Fractional Controller vs. Full-Time Hire: Which Makes Sense for Your Business?

As your business grows, so does the complexity of your finances. What may have once been manageable with a bookkeeper or a basic accounting system can quickly become overwhelming when you start dealing with cash flow forecasting, strategic planning, and funding decisions.

At this stage, many business owners face a critical choice: Should you hire a full-time controller, or is a fractional controller (also known as an outsourced or part-time CFO/Controller) the better fit?

Let’s break down the differences so you can make the right decision for your business.

The Case for a Full-Time Controller

A full-time Controller is a senior executive who is deeply embedded in your organization. They provide strategic oversight, manage financial teams, and work closely with leadership to guide decision-making.

Advantages of a full-time Controller:

• Daily, hands-on involvement in all financial operations

• Dedicated focus on your company’s financial health

• Availability for in-depth collaboration with internal teams

  
  

The challenge for small businesses: Hiring a full-time Controller comes with a significant cost. In Canada and the U.S., a full-time CFO can command well into six figures annually—often $150K to $250K+—not including bonuses, benefits, and overhead. For many small businesses, that level of investment is simply out of reach.

The Case for a Fractional Controller

A fractional controller offers the same strategic expertise as a full-time controller but on a flexible, part-time basis. They work with multiple clients, dedicating a set number of hours or days per month to each.

Advantages of a fractional controller:

• Cost-effective: Access top-tier financial guidance without the six-figure salary

• Flexibility: Scale services up or down depending on your needs

• Expertise on demand: Benefit from the experience of someone who has worked across multiple industries and companies

• Strategic insight: Go beyond bookkeeping to get actionable advice on cash flow, growth planning, funding, and profitability

  
  

For small businesses, a fractional controller often provides exactly the right level of financial leadership—enough to strengthen your business decisions, without straining your payroll.

Which Option Is Right for You?

• Choose a full-time controller if: Your business is large, complex, and requires constant executive-level financial management.

• Choose a fractional controller if: You’re a growing small business that needs strategic financial support, but not on a daily basis—and you’d prefer to invest your resources in growth rather than overhead.

  
  

Final Thoughts

Hiring the right financial partner can be a turning point for your business. If you’re not ready for a full-time controller, a fractional controller gives you access to the same strategic value at a fraction of the cost.

At Olly Consulting, we help small business owners gain clarity and confidence in their numbers, so they can focus on growth. If you’re ready to explore how a fractional CFO or Controller could support your business, get in touch with us here today.