Stop Searching for a Unicorn: The Truth About Hiring a Fractional FD

When business owners realise they need financial expertise to support their growth, their instinct is often to search for a finance director with industry-specific experience. Someone who has ‘been there, done that’ in their exact sector. They dream of a unicorn – an FD who has worked in their precise niche, knows their business model inside out, and can hit the ground running on day one.

But truth bomb: That unicorn doesn’t exist. 

And even if they did, they’re probably not what you actually need.

Experience Matters, But Adaptability Is Key

A highly experienced finance director has spent decades working across multiple businesses, industries, and challenges. Their expertise isn’t limited to a single sector – they’re experts in financial strategy, problem-solving, and adapting to different business models.

Finance professionals at this level don’t just rely on prior knowledge; they know how to assess a business quickly, identify key financial drivers, and implement strategies that make a real impact. They’re not learning your industry from scratch – they’re applying tried-and-tested financial principles in a way that works for your business.

The Real Qualities You Should Be Looking For

Rather than trying to find a fractional FD who has worked in your specific industry, focus on the characteristics that will truly add value to your business:

• Strategic Thinking: Can they see the bigger picture and guide you toward sustainable growth?
• Commercial Awareness: Do they understand how financial decisions impact profitability and long-term success?
• Problem-Solving Ability: Can they quickly assess challenges and implement effective solutions?
• Communication Skills: Will they make finance accessible, ensuring you truly understand your numbers?
• Values and Cultural Fit: Do they align with your company’s ethos and way of working?

An FD who ticks these boxes will be far more valuable than someone with narrow industry-specific experience. The right fractional FD will take the time to learn about your business, immerse themselves in your goals, and provide insights that help you make better, more informed decisions. And they’ll be able to do that pretty quickly!

The Pitfall of Over-Specialisation

Many business owners think that an FD who has only ever worked in their industry is the best choice. But consider this: If they’ve only worked within one sector, how adaptable are they? Have they had exposure to a variety of challenges, or have they simply followed the same processes repeatedly?

A fractional FD who has worked across multiple industries brings fresh perspectives, innovative solutions, and a broader commercial outlook. They won’t just apply ‘how things have always been done’ – they’ll bring best practices from different sectors and tailor them to your business.

What’s the Real Risk?

Some SME owners hesitate to hire a fractional FD because they worry that someone without direct sector experience won’t ‘get’ their business. But let’s flip that concern on its head: What’s the bigger risk – hiring someone who fits a narrow industry profile but lacks the ability to drive change? Or bringing in a strategic finance leader who can adapt, challenge assumptions, and help your business grow?

A great fractional FD doesn’t need to have worked in your exact sector to make a significant impact. They just need the skills, expertise, and mindset to apply financial strategy effectively. And that’s exactly what an experienced fractional FD delivers.

Ready to Find the Right FD for Your Business?

If you’re ready to stop searching for a unicorn and start looking for a finance expert who can truly help your business thrive, let’s talk. A fractional FD could be the missing piece in your business strategy, bringing clarity, control, and confidence to your financial decisions.

Get in touch today to find out how the right fractional FD can transform your business.