As growing businesses face increasingly complex financial decisions, many reach a critical point where they need expert financial guidance, but lack the budget or need for a full-time CFO. Hiring a permanent chief financial officer can be premature for startups, scale-ups, and SMEs, not to mention prohibitively expensive. Yet, without senior financial leadership, companies risk missed opportunities, mismanaged cash flow, and poor investor relations.
This is where a fractional CFO becomes invaluable. A fractional CFO offers strategic financial expertise on a flexible, part-time, or interim basis, helping companies make smarter decisions, manage risk, and build sustainable growth without the burden of a full-time salary. The model is fast becoming a go-to solution for UK businesses, especially those navigating funding rounds, international expansion, or operational restructuring.
In this guide, we’ll explore what fractional CFOs do, why they matter, how much they cost, and how Macildowie - known for its recruitment expertise, leadership advisory, and operational strategy - can support businesses through every stage of the journey.
What Is a Fractional CFO?
A fractional CFO is a senior finance professional who works with businesses on a part-time or project basis. Their responsibilities are comparable to those of a traditional full-time CFO: developing financial strategy, managing risk, optimising operations, and improving profitability. The difference lies in the flexibility and cost-efficiency of the engagement.
This model works particularly well for SMEs, scaling companies, and private equity-backed ventures that need high-level expertise but don’t yet require a full-time executive. By working a few days a week or month, fractional CFOs provide targeted support; often during pivotal moments such as raising capital, entering new markets, or restructuring finance functions.
Instead of paying a six-figure salary and benefits package, businesses can access the same level of insight and leadership for a fraction of the cost, making the role both strategic and budget-friendly.
Benefits for UK SMEs, Scale-ups & PE-backed Businesses
For growing businesses, every pound counts, and investing in a full-time CFO too early can tie up capital that could be better spent elsewhere. Fractional CFOs give organisations access to strategic finance leadership without long-term commitments, helping preserve cash flow while still moving the business forward.
They provide immediate value by introducing forecasting discipline, improving board reporting, advising on funding options, and building out performance dashboards. In many cases, they act as a strategic partner to the CEO - translating numbers into insight and helping leadership make informed decisions under pressure.
This level of support is especially beneficial for scale-ups and PE-backed companies. Whether it's managing due diligence ahead of a fundraise, preparing investment-ready forecasts, or guiding exit strategies, a fractional CFO brings clarity and capability during complex transitions. As businesses grow, the role can easily evolve, from a few hours a month to a more embedded presence as needs increase.
Typical Engagement Models & Pricing
The cost of a fractional CFO depends on location, industry, scope, and seniority. In London, hourly rates tend to fall between £100 and £300, while in other parts of the UK, they typically range from £80 to £250 per hour.
Daily rates offer more predictability. London-based businesses may pay £800 to £2,000 per day depending on the complexity of the role, while regional firms might pay £600 to £1,500 per day.
For ongoing support, many companies prefer monthly retainers. These usually start at around £2,000 and can go up to £6,000, with some high-touch or investor-facing engagements in London reaching £10,000 or more per month. Retainers ensure consistent access to the CFO while keeping costs manageable.
Project-based pricing is also common. A one-off engagement, such as preparing a fundraising strategy or leading system integration, can cost anywhere between £5,000 and £50,000, depending on duration and deliverables. Hybrid models are emerging too, blending flat fees with equity stakes or performance incentives to align interests and share risk.
A 30/60/90-Day Rollout Plan
To ensure measurable value, fractional CFOs often follow a structured 30/60/90-day plan.
In the first 30 days, they lay the groundwork. This involves reviewing financial systems, understanding business objectives, meeting with stakeholders, and identifying risks or inefficiencies. Quick wins, such as improving cash flow visibility or adjusting spending, can usually be implemented early.
Between days 31 and 60, the CFO moves into planning mode. This stage is about building or refining financial forecasts, aligning targets with growth plans, and developing internal reporting frameworks. Strategic conversations with department heads and investors often begin here, ensuring finance supports every part of the business.
By the 90-day mark, implementation is in full swing. Dashboards are embedded, monthly reporting is standardised, and systems for cash management and risk oversight are in place. The CFO may also lead training sessions or help mentor junior finance staff, ensuring the business continues to benefit long after their engagement ends.
Recommended Tech Stack
Technology plays a central role in the efficiency and impact of a fractional CFO. The right tools reduce manual work, improve data accuracy, and give stakeholders real-time insights into the company’s financial health.
Xero remains a go-to accounting platform for many SMEs due to its user-friendly interface and seamless integrations. For larger, more complex businesses, solutions like NetSuite or Sage Intacct offer greater customisation and scalability.
For business intelligence and reporting, tools such as Power BI, Fathom, or Spotlight Reporting allow CFOs to visualise KPIs and trends clearly. In one notable case, a UK SaaS company recovered outstanding payments and improved cash collection by using a Power BI dashboard designed by its fractional CFO.
Forecasting tools like Float or Trovata also play a key role. They support scenario modelling, highlight risk areas, and enable rapid decision-making, all vital during growth or uncertainty.
Practical Cadence & Engagement Rhythm
A fractional CFO must deliver value without disrupting day-to-day operations. That’s why a structured, predictable cadence is essential.
Most engagements include a weekly sync with leadership to review performance and plan priorities. Bi-weekly updates on cash flow, month-end oversight, and quarterly reviews of KPIs or strategic plans are also typical. The CFO may attend board or investor meetings, depending on the scope.
This rhythm fosters accountability and helps build a finance culture grounded in transparency, clarity, and decision-making. Regular, concise updates replace complex, backwards-looking reports; empowering leadership to act faster and more confidently.
How Macildowie Can Help
Macildowie helps businesses unlock the power of fractional finance leadership. Whether you need short-term support during a transition or longer-term strategic guidance, we connect you with proven finance professionals who can step in and deliver impact from day one.
Our services go beyond sourcing. We tailor each engagement to fit your growth stage, culture, and operational goals, ensuring a seamless match. From interim CFO placements to advisory input on structure, onboarding, and performance frameworks, we help embed each leader into your organisation for maximum value.
Operating across the East Midlands and Home Counties, Macildowie combines deep regional knowledge with national reach. Our focus is on building long-term partnerships and providing strategic solutions that go far beyond recruitment.
Conclusion
For businesses in transition, a fractional CFO offers the ideal balance between cost, control, and capability. Whether you’re navigating a funding round, preparing for audit, or simply outgrowing your current finance setup, fractional leadership offers immediate clarity and long-term confidence.
With Macildowie as your partner, you gain access to finance experts, recruitment insight, and advisory support - all delivered with a flexible, outcomes-focused approach.
If you're ready to explore the benefits of fractional CFO support, get in touch. Our team will help design a tailored engagement that meets your needs today and evolves with your growth tomorrow.
