owner, chances are you’ve leaned heavily on your accountant over the years. And rightly so, they’re essential for keeping things compliant, efficient, and tidy when it comes to tax and year-end accounts.
But when you’re thinking about growth or preparing for an exit, you might find yourself asking for more than they’re really set up to deliver. That’s where a Fractional CFO comes in.
Let’s break down what that actually means, how it differs from what your accountant does, and why having both in your corner can be a game-changer.
What is a Fractional CFO?
A Fractional CFO (also known as a portfolio or part-time CFO) is a senior finance professional who works with businesses on a flexible basis, typically a few days a month, to provide strategic financial leadership.
Rather than just looking in the rear-view mirror, a CFO is focused on the road ahead. They’re involved in the why, what next, and how do we get there.
In simple terms:
- Your accountant makes sure everything adds up.
- Your CFO helps you decide what to do with the numbers.
Accountants vs CFOs: Not Either/Or — It’s Both
It’s not about replacing your accountant. Far from it. Most businesses I work with already have a solid accounting setup, often someone they’ve been with for years and trust deeply.
Where I come in is to complement that setup. Your accountant ensures your accounts are accurate and tax-efficient. I work alongside them to build forecasts, manage financial risk, and develop the strategy that supports your growth or exit goals.
Think of your accountant as making sure the engine is running smoothly. The CFO helps you plan the route, avoid potholes and get to your destination faster, whether that’s scaling the business, bringing in investment, or preparing for a successful exit.
What Does a Fractional CFO Actually Do?
Every business is different, but here are some of the areas I typically get involved in:
- Financial forecasting and modelling (not just spreadsheets, real, decision-driving tools)
- Cash flow planning and scenario testing
- Strategic input for growth or succession plans
- Stakeholder management (buyers, lenders, legal advisors)
- Preparing for and supporting business exits
- Hands-on support sitting with you, working through it together
I’m CIMA qualified, which means my training is grounded in commercial strategy as well as financial management. I’ve also spent my career working in businesses, not just advising from the outside, so I understand the pressures, pace, and priorities that come with running and growing a company.
That’s a different perspective from other qualifications, such as ACA or ACCA, which are more practice-focused. Both are valuable, just with different strengths, and when we work together, that blend can be incredibly powerful.
Real-World Example: Supporting a Business Exit
Recently, I worked with a business owner who was looking to exit after 10+ years. They had an accountant, but the process quickly became overwhelming. There were buyers, lenders, solicitors, all with questions, deadlines and requirements.
I worked alongside the business owners to pull together detailed forecasts, addressed due diligence queries, and helped the owner understand what the numbers actually meant at each stage. I was also a sounding board when decisions got tough, something that’s hard to put a price on.
That deal went through as planned, and the owner got the outcome they’d worked so hard for.
Is It Time to Bring in a CFO?
Here are a few signs your business might be ready:
- You’re planning for growth but unsure how to fund it
- You want more clarity and control over your cash flow
- You’re considering a sale or succession in the next 1–3 years
- You need support dealing with lenders, buyers, or legal advisors
- You want to make decisions based on real financial insight, not just gut feeling
Let’s Chat
If any of this sounds familiar, it might be worth a conversation. No pressure, no hard sell — just a proper chat about where you’re at and what support might help.
