From the numbers to the change
- Your numbers sayNo finance head, or one stretched past capacity
- The cause underneathDecisions made on stale numbers, lender trust slipping
- What changesA CFO in place for a fixed term to run the numbers and the plan
- What to expectReliable numbers, a stable plan and a handover
An illustration of how the thinking runs, not a client result.
When an interim CFO makes sense
- The CFO or finance head has left, or there never was one.
- The numbers cannot be trusted or arrive weeks late.
- A lender conversation or investor process is coming and needs a credible finance lead.
- The owner is carrying the turnaround alone and the business is suffering for it.
- A restructuring or sale is under way.
What the interim CFO does
Weeks 1 to 2:
Take control of cash, set up the 13-week forecast and make the numbers reliable.
Weeks 3 to 6:
Find the cause from the numbers, build the plan and prepare lender communication.
Months 2 to 6:
Run the weekly rhythm, report progress, support negotiations, strengthen the finance team.
Handover:
Document the processes, train the successor or the team, and step back.
Interim CFO or turnaround consultant?
| Consultant | Interim CFO | |
|---|---|---|
| Role | Advises | Sits in the seat and acts |
| Time in the business | Part-time | Embedded for the period |
| Accountability | For the advice | For the numbers and the cash |
Business under pressure? Let a CFO read your numbers.
A senior CFO reads them with you and tells you what is really going on. No cost, no obligation.
Who it suits
Businesses large enough to need senior finance judgement and not yet able to hire it permanently, or in a period where a permanent hire would take too long. For the longer-run alternative see our virtual CFO service.
CFOAvatar complements every turnaround
A human CFO sees your business at the review. Problems do not wait for the meeting. CFOAvatar is connected to your accounting data and checks your numbers every day, so the scoreboard in a turnaround is always current. Ask it what an owner in trouble would ask:
What owners say after the numbers started talking
You have planned to set goals along with me and have been proactive in ensuring that we reach milestones as planned. In the event you depended on me for my inputs or consent, you have been prompt and caring in ensuring that we do not waste time.
Before CFOSurge came into the picture, our business lacked financial discipline. Once their team started overseeing our finances, everything fell into place. There was accountability and when you know someone is keeping track, you ensure things get done properly. It’s been three years and the systems they put in place are still working well. Our business is in a much better position today.
Soatech is perfect for a company like ours that doesn’t have an in-house Accountant / CFO. They are very professional and do things in a timely matter. They always get right back to you with an answer to your question.
Quoted word for word from our clients. Read more client words →
Questions owners ask us
What is an interim CFO?
A senior finance executive who works for a defined period to stabilise or lead the finance function through a critical phase.
How long does an interim CFO stay?
Typically three to twelve months, depending on the situation and the handover.
Why use one in a turnaround?
A turnaround needs reliable numbers, tight cash control and credible lender communication quickly. An interim CFO supplies these when a permanent hire would take too long.
Will my existing team be replaced?
No. The interim CFO works with your team and aims to strengthen it before leaving.