How Much Does a Fractional CFO Cost? Complete 2024 Pricing Guide

Fractional CFO Pricing Models

Retainer-Based Pricing (Most Common)

UK Market: Starter £1,500-£3,500/month (5-10 hours/week), Standard £3,500-£6,000/month (10-15 hours/week), Comprehensive £6,000-£12,000/month (15-25 hours/week).

US Market: Starter $3,000-$5,000/month, Standard $5,000-$10,000/month, Comprehensive $10,000-$20,000/month.

Hourly Pricing

UK Rates: Junior £75-£125/hour, Mid-Level £125-£175/hour, Senior £175-£300/hour. US Rates: Junior $100-$175/hour, Mid-Level $175-$250/hour, Senior $250-$400/hour.

Factors That Affect Pricing

• Business Complexity - Multi-entity structures and international operations
• Growth Stage - Growth-stage companies need more intensive support
• Specific Deliverables - M&A, fundraising, or system implementations
• CFO Experience Level - Big Four alumni typically command 20-30% premium
• Geographic Location - London and NYC/SF carry significant premiums

The ROI of Fractional CFO Services

• Cash flow improvement: 15-30% improvement in cash flow management
• Cost reduction: Financial analysis typically reveals 5-15% in savings
• Better funding outcomes: Professional preparation increases success rates by 40-60%
• Time savings: Founders report saving 10-20 hours/week