Small businesses today often face financial struggles in comparison to larger organizations with more substantial resources, making it challenging for them to attain success in the market. To reduce expenses, many business owners try to handle their finances on their own. However, overseeing a company’s finances without the necessary expertise can be an overwhelming and intricate endeavour. To address this challenge, several small business owners prefer to outsource their financial management to experts. By hiring a Chief Financial Officer (CFO), small businesses can improve their efficiency in managing financial transactions and investment risks.
For all types of businesses, having a Chief Financial Officer (CFO) can be highly advantageous. However, for small businesses with limited financial resources, it can be challenging to determine if they can afford to hire a CFO. Therefore, it is crucial to evaluate the benefits of having a CFO and explore the possibility of hiring a virtual CFO for the organization. A professional CFO can guarantee the financial wellbeing of the company, granting the business a competitive edge in the market. Moreover, employing a virtual CFO can reduce costs as it negates the need to spend on office space and other related expenses. Ultimately, it could be a prudent decision for any small business to recruit a CFO, whether in-house or virtually.
Roles and Responsibilities of a Chief Financial Officer
The role of the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) in a company is to ensure the financial stability of the organization. This involves overseeing the inflow and outflow of funds, evaluating the financial state of the business, and devising strategies for the future. Ultimately, the CFO bears the responsibility of securing the company’s financial well-being for the long term, and must take all necessary measures to achieve this objective.
Despite being part of the third-highest tier in a company’s organizational structure, with the senior executive status that comes with it, the average yearly salary of a Chief Financial Officer (CFO) is a substantial $366,950. As a result, it may be difficult for many small businesses to afford a full-time CFO. Nonetheless, there is no need for disappointment. Many CFOs offer advisory services that can still provide your business with their expertise, without requiring a full-time commitment.
The Importance of Hiring a Chief Financial Officer and Their Role in a Company
Unless you are a financial expert, managing your company’s finances alone is not advisable, as a financial miscalculation could potentially cause irreversible harm to your business. Yahoo serves as a prime example of this. Following the rejection of a $45 billion acquisition proposal by Microsoft in 2008, the company gradually declined until they were willing to accept any offer to avoid complete financial failure. To prevent such a situation, it is recommended that businesses hire a Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to evaluate their financial stability and provide guidance on how to minimize losses.
For companies with a global presence, a Chief Financial Officer (CFO) can offer valuable guidance in selecting the most advantageous trade finance solution to minimize the risks associated with foreign exchange and procurement financing fluctuations. Furthermore, a CFO can evaluate the feasibility of a new project or campaign for a small business by analyzing its costs and potential returns. Additionally, a CFO can provide recommendations on how to streamline the company’s capital structure, explore various debtor financing options, assess potential investments, and efficiently manage its cash flow.
Hiring a Remote Chief Financial Officer
It is becoming increasingly evident that having an on-site Chief Financial Officer (CFO) is not always a realistic option. Fortunately, it is possible to benefit from the expertise of a qualified CFO without incurring the costs associated with a traditional full-time hire. With advancements in technology such as fast Internet connectivity, hiring a CFO to work remotely is a viable option, resulting in significant savings on labor and overhead expenses. Therefore, recruiting a remote CFO can be a much more cost-effective solution than employing a local CFO.
Hiring a Chief Financial Officer (CFO) on a full-time basis includes covering the expenses of their salary, benefits, and other overhead costs. In contrast, with a remote CFO, companies can receive the same level of financial guidance without having to commit to a long-term contract. This can be a more cost-effective alternative for businesses, allowing them to benefit from the expertise of a CFO as and when necessary.
Related read: Hiring an Exceptional Virtual CTO
Selecting the Right Consultant for Your Business
Small business owners may be drawn to the cheapest option when selecting a Chief Financial Officer, but hiring unqualified personnel can be a highly risky decision. It is always better to invest in specialized advice rather than rely on potentially inadequate guidance. When seeking a Chief Financial Officer, it is vital to verify their credentials and evaluate their proficiency in accounting and finance, as well as their general education and professional background.
Furthermore, it is crucial to determine if the CFO works on a fee-or-commission basis. For instance, fee-based CFO services involve paying a quarterly fee for the CFO’s time and expertise. Additionally, you should inquire about any initial retainer payment required by the financial advisor you are considering. Additionally, it would be helpful to determine whether they have experience working with companies of your caliber. This is relevant because CFOs who have worked with multi-billion dollar businesses may charge higher rates for their services.
Access to diverse expertise is crucial for businesses of all sizes. Therefore, it is highly advisable to hire a Chief Financial Planner (CFP), as this title indicates that the individual has met additional criteria in terms of experience, training, testing, and ethics.
Numerous small business owners find it challenging to handle their businesses’ financial aspects and tend to take on the responsibility themselves instead of seeking the expertise of an accountant or financial advisor. However, if you lack the required financial skills and knowledge, it is wise to seek professional assistance. It is crucial to remember that having a Chief Financial Officer (CFO) does not necessarily have to be an expensive endeavor.
