Ready to scale for growth? The benefit of using a fractional CFO
Picture this: after a lot of hard work you are no longer a ‘brand new’ startup, and possibly at the crossroads of early stage-development and scaling up. You’ve been wearing many hats across the business up till now, but you’ve come to the conclusion there are some serious financial solutions you need to consider to keep the momentum going. So, do you hire a CFO at this stage – or utilise the services of a fractional CFO?
Let’s delve into these roles and consider what could be the best option for you – and learn how these decisions could be game-changers for your business.
1. What does a CFO do?
Before you make any decisions, let’s understand the role of a CFO. A Chief Financial Officer is the ‘financial aficionado’ of your business, and amongst other things they will be in charge of:
- Monitoring cash flow/runway management
- Financial planning and analysis
- Making sure you are adhering to financial obligations
- Covering risk management
- Providing financial insights into the business
- Planning for and participating in fundraising, accessing grants, debt and equity
- Getting involved in staff pay and ESOP management
These operations are crucial for continued success, and while it may have been easier to track startup metrics at the early stage, as things become more complex you will need a qualified eye to cast over the financials to keep powering forward.
2. What is a fractional CFO and how is it different from hiring in-house?
A fractional CFO is a financial professional who offers their expertise to a company on a flexible, as-needed basis. When startups need strategic financial guidance but aren’t in a position to hire someone full-time, a fractional CFO offers a sensible and cost effective solution. They provide the financial expertise required to steer a startup through its growth phases, ensuring that financial strategies are not just about survival but about thriving in a competitive landscape.
So why not just hire someone, wouldn’t it be better that they know the business inside out? Well, yes, while a full-time CFO certainly offers valuable continuous expertise, it’s essential to consider the challenges this might pose, especially the cost! Startups in particular may find it challenging to find the resources needed for a full-time CFO. This is where a fractional CFO can step in and provide unique benefits.
Won’t it be difficult to only engage ‘sometimes’ with a fractional CFO, and will half the time be spent getting them up to speed each time? Not at all! With their ability to provide just-in-time financial guidance, cost efficiency, and a fresh perspective, fractional CFOs can be your secret weapon in efficient financial management and sustainable growth. The beauty of the fractional CFO is their ability to scale with your growth, offering immediate impact without the heavy financial commitment. It’s an ongoing relationship but on your terms – only when you need them.
3. Unlocking the fractional CFO advantage
Managing cash flow effectively and securing the right kind of investment at the right time is the key to sustainable growth. A fractional CFO provides startups with advanced financial management, including accurate forecasting, strategic fundraising advice, and the implementation of financial controls to optimise cash flow. They also play a vital role in preparing for funding rounds, ensuring your startup’s financials are presented in a way that aligns with potential investors’ expectations, and so increasing the chances of successful funding.
Sounds good so far doesn’t it! These elements are crucial for startups looking to navigate the complexities of growth, investment, and operational challenges without committing to the overhead of a full-time employee.
3. What’s next?
Ultimately the decision between hiring someone in-house or using fractional CFO services will be based on what is best for the unique needs of your business and the stage you are at. But never fear, as usual we are here to support you at every stage of the journey. If the idea of a fractional CFO has piqued your interest, then get in touch with us for a chat and see how we can help propel you to the next stage. Let’s go!
BOOK A CALL with us for a chat, and get your business ready for the next stage of growth.
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