Interim CFO and interim finance director: when you need one and how to find one
An interim CFO or interim finance director steps into a senior finance role for a defined, often intensive mission: covering a sudden departure, leading a fundraise, a turnaround or an ERP rollout. Here is when to use one and how to find the right profile fast.
What is interim finance management?
An interim CFO is a seasoned finance leader who takes the reins of a critical function for a fixed period (typically 4 to 12 months), usually full-time, to secure a situation or drive a transformation, then hand over.
When do you need an interim CFO?
- Vacancy: a sudden departure to cover immediately.
- Major operation: fundraising, M&A, carve-out.
- Turnaround: cash pressure, restructuring, performance plan.
- Transformation: ERP implementation, reporting overhaul.
Agency or platform?
Traditional interim management agencies add a large margin (often 20 to 40%). A specialist platform like FINCY gives you direct access to vetted interim finance leaders, full price transparency and 0% consultant commission — same rigour, no heavy intermediary margin.
What does it cost?
Interim CFO day rates run £600 to £1,400 in 2026 depending on seniority and complexity. See our cost guide.
Frequently asked questions
Interim vs fractional CFO — what is the difference?
Interim is temporary and intensive (often full-time, for a specific situation). Fractional is ongoing and lighter, for a permanent need.
How long is an interim mission?
Usually 4 to 12 months — long enough to secure the situation and organise handover.
Tell us what you need on FINCY: finance consultants vetted one by one, matching profiles within 48 hours, 0% consultant commission.