It would be best if you had CFO-level expertise to create budgets and forecasts, verify the accuracy of financial statements, interact with lenders, and much more. But only some have the time or resources to hire a full-time CFO.
That’s where a fractional CFO can come in. But how do you choose the best one for your business?
Experience
Working with a fractional CFO can be extremely valuable for startups and small businesses. They can help with bookkeeping, financial projections, budgeting, and forecasting. They can also assist with other business needs, such as helping raise capital or navigate a difficult economic challenge.
They can help a startup optimize its strategy, build and execute growth plans, and make recommendations to improve performance. They can also provide support during a challenging period, such as an investor’s due diligence or a company seeking to sell.
These specialists can help with the process by preparing financial projections that appeal to potential investors and buyers. They can also advise on the right systems to implement and ensure that the implementation goes smoothly.
Culture Fit
Finding a fractional CFO Denver with a good culture fit with your company is important. They must comprehend your company’s operations, culture, and objectives, particularly if they collaborate directly with your staff and board members.
Look for candidates with experience in various industries and growth stages. It is a sign that they are versatile and can provide unbiased advice.
Ask how they would approach a specific challenge your company is facing. It can give you an idea of their problem-solving skills and how they work with teams.
Flexibility
A fractional CFO can help a business with financial planning and strategy. They can also assist with specific projects such as brokering debt deals, acquiring other businesses, raising equity funding, or analyzing the gross margins of a product line. They can work individually or through an agency that employs a team of accountants, bookkeepers, and finance experts.
When choosing a CFO, look for someone who has experience working with startups and understands the unique challenges of an early-stage company. They should have a strong understanding of the latest finance technologies and trends. Consider asking potential CFOs about their hourly rate or how they structure their monthly fee so you can budget for them accordingly. Try to negotiate an equity grant instead of paying them with cash.
Cost
For many startups, there are other options than hiring a full-time CFO. Yet they need the financial insights a finance person provides to make sound business decisions. That’s where a fractional CFO can come in.
Fractional CFOs often work with a diverse set of clients. It allows them to help a range of businesses grow and achieve success. In addition, it gives them various problems to solve and keeps their work interesting.
As a result, they can charge a competitive rate for their services. However, the cost can vary depending on what they do for you and the scope of their work. Some part-time CFOs offer package deals, while others charge per session or on a retainer basis. They may also charge for expenses like travel and software.
Time
Choosing a fractional CFO services provider requires a clear understanding of what you need from them. From basic bookkeeping to financial forecasting and executing capital raises, your business may have different needs depending on its size and industry.
Attending networking events in your industry is a good idea so you can speak with potential candidates about pricing, service options, and former experience. It will give you a front-row seat to learn more about the CFOs you are considering and see how they might fit in with your company.
A qualified and trustworthy CFO can help your startup overcome financial challenges, achieve growth and optimize its strategy. Ensure you choose one who fits your company culture, has the needed expertise, and meets your service expectations.