Hiring a fractional CFO is one of the highest-leverage moves a growth-stage company can make. This engagement template gives you a structured framework to define scope, set expectations, and measure outcomes — so both sides are aligned from day one.
Scope of Work
- Monthly close oversight and P&L review
- Cash flow forecasting (rolling 13-week model)
- Board and investor reporting package
- Annual budget and operating plan
- Fundraising support (financial model, data room, investor diligence)
- Finance team management (if applicable)
- ERP/accounting system oversight
Engagement Structure
- Commitment: [X] hours/month or [X] days/month
- Weekly sync: 30-min CEO/CFO alignment call
- Monthly: Board-ready finance package delivered by [date]
- Quarterly: OKR review and reforecast
- Annual: Budget and strategic plan presentation
- Ad hoc: Deal support, lender negotiations, M&A diligence
Deliverables (Month 1)
- Chart of accounts audit and cleanup
- Current financial model assessment
- Cash runway analysis
- Finance team capacity review
- Priority roadmap for first 90 days
Success Metrics
- Days to close monthly books (target: < 5 business days)
- Forecast accuracy (target: ±10% of actuals)
- Board package delivery on time
- Fundraise timeline and terms achieved
- Finance process maturity score (quarterly review)