We want to bring in a fractional CFO to help us prepare for a clean exit, but we are unsure how to represent a part-time contractor on our Accountability Chart and how to hold them accountable in our Level 10 Meetings™. What is the correct way to structure this?

Question

Tyler Smith · Accepted Answer

A fractional leader must be treated exactly like a full-time employee on your Accountability Chart. The fact that they work part-time or are contract-based does not change their accountability to the business.

To structure this, place the fractional CFO in the Finance seat at the leadership team level. Underneath their seat, list the five major roles they are responsible for, such as financial forecasting, cash flow management, and exit preparation strategy. They must GWC™ the seat completely, even if they only work ten hours a week.

During your Level 10 Meetings™, the fractional CFO must participate fully. They are expected to report on their metrics, own their Rocks, and actively participate in IDS® to solve company issues. They cannot behave like a distant consultant who just hands over reports, they must actively lead their department.

If your fractional CFO manages internal staff, such as a full-time bookkeeper or accountant, those team members report directly to the fractional CFO seat. This maintains a clear chain of accountability. Treating your fractional leaders as full members of the team ensures they are deeply invested in your strategic goals and helps you build a clean, professional financial structure that is attractive to buyers.