When a CFO can help
Before a funding round, leaders need to explain cash flow, assumptions and risks as clearly as the business plan. In a period of fast growth, they may need better forecasts and a reliable way to review performance. Under pressure, the priority may instead be liquidity and room to act.
- Funding or refinancing
- Limited visibility of cash flow and forecasts
- Decisions on pricing, investment or profitability
What the work can include
Start with the decisions that need better financial input. A CFO can build a model the team understands, introduce reporting people actually use and prepare discussions with owners or lenders. They work alongside the finance and operations teams; they do not replace day-to-day bookkeeping.
- Cash-flow planning and scenarios
- Monthly performance reviews and useful measures
- Financial analysis for funding discussions
Set the remit from the start
Be clear about the decisions ahead, the data available and who will put changes into practice. Make space for the CEO and finance lead to work with the CFO. Judge the assignment by the quality of the decisions it supports, not the number of reports it produces.