Fractional CFO (Client Facing) - part time

The Fractional CFO serves as a strategic financial partner to multiple client organizations (mainly nonprofits), providing high-level financial oversight, insight, and direction. This role goes beyond traditional financial management to proactively identify gaps, recommend solutions, and guide clients toward sustainable growth and operational excellence.

This individual acts as a trusted advisor to clients while also leading and mentoring internal team members to ensure high-quality execution of financial operations and deliverables. The position is for no more than 5-10 hours per week, is virtual, and reports directly to the Chief Operating Officer.

Essential Functions

Client Partnership & Strategic Advisory

• Serve as the primary financial partner for a portfolio of clients, building strong, trust-based relationships
• Lead regular client meetings to review financial performance, risks, and opportunities
• Translate financial data into clear, actionable insights and strategic recommendations
• Identify organizational gaps and propose value-added solutions aligned with client goals
• Support clients in setting financial priorities and long-term planning strategies
• Present financial reports and insights to client Boards of Directors
• Support board-level financial discussions, including budgeting, forecasting, and strategic decision-making
• Partner with Executive Directors and leadership teams to prepare for board meetings and financial presentations

Financial Oversight & Planning

• Oversee and guide the annual budgeting process across client organizations
• Monitor budget-to-actual performance and recommend forecast adjustments
• Develop and maintain cash flow projections and financial models
• Coordinate and improve financial planning processes and timelines
• Ensure alignment between financial strategy and operational execution

Reporting & Analysis

• Prepare and present customized financial reports, including:
  • Budget vs. actual analysis
  • Cash flow reporting
  • Grant and fund tracking (restricted vs. unrestricted)
• Ensure reports are accurate, timely, and tailored to client needs
• Provide deeper financial analysis to support decision-making

Team Leadership & Development

• Supervise and mentor Finance Managers and Controllers
• Provide clear direction on client priorities and deliverables
• Review work for accuracy, completeness, and strategic alignment
• Support team development through coaching, training, and feedback
• Serve as an internal resource and escalation point for complex financial issues

Value-Add Projects & Problem Solving

• Proactively identify opportunities for process improvement and efficiency gains
• Lead or execute special projects based on client needs, including:
  • Systems optimization (e.g., Stripe, PayPal, Shopify integrations)
  • Financial infrastructure improvements
  • Process redesign and documentation
• Troubleshoot financial and operational challenges across client environments

Compliance & Specialized Expertise

• Manage and oversee financial reporting for federally sponsored programs and government funding (state and federal)
• Ensure compliance with applicable regulations and reporting requirements
• Support clients with financial considerations related to land, property, and capital assets
• Maintain strong working knowledge of nonprofit financial management best practices

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required
• Master’s degree in Business Administration, Accounting, or Finance preferred
• CPA license a plus
• 8–10+ years of progressive experience in financial management
• Demonstrated experience in nonprofit finance required
• Strong experience with QuickBooks Online (and related financial systems)
• Strong experience in creating and presenting financial presentations
• Experience managing multiple clients or entities simultaneously
• Knowledge of grant accounting, fund accounting, and government funding requirements
• Proven ability to lead teams and manage workflows across multiple projects

Core Competencies

• Strategic thinking and problem-solving
• Client relationship management and communication
• Leadership and team development
• Financial analysis and forecasting
• High attention to detail with the ability to see the big picture
• Adaptability and willingness to “roll up sleeves” when needed

What Success Looks Like in This Role

• Clients view you as a trusted advisor, not just a service provider
• Financial insights lead to improved decision-making and organizational outcomes
• Internal team members feel supported, guided, and developed
• Processes become more efficient and scalable across client engagements
• Value-added recommendations are consistently identified and implemented

Position Characteristics

• Client-facing, relationship-driven role
• Manages multiple client engagements simultaneously
• Balances strategic oversight with hands-on involvement when needed
• Collaborative role bridging clients and internal teams