Fractional CFO jobs represent the new frontier of finance leadership. Part-time Chief Financial Officer positions where experienced leaders provide strategic financial guidance to multiple companies simultaneously—delivering world-class expertise at a fraction of the cost. The growth of this sector is supported by IPSE research on independent professionals and British Business Bank data showing SMEs increasingly leveraging flexible financial talent.
The Rise of Fractional CFO Jobs UK
The UK market for fractional CFO jobs UK has grown by over 180% in the past three years. This surge reflects a fundamental shift in how companies access senior finance talent, particularly among startups, scale-ups, and SMEs that need experienced financial leadership but cannot justify a full-time CFO salary of £150,000-£300,000.
"Companies access CFO expertise for £2,000-£5,000/week instead of £12,500+ monthly for full-time."
Why Fractional CFO Jobs Are Booming
- Cost efficiency: Senior expertise at a fraction of the cost
- Flexibility: Scale finance leadership based on current needs
- Quality talent: Access CFOs with diverse, multi-industry experience
- Speed to impact: No lengthy recruitment—start adding value within days
- PE/VC influence: Investors mandate fractional CFOs across portfolios
Types of Fractional CFO Jobs
Startup CFO
Series A-C fundraising & investor relations
£1,000-£1,400/dayPE Portfolio CFO
Financial transformation & value creation
£1,100-£1,500/dayScale-up CFO
Professionalising finance function
£950-£1,300/dayExit-ready CFO
Due diligence & IPO preparation
£1,100-£1,500/dayRequirements for Fractional CFO Jobs
Most fractional CFO opportunities require extensive qualifications and experience. Professional bodies like ICAEW, ACCA, and CIMA provide the professional credibility essential for fractional work. Understanding IR35 regulations is also critical for operating compliantly.
- 15+ years finance experience, 5+ in CFO or Finance Director roles
- Professional qualifications (ACA, ACCA, CIMA)
- Fundraising experience (Series A-C, debt facilities)
- M&A and due diligence expertise compliant with UK standards
- Board-level communication skills
- Knowledge of FCA regulations for financial services clients
