Fractional CFO advisory for growing businesses
Senior finance leadership on a part-time basis, for businesses that have outgrown their accountant's monthly visit but do not yet need a full-time CFO. The aim is reliable numbers, a clear view of cash, and a finance function that lenders, investors and auditors can rely on.
Scope
What the work covers
Many owner-managed businesses in Mumbai reach a stage where turnover, borrowing or the number of people involved makes decisions harder without proper financial information. A fractional CFO works with the owners and the accounts team for an agreed number of days each month, setting up the reporting, controls and planning that a full-time CFO would, at a fraction of the cost.
The role is practical. It covers the monthly close, the cash forecast, the conversation with the bank, and the questions owners ask about margins, pricing and whether the business can afford its next step.
- Thirteen-week cash flow forecasts and working capital management (receivables, payables, inventory)
- Monthly management information (MIS) with a short commentary that owners actually read
- Annual budgets, rolling forecasts and variance analysis
- Bank and lender relations: CMA data, stock statements, renewal packs and covenant tracking
- Month-end close calendar, internal controls and audit readiness
- Costing, pricing and product or branch profitability
- Finance systems and ERP selection, and supervision of the accounts team
Approach
How the work is done
Diagnose
The first month reviews the books, reporting, cash position, banking arrangements and team, and agrees the priorities in writing.
Stabilise
A close calendar, a cash forecast and a standard MIS pack are put in place, so the business has reliable numbers within a fixed number of days after month end.
Improve
Attention moves to margins, working capital, controls and systems, with changes made in stages the team can absorb.
Review
A monthly review with the owners covers results, cash, risks and decisions, and the scope is adjusted as the business changes.
Getting started
Records to keep ready
- Last two years' audited financial statements and the current year's books
- Bank sanction letters, loan agreements and recent stock statements
- Existing MIS, budgets or forecasts, if any
- A short note from the owners on what they want the finance function to do better
Background
Ryan Vaz, FCA has held CFO and finance controller roles in edible oil refining, cement, retail and highway construction in India, Uganda and Tanzania, including raising USD 35 million of bank financing and leading a 30-person finance team. See experience and expertise.
Fees
Fees depend on the scope of work, the volume and condition of records and the time required, and are confirmed in writing in an engagement letter before work begins.
Questions about fractional CFO advisory
What is a fractional CFO?
A fractional CFO is an experienced finance leader who works for a business part-time, typically a few days a month, rather than as a full-time employee. The business gets CFO-level planning, reporting and controls without the cost of a full-time senior appointment.
When does a business need a fractional CFO?
Common signs are borrowing from banks, preparing to raise investment, growth that is straining cash, management accounts that arrive late or are not trusted, or owners spending too much time on finance problems. It also helps when a business is moving to a new accounting system or ERP.
How is a fractional CFO different from the statutory auditor?
The statutory auditor gives an independent opinion on the financial statements and cannot take on management roles for the same client. A fractional CFO works inside the business as part of management. The two roles are complementary and should be held by different firms.
Can a fractional CFO work remotely?
Much of the work, such as forecasts, MIS, reviews and lender packs, can be done remotely using cloud accounting and shared files. Regular meetings with the owners and team, in person or online, keep the work tied to the business.
Contact
Phone +91 95384 16161 or email ryan@vazassociates.in. Office opposite Maxus Mall, L.T. Road, Borivali West, Mumbai 400092. Work can also be handled remotely.