When Is the Right Time to Hire a Fractional Controller?

As a small business owner, you wear many hats—sales, operations, HR, and yes, even finance. In the early stages, this works. Spreadsheets and a bookkeeper might be enough to keep your financials in order. But as your business grows, you may start asking yourself:

When do I need more financial expertise?

That’s where a fractional controller comes in. Unlike a full-time hire, a fractional controller provides high-level financial leadership on a part-time or project basis, giving you access to the expertise you need—without the full-time cost.

So, how do you know when it’s the right time to bring one on board? Here are some clear signs:

1. Your Business Is Growing Quickly

Fast growth is exciting, but it often comes with financial complexity—new revenue streams, hiring decisions, cash flow challenges, and increased reporting needs. If you’re scaling and need financial strategy to guide your next moves, a fractional controller can help you manage growth responsibly.

2. Cash Flow Is Unpredictable

Even profitable businesses can struggle with cash flow. If you’re constantly stressed about having enough money to cover payroll, vendors, or upcoming expenses, it’s a sign that deeper financial management is needed. A fractional controller can build cash flow forecasts and strategies that smooth out the ups and downs.

3. You’re Unsure How Profitable You Really Are

Are you making money—or just moving money around? Many business owners confuse revenue with profit. A fractional controller can give you clarity by setting up proper reporting, analyzing margins, and identifying where you’re leaking profits.

4. You’re Considering Big Strategic Moves

Thinking about raising capital, taking out a loan, or expanding into a new market? These decisions require financial modeling and risk analysis. A fractional controller ensures you have the data and strategy to make confident, informed choices.

5. Your Bookkeeper or Accountant Can’t Provide Strategic Insight

Bookkeepers and accountants are essential, but their focus is usually on recording history and filing taxes. A fractional controller goes further—offering forward-looking strategy, decision support, and financial leadership that drives growth.

6. You’re Spending Too Much Time on Finances

Your time is best spent growing your business, not buried in spreadsheets. If financial management is pulling you away from higher-value work, it’s time to delegate. A fractional controller takes the financial weight off your shoulders so you can focus on leading.

The Bottom Line

Hiring a fractional controller isn’t just about fixing problems—it’s about unlocking opportunities. The right time to hire one is when your business has outgrown basic financial management and you need a strategic partner to guide growth, manage cash flow, and improve profitability.

At Olly Consulting, I specialize in providing small business owners with the financial leadership they need—without the overhead of a full-time hire. If you’re wondering whether it’s the right time for your business to bring on a fractional CFO or controller, let’s talk.