What’s a Fractional FD?
A Fractional Finance Director is a seasoned financial expert who works with startups part-time or on a project basis. They offer high-level strategic guidance – without the full-time salary commitment.
Why It Matters for Start-ups
Start-ups move fast and burn cash quickly. A fractional FD helps you stay on top of finances while you scale. Think of them as your flexible CFO – there when you need them, without bloating your payroll.
What They Do
Fractional FDs handle:
- Budgeting & forecasting
- Cash flow & financial modeling
- Risk management
- Fundraising support & investor relations
- Financial reporting & compliance
They don’t just crunch numbers—they help steer your company in the right financial direction.
The Startup Edge
- Cost-Effective: Only pay for what you need – no salary, benefits, or equity dilution.
- Scalable Support: Scale involvement up or down as you grow.
- Instant Expertise: Tap into cross-industry insights from someone who’s been there.
- Focus on Growth: Free up founders to build, while the FD manages the money.
When to Bring One In
- You’re preparing for a raise
- You’re scaling rapidly
- You’re facing cash flow challenges
- You need strategic financial planning
- You lack in-house financial leadership
Bottom Line
Hiring a full-time CFO too early can drain resources. A fractional FD gives you top-tier financial strategy without the full-time cost – keeping your start-up lean, smart, and ready to grow.
Need Help Deciding?
Whether you’re weighing up a fractional finance director or thinking about bringing someone in full time, we’re here to help. We’ve worked with tech agencies at all stages of growth and can advise on the right financial leadership for your needs. Get in touch – we’d love to chat.
