Advisory · CFO Services
A CFO, when it matters.
Executive-level experience, without a full-time hire. We step in as your CFO, part-time or for a defined period, and take responsibility for your finances as if they were our own.
There comes a point when a business has outgrown its bookkeeper but does not yet need a full-time CFO. That is when the most important decisions are made.
Who it is for
For owner-managers, executive teams and boards in businesses that are growing, restructuring or preparing for a sale. And for investors who want a firm grip on the finances of a portfolio company.
We work closely with a small number of businesses at a time. It is what allows us to take real responsibility.
What we deliver.
- Financial leadershipResponsibility for the finance function: its people, processes and systems.
- Budgets and forecastsBudget, cash flow forecast and scenarios that connect to your strategy.
- Management reportingMonthly reporting built on the key figures that actually drive the business.
- FinancingDialogue with banks and investors, materials prepared and terms negotiated.
- Board workDecision material that stands up to critical review, presented by the person who prepared it.
- A sparring partner for managementA confidential counterpart for the decisions that cannot be discussed with everyone.
When you need a CFO.
- GrowthThe organisation is growing faster than the finance function. You need structure before it becomes expensive.
- CapitalYou need to raise capital or negotiate with the bank, and you need someone who speaks the investors’ language.
- BoardYour board is asking for better reporting and sharper decision material.
- TransitionYour CFO is leaving, and you need continuity until the right successor is found.
- TurnaroundCash is tightening, or the business model is changing. Action must be taken on an informed basis.
- SaleThe business needs to be ready for an owner who will look far more closely.
Numbers only matter when they change a decision.
How we work.
- ConversationWe start with the business, the owners and the decisions ahead of you.
- DiagnosisWe review the finance function and identify what needs strengthening first.
- PlanA clear agreement on responsibility, scope and what should be achieved by when.
- ResponsibilityWe step into the role and deliver, month after month.
- HandoverWhen you are ready for a permanent CFO, we help you find the right person and hand over.
Partner-led
Experience at the table.
Your CFO is a partner at Summ. One person who knows your business and stands behind the numbers.
Behind the partner stands the whole firm: tax, accounting, payroll and transactions. You get the breadth without having to coordinate it yourself.
Questions.
What is a fractional CFO?
An experienced CFO who works for you part of the time, typically a fixed number of days a month. You get the expertise and the accountability without the cost of a full-time hire.
What is the difference between a fractional and an interim CFO?
A fractional CFO is an ongoing part-time arrangement. An interim CFO steps in full-time for a defined period, for example during a change of leadership or a transaction.
How much time will you spend with us?
We agree that based on your needs. The scope can be scaled up around budgets, financing or transactions, and down in quieter periods.
Do you work on site?
Yes, when it adds value. Many clients choose fixed days on site and the rest remotely.
Can you attend board meetings?
Yes. We prepare the materials, present the numbers and take responsibility for them.
Can you also handle bookkeeping and accounts?
Yes. Summ can take on the entire finance function, so the CFO role rests on a foundation we stand behind ourselves.
How do you handle confidential information?
Information about your business is shared only with the people at Summ who work on your engagement.
What does a CFO from Summ cost?
It depends on scope and duration. We agree the price with you before we begin.
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