Fractional CFO

A fractional CFO is a senior finance executive who provides part-time or project-based CFO services to a company without joining full-time. They own financial strategy, board and investor reporting, cash forecasting, fundraise preparation, and internal controls, work that requires executive judgment, not transaction processing. Unlike a part-time bookkeeper who records historical transactions, a fractional CFO interprets financial data, advises on capital allocation, and represents the finance function to stakeholders. Unlike a full-time CFO, the engagement is scoped to the company's stage and needs, typically on a monthly retainer.