Hiring a Fractional CFO might sound like something only big corporates do — but in reality, many growing SMEs need that kind of support long before they realise it.
Often, I get a call when things feel a bit chaotic:
“We’re growing but the numbers aren’t adding up.”
“Cash flow is tight, and I can’t see why.”
“I’m thinking about selling, but I don’t know what the business is really worth.”
These are the kinds of challenges that don’t always show up on a spreadsheet — but they’re exactly where a CFO can bring clarity, direction, and strategy.
So, When Is the to Hire a Fractional CFO Right Time?
Here are some of the common signs your business might be ready for a Fractional CFO:
1. You’re Growing, But Don’t Feel in Control
More sales, more staff, more systems — but you’ve still got that uncomfortable “something’s slipping” feeling. Maybe profits aren’t tracking with growth, or cash is always tighter than expected.
A CFO can help you understand the why, and build financial plans that scale with your ambition — not against it.
2. You Rely on Your Accountant for Strategic Advice (and They’re Not Set Up for That)
Your accountant is brilliant — no doubt. But their role is about compliance and tax efficiency. If you find yourself asking them for forecasts, commercial input or decision support… you might be asking them to do the job of a CFO.
A CFO works alongside your accountant to fill that gap.
3. You Want to Exit in the Next Few Years
You don’t need a CFO after the sale — you need one well before.
From preparing forecasts and tidying up internal reporting to managing buyers and advisors, a CFO helps you get exit-ready and get the best outcome.
4. Cash Flow is a Constant Stress Point
You know you’re making money, but it doesn’t feel like it.
Sound familiar?
A CFO looks beyond the P&L and helps you build a cash flow strategy that aligns with how your business actually operates — not just what the accounts say.
5. You’re Making Big Decisions Without Financial Clarity
Hiring, investing, launching new services, expanding into new markets — all big calls. Without proper financial insight, they come with risk.
A CFO brings the numbers into those conversations and helps you make decisions with confidence.
What Happens If You Wait Too Long?
Sometimes, the real cost isn’t hiring a CFO — it’s not hiring one soon enough.
- You miss red flags in your margins
- You can’t secure the funding you need
- You overinvest in the wrong area
- You under-prepare for exit or succession
- You lose sleep over what’s around the corner
I’ve seen it happen more than once — and it’s always preventable with the right support in place.
You Don’t Need Full-Time
The good news? You don’t need to hire a CFO full-time to get this level of insight and support.
A Fractional CFO gives you the benefit of senior financial leadership on a flexible, cost-effective basis. A few days a month, tailored to your needs — without the full-time salary.
You get strategic thinking, hands-on support, and clear direction, all without the overhead.
Let’s Talk
If any of this sounds familiar, it might be time to explore what a CFO could do for your business.
👉 Book a call or request a free financial health check
