We have placed more Fractional CFOs in 2025 than full-time hires. During this time, we have:

• Received over 400 unique applications from current or aspiring candidates.
• Seen over 80 Fractional CFO appointments across Yorkshire and the East Midlands.

From SaaS start-ups to 100-year-old manufacturers and from VC-backed ventures to family firms, the model is gaining momentum. It is an increasingly regular topic with our network of investors, lenders and advisors – and especially with employers and candidates alike.

Two of the most common questions we are asked by prospective Fractional CFOs or employers considering the option:

Do I need to sign a contract with the recruiter and work with them exclusively?

No!

Some models in the market do set out exclusivity as a requirement—but this runs counter to one of the fundamental appeals of the fractional route: flexibility.

We encourage candidates to build a handful of trusted relationships – with recruiters, investors and advisors. We are always delighted to help our candidates with a few introductions at the outset.

How do you calculate the day rate and the commercial arrangement with the employer?

THERE IS NO ONE-SIZE-FITS-ALL  

Rates should always reflect the specifics of each engagement—duration, days per month, location, and future upside. Some of the most successful arrangements include growth-based bonuses or access to EMI schemes.

Commercial arrangements with employers need to reflect the circumstances and preferences of the business.

e.g. Many start-ups would benefit from the strategic direction of a Fractional CFO but can not always afford a standard recruiter margin on top of the candidate’s rate.

There is always a solution. Every Fractional CFO engagement provides flexibility for the candidate and allows the employer to benefit similarly. Commercial arrangements for engaging a Fractional CFO can include:

• Margin charged on day rate
• One-off introduction fee
• Recurring quarterly contract fees

At Pratap Executive, we work with growing businesses. In many cases, a Fractional CFO placement is just the start—our involvement scales as the business scales, with future appointments across other key functions. This is how we create lasting value for our clients.

“Our business has benefited from our brilliant Fractional CFO, Claire Screeton – she has brought financial discipline to support our growth, was instrumental in our EOT transaction and is key to our strategy and our operations. Hugely valuable lesson for us in our growth journey, and one that has positively influenced the advice we give to other SMEs”

If you are interested in finding out more about the Fractional CFO route for yourself or for your business, please contact me to request a copy of our deck.

You can also read some of our past articles with Mercia Ventures here:

An overview of the Fractional CFO Market: Insights from Mercia Ventures

Fractional CFOs – Explaining the Growing Market

Fractional CFOs – Explaining the Benefits and Opportunities for Finance Leaders

Fractional CFOs – The benefits to businesses