Running a growing construction company means your financial decisions get heavier — and riskier. You’ve moved past the “just get the job done” phase. Now you’re asking:
Who should I trust to help me manage the money?
Should you hire a full-time CFO?
Or is outsourcing smarter?
Let’s break it down so you can decide what fits your business right now.
🔍 What Does a CFO Actually Do?
A Chief Financial Officer (CFO) helps you:
- See where your money’s going (and why it’s leaking)
- Plan for cash flow across busy and slow seasons
- Analyze job-level profitability
- Make smart hiring, equipment, and pricing decisions
- Forecast for growth — without running out of cash
Whether you hire in-house or outsource, these are the outcomes you should expect.
🏢 In-House CFO: When It Makes Sense
Best for: $10M+ construction companies with multiple crews, departments, and constant cash movement.
Pros:
- They’re always on site, fully dedicated to your business.
- You get instant access to financial answers throughout the day.
- They can lead a full internal accounting team.
Cons:
- $150K–$250K/year salary + benefits — big cost commitment.
- Recruiting the right CFO with construction experience is tough.
- You’re locked into a long-term hire before proving the ROI.
🧾 Outsourced CFO: A Smarter Option for Most Contractors
Best for: $1M–$10M construction businesses looking for strategic financial guidance without the full-time price tag.
Pros:
- Pay only for what you need — fractional hours, fixed projects, or monthly plans.
- Fast access to construction-specific expertise.
- You get forecasting, job costing, cash flow help — without hiring full-time.
- Scales with your business as you grow.
Cons:
- Not physically in your office — needs regular check-ins.
- May require solid bookkeeping already in place.
- Some firms focus only on reporting — make sure you choose one that offers strategy.
🛠️ How to Decide What’s Right for You
Ask yourself:
- Do you need daily access, or monthly strategy?
- Can you afford a six-figure salary right now?
- Are you growing fast and unsure how to manage the money?
- Do you need help setting up systems before you scale?
If you’re not ready to commit to a full-time hire — but you do need help getting your financials under control — an outsourced CFO may be your best next move.
📌 Want a Full Breakdown of Outsourced CFO Services?
Check out our full guide here:
👉 Outsourced CFO Services: The Smartest Way to Grow a Construction Business Without Hiring Full-Time
👷♂️ Final Word
You don’t have to figure out your company’s financials alone.
Start with what fits your size, budget, and growth stage.
And if you’re unsure?
💬 Book a Free Financial Check-Up
Let’s talk through your business and see what kind of CFO support makes the most sense — no pressure.