In the trades world, chaos is normal: juggling crews, chasing payments, managing materials, and trying to make payroll. Most construction and service-based business owners are stretched so thin that finances fall into a reactive pattern — not strategic.
That’s where a Part-Time CFO comes in. And for many growing trades businesses, this role isn’t just nice to have — it’s the difference between surviving and scaling.
What Is a Part-Time CFO?
A Part-Time CFO — also called a Fractional CFO — is a senior financial expert who works with your business on a limited basis. Rather than hiring a full-time executive, you get CFO-level strategy and insights without the full-time salary.
Key Responsibilities:
- Cash flow forecasting and planning
- Pricing strategy and job costing review
- Financial reporting and KPI tracking
- Budget creation and monitoring
- Profitability improvement
- Strategic planning for growth
This isn’t bookkeeping. And it’s not just cleaning up QuickBooks. A Part-Time CFO sits at the leadership table — even if it’s just once a week or once a month.
Why Trades and Construction Businesses Struggle Without One
Most trades owners didn’t get into business to manage spreadsheets. And most don’t have the time or background to build a forward-looking financial plan. That leads to:
- ❌ Pricing work based on gut, not margins
- ❌ Scrambling for cash when payroll hits
- ❌ Guessing at which jobs are actually profitable
- ❌ Making major hires or purchases with no forecasting
These are real threats to growth — and they compound as your business grows.
A Part-Time CFO brings structure to your financial chaos and helps you stop running blind.
When Is the Right Time to Hire One?
Here are some common signs your business is ready:
- Revenue is over $750K/year and growing fast
- You’re not sure if you’re pricing jobs correctly
- Payroll, overhead, or taxes catch you off guard
- You feel like you’re flying blind with money
- You want to grow, but don’t know if you can afford to
If any of that sounds familiar, it’s time to stop guessing.
How It Works (Without Breaking the Bank)
Hiring a full-time CFO can cost $150K+ per year. But most small trades businesses don’t need someone full-time. Instead, a Part-Time CFO might work:
- 📅 1–4 days/month on a recurring schedule
- 💼 Focused on strategic finance, not admin tasks
- 💵 Flat monthly fee or retainer model
You get the benefit of a high-level advisor — with a clear scope and cost.
Real Results: What You Can Expect
Every business is different, but here’s what Part-Time CFO support typically unlocks:
- 📈 Clear cash flow plan so you’re never caught off guard
- 🔧 Job costing that actually reflects profit (not just revenue)
- 📊 Monthly financials that tell a story, not just numbers
- 🎯 Growth plans that fit your cash, goals, and team
- 💵 Owner pay that’s steady — not leftover scraps
This isn’t theory. It’s practical, boots-on-the-ground financial strategy — built for contractors, service businesses, and trades pros.
Final Word: Steer Your Numbers or Get Steamrolled
Busy doesn’t mean profitable. And guessing doesn’t scale.
A Part-Time CFO helps you take control of your numbers — so they stop controlling you. Whether you’re looking to stabilize your operations, grow your team, or prep for a future sale, strategic financial support is a game-changer.
🚀 Ready to See What a Part-Time CFO Can Do for You?
Schedule a Free Financial Clarity Call and get a custom roadmap for your business.
Let’s build the financial foundation your business deserves.