An FD and a CFO will both be qualified accountants with significant experience across a range of companies. The main difference comes in terms of specific experience and areas of focus.
The natural career progression for a qualified accountant tends to be through the Finance Director position to Chief Financial Officer. And with this progression comes more experience and a wider knowledge. The focus goes beyond finance and across the whole business.
In reality, many FDs have these skills too and there are certainly experienced and knowledgeable, forward looking, FDs who can guide you strategically. However, a CFO will be someone who has been there before and can lead from first hand experience.
You can choose whether you want the services of a part time FD or a part time CFO. A CFO will cost you more and you will get a higher level of knowledge and experience with the same levels of commitment, quality and professionalism. An FD may be more suitable if you are in a period of consolidation rather than growth, acquisition or sale.
Each one is a trained, qualified, experienced professional in their field, so you will be getting excellent value with either choice. Often it just comes down to personal chemistry and budget.
Simply let us know the sort of role you want to fill and we'll advise you on the ideal individual for that position. If you want to know what will work most effectively for you then simply call us on 01256 698031 to discuss the best solution.
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The table below outlines some of the key differences between a CFO and an FD. The best ones are able to move seamlessly between the two roles and will provide you with what you need when you need it.
| Chief Financial Officer (CFO) | Finance Director (FD |
| Strategic | Nitty Gritty |
| Governance | Compliance |
| Looking Forward | Looking Back |
| Sales Focus | Cost focus |
| Cash Planning | Cash Management |
| Board reporting | Management reporting |
| Exit Strategies | Accounting Systems |
| Business Partner | Operational Director |
| Challenging | Reporting |
| Protection | Controls |
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If you want to discuss what you need and let us create the best solution for your company then you can contact us on the numbers below.
Tel: 01256 698031
Fax: 01256 698230
Alternatively, send an email to admin@marshallkeen.com