What Fractional CFO Consultants Deliver
Fractional CFO consulting goes beyond basic bookkeeping or accounting. These are senior finance professionals—often with Big Four, private equity, or FTSE experience—who bring strategic perspective to your business.
Strategic Finance
- Financial strategy and planning
- Business model optimization
- Pricing and margin analysis
- Growth and scaling strategy
Fundraising Support
- Investor presentations and materials
- Financial modelling
- Due diligence preparation
- Term sheet negotiation
Operations
- Cash flow management
- Financial systems and controls
- Reporting and dashboards
- Budget vs actuals analysis
Governance
- Board reporting and attendance
- Investor relations
- Risk management
- Compliance oversight
Fractional CFO Consulting Costs
The cost of fractional CFO consulting varies based on seniority, scope, and engagement structure. Most consultants work on either daily rates or monthly retainers.
Best for project-based work, due diligence, or ad-hoc strategic support.
Ongoing engagement, typically 1-2 days per week with regular involvement.
When to Hire Fractional CFO Consulting
Preparing for Fundraising
You need investor-ready financials, models, and data room preparation but don't have in-house expertise.
Rapid Scaling
Business is growing faster than your finance function. Need senior oversight without permanent headcount.
Strategic Transformation
Implementing new systems, restructuring, or preparing for exit requires experienced financial leadership.
Cash Flow Challenges
Need expert help managing working capital, forecasting, or navigating financial difficulties.
Fractional vs Full-Time CFO
| Aspect | Fractional CFO | Full-Time CFO |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Cost | £50,000-£120,000 | £150,000-£250,000+ |
| Time Commitment | 1-3 days/week | Full-time |
| Flexibility | Scale up/down easily | Fixed commitment |
| Experience Level | Often more senior | Varies by hire |
Finding Fractional CFO Consultants
The UK has a growing market for fractional CFO consulting. Key sources include specialized platforms like FD Capital, executive networks, and professional bodies like the ICAEW (Institute of Chartered Accountants).
When evaluating consultants, look for relevant sector experience, proven track record in your stage of business, and clear communication about how they'll work with your existing team.
The Bottom Line: Fractional CFO consulting provides senior financial leadership at £4,000-£10,000/month vs £150,000+/year for full-time. Ideal for scaling businesses needing strategic finance expertise without permanent headcount.