How to Know When Your Business Needs a Fractional FD
Fractional what?
I know, it’s not exactly a term that rolls off the tongue.
Put simply, a Fractional FD (Finance Director) is a part-time strategic finance partner for your business.
They step in for a few days each month to do everything a full-time FD would do without the full-time cost.
And for growing businesses, that’s an absolute game-changer.
What does a Fractional FD actually do?
Think of them as your right-hand partner in the financial side of your business.
They’re not just looking at compliance or tax (that’s your accountant’s role).
A Fractional FD helps you:
Understand your numbers, not just what they are, but what they mean.
Plan ahead, forecasting, budgeting, and building financial strategies that align with your business goals.
Spot opportunities and risks early so you can make informed decisions before issues arise.
Challenge your thinking because every CEO needs someone who won’t just say “yes.”
Bridge the gap between day-to-day finance and long-term strategy.
It’s not about spreadsheets. It’s about visibility, accountability, and growth.
When does your business need a Fractional FD?
Here are a few signs you might be ready:
You’ve outgrown the basics. You’re getting regular management accounts, but you’re not sure what to do with the data.
You’re making big decisions. Maybe you’re hiring, expanding, or investing and you need someone to sense-check the numbers, assess risk, and model outcomes.
You feel financially reactive. If cash flow surprises or tax bills still catch you off guard, a Fractional FD can help you get ahead of them.
You want accountability. Having someone in your corner who knows your numbers and challenges your thinking can make you a stronger, more confident leader.
You want to focus on growth. You’re ready to move from “keeping things running” to scaling strategically and you need financial insight to match that ambition.
Why the fractional model works
Hiring a full-time FD isn’t realistic (or necessary) for most SMEs.
A Fractional FD gives you access to high-level expertise without the six-figure salary.
It’s:
✅ Cost-effective – You only pay for the days you need.
✅ Experienced – They’ve worked with multiple businesses and bring that broader insight.
✅ Future-focused – They help you make decisions that move you toward your goals, not just keep you compliant.
The bottom line
A Fractional FD is for the business owner who’s done well but knows there’s more potential to unlock.
They help you turn financial data into clear direction.
They help you plan with confidence instead of guesswork.
And they make sure your business is financially ready for what’s next.
If you’re reading this thinking, “That sounds like what I need…” it might be time for us to talk.
At Corbar, we act as your Fractional FD — your sounding board, strategic partner, and steady hand behind the numbers. You bring the vision; we’ll bring the clarity.
