Most business owners have a fairly clear idea of what their accountant does — tax, compliance, year-end reports, maybe some forecasting if you’re lucky.
But when I tell people I’m a Fractional CFO, the response is often:
“So… you do the books, then?”
Not quite.
A CFO’s role isn’t just about balancing numbers — it’s about turning those numbers into decisions, strategies, and action. And when you work with one on a fractional basis, it’s like having a part-time finance director in your corner, without the full-time cost.
So, what does that actually look like? What is a Fractional CFO?
It’s Not Just Spreadsheets and Boardrooms
There’s a bit of a myth that CFOs only belong in large corporates — buried in budget meetings or talking in jargon nobody really understands. But in reality, especially for SMEs, the role is incredibly practical, commercial, and hands-on.
As a Fractional CFO, I’m often sat with the business owner, sleeves rolled up, asking questions like:
- What are your goals over the next 12–24 months?
- Where are the pressure points in cash flow?
- What needs to happen financially to support your next move?
- Are your systems giving you the visibility you need to make confident decisions?
A Typical Day in the Life
There’s no one-size-fits-all, but here’s a flavour of what a day might involve:
- Reviewing cash flow forecasts — not just updating numbers, but stress-testing them
- Sitting down with a business owner to map out what growth really means financially
- Analysing margins or product lines to spot underperformers
- Helping prepare for conversations with banks or funders
- Working alongside the bookkeeper or accountant to ensure everyone’s aligned
- Supporting planning for a potential exit, succession, or investment
And just as importantly — translating all of that into plain English so it’s clear, actionable and aligned to what the business actually wants to achieve.
My Background Means I Get It
I’m CIMA qualified, which means my training is built around both financial management and commercial strategy. More importantly, I’ve worked inside businesses, not just looking in from the outside. I understand the pressures of managing a team, juggling priorities, and trying to make confident decisions with imperfect information.
That’s a different perspective from other qualifications, such as ACA or ACCA, which are more practice-focused. Both bring value — but when you combine those viewpoints, the business wins.
Flexible, Embedded, and Part of the Team
As a Fractional CFO, I’m not dropping in with a slide deck and disappearing. I’m integrated into the business — whether that’s a couple of days a month or more involved during critical periods like exit planning or major investment rounds.
It’s flexible, cost-effective, and tailored. You get senior-level financial input without needing to hire someone full-time.
And because I’m not tied to internal politics or legacy thinking, I can often see opportunities — or risks — that others might miss.
So What’s the Value?
Here’s what my clients usually say:
- “I finally understand what my numbers are telling me.”
- “I feel in control of the business again.”
- “We’ve got a clear plan, and I know what to focus on.”
- “You’ve saved me from making a very expensive mistake.”
It’s not just about the financials — it’s about confidence, clarity, and momentum.
Let’s Talk
If you’re curious about how a Fractional CFO could support your business — whether you’re planning growth, facing challenges, or thinking about a future exit — let’s chat.
👉 Book a call or request a free financial health check
