What is the difference between a Fractional Controller and a Fractional CFO?

A Controller focuses on financial operations - accurate books, monthly close, reporting. A CFO focuses on strategy - fundraising, M&A, board relations, financial planning. Controllers ensure accuracy; CFOs drive strategy.

When should I hire a Fractional Controller vs CFO?

Hire a Fractional Controller when you need professional financial management but don't require strategic finance leadership. This typically applies to businesses under £2-5M revenue. Above that, a Fractional CFO often makes more sense.

How much does a Fractional Controller cost?

Fractional Controllers typically charge £500-800 per day, with most engagements requiring 1-3 days per week. This is significantly less than a Fractional CFO (£900-1,500/day) and much less than hiring full-time.

Financial Management

What is a Fractional Controller?

A Fractional Controller provides professional financial management and accounting oversight on a part-time basis, bridging the gap between bookkeeping and CFO-level leadership.

£800-2,000

Day Rate

2-6 weeks

Time to Hire

50-70%

Cost Savings

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📈 OUTSIDE IR35 (Contractor)

Weekly take-home:£1,829

Monthly take-home:£7,928

Annual take-home:£95,131

⚠️ INSIDE IR35 (Employed)

Weekly take-home:£1,734

Monthly take-home:£7,516

Annual take-home:£90,192

👔 Permanent Employee

Weekly take-home:£2,431

Monthly take-home:£10,535

Annual take-home:£126,422

Outside IR35 advantage: +5%

Extra £4,939/year vs inside IR35

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📅Updated 30 Mar 2026

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£800-1500

Day Rate

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1-3

Days/Week

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50-70%

Cost Savings

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Est. April 2026

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Key Takeaways

1Fractional CFOs work 1-3 days per week, providing senior expertise without full-time costs
2UK day rates range from £800 to £1500, depending on experience and sector
3Typical engagements save 50-70% compared to full-time executive hires
4Ideal for startups, scale-ups, and SMEs needing strategic leadership
5No employment overhead: no pension, NI, benefits, or notice periods

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A Fractional Controller is a part-time financial professional who manages day-to-day accounting operations and financial reporting. They bridge the gap between basic bookkeeping and strategic CFO-level work, perfect for growing businesses that need professional financial management.

What Does a Fractional Controller Do?

<p>A Fractional Controller manages your financial operations without the full-time cost:</p><ul><li>Monthly financial statements and reporting</li><li>Cash flow management and forecasting</li><li>Accounts payable/receivable oversight</li><li>Budget preparation and variance analysis</li><li>Audit preparation and compliance</li><li>Financial process improvement</li></ul>

Controller vs CFO

<p>Controllers focus on financial operations and reporting accuracy. CFOs focus on strategy, fundraising, and board-level decisions. Many growing businesses start with a Fractional Controller before adding a Fractional CFO as they scale.</p>

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