Fractional Chief Finance Officer
Employing a fractional Chief Financial Officer (CFO) offers a multitude of benefits, especially for small to medium-sized businesses seeking expert financial guidance without the full-time cost. This flexible arrangement allows companies to access high-level financial expertise and strategic insight, typically reserved for larger corporations at a fraction of the cost.
A fractional CFO is a finance professional offering part-time CFO services and is responsible for making crucial financial decisions, offering financial guidance and insights and leveraging financial strategies for the growth and stability of the company. They’re typically retained on a contract basis, synchronising financial management and advice with the firm’s operational strategies and goals.
Fractional CFOs have pivotal roles which involve managing financial risks, planning budgeting, tracking cash flow and financial planning. They also offer advice on long-term business planning including capital raising, mergers and acquisitions. These professionals have an interesting role as they bring an external perspective to the business, free from internal biases.
An interim chief financial officer typically reports to the CEO or the business owner. They may also have a responsibility to report to the board of directors or shareholders in some instances. Their decisions and strategies align to the visions of the CEO or business owner, ensuring that their role integrates seamlessly within an existing team.
Fractional CFO skills required
To be a successful fractional CFO, you need a strong foundation in accounting and finance. Solid understanding of financial forecasting, corporate finance, scenario analysis, cost accounting and the ability to analyse financial data to steer business recommendations is crucial. You should also possess sound knowledge of legal procedures related to finance and accounting.
Strong leadership skills are vital, as is the ability to direct and supervise your team to achieve business goals. You must have strong communication skills to explain complex financial information in an understandable manner to other members of the team.
In the rapidly evolving business environment, being proficient in financial technology is a must. Familiarity with financial management software, spreadsheets and data visualisation tools would serve you well.
Fractional Chief Finance Officer Jobs in Greater London
An administrative area that was created in 1965, Greater London is often described as the region within the M25. It comprises the City of London, as well as the 32 boroughs, and is home to an array of businesses, making it an ideal choice for those seeking Fractional Chief Finance Officer opportunities.
For hundreds of years, London was known for its shipping and manufacturing, producing everything from textiles and food products, through to automobiles and ironwork.
In fact, a number of such facilities are still in operation today, such as the Tate & Lyle sugar refinery in Silvertown, Warburtons in Brimsdown and Nestle in Hayes. At the Ford factory in Dagenham, vehicle body panels and diesel engines are manufactured, while Fuller's Brewery operates out of Chiswick.
For the most part, however, London's economy is now based in the financial and service industries.
Around 70 per cent of the FTSE 100 are located within Greater London. In Canary Wharf, you'll find the headquarters of HSBC, Barclays, Citigroup and Reuters, while other big-name businesses in Greater London include the Guardian Newspaper, Balfour Beatty, GlaxoSmithKline, PricewaterhouseCoopers, Marks & Spencer, BP, British American Tobacco and Royal Dutch Shell.
What's more, transportation is a huge part of London's economy and day-to-day operation. Overground trains, underground trains, buses, coaches, taxis and trams all keep Londoners on the move, while the area is also home to a number of airports and the Port of London.
Popular locations
Fractional CFO jobs at Cast UK
Have you carved out a niche as an accomplished interim chief financial officer and are looking for your next role? It’s a task where experience and understanding of diverse corporate environments is helpful, so if this sounds like you, we want to hear from you. Please register with us so we can forward your name to interested employers.
If your business is lacking a CFO and you like the idea of bringing in top talent on a temporary basis, there’s a wealth of experience to help when you work with Cast UK for your recruitment. Please call us on 0333 121 3345 or contact us here for more information.
Contact us