Fractional vs. Full-Time CFO Cost Calculator
Add up everything a full-time CFO really costs, and compare it with a fractional CFO's flat monthly fee.
How the comparison works
- Full-time, later years = salary × (1 + bonus % + taxes and benefits %) + other yearly costs.
- Full-time, year one = later years + the one-time recruiting cost.
- Fractional, per year = flat monthly fee × 12.
Cost is half the decision
The right answer depends on the work. A fractional CFO fits when you need senior judgment on pricing, cash, lenders and big decisions, but not a full-time executive. A full-time CFO fits when the role needs someone in the building every day. Our fractional vs. full-time CFO guide walks through the signs, and how our pricing works explains our flat monthly fee.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a full-time CFO really cost a manufacturer?
More than the salary. Add bonus, payroll taxes, benefits, recruiting fees and the software and support the role needs. The calculator adds these up from your own figures so you can see the full annual cost.
How is a fractional CFO usually paid?
At Accounovation, every engagement is a flat monthly fee agreed after we review your books, with no hourly billing. Other firms bill hourly or by project, so ask any provider how they charge before you compare.
Is cost the only thing to compare?
No. Look at the work you need done. A business that needs someone full time to run a large finance team, raise capital often or manage several entities may need a full-time CFO. Many $3M–$30M manufacturers need senior judgment a few days a month, plus a reliable close underneath it.
Where do the example numbers come from?
They are placeholders to show how the calculator works, not a quote or a market survey. Replace them with the salary you would actually offer and the fee in any proposal you receive.
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