FRACTIONAL CONTROLLER

A fractional controller is a senior-level accounting professional who provides part-time or outsourced financial oversight for companies that need expert accounting leadership without hiring a full-time controller. This flexible engagement model gives small to mid-sized businesses access to highly skilled financial guidance—typically reserved for larger organizations—at a fraction of the cost.
Fractional controllers are responsible for the accuracy, integrity, and efficiency of your accounting operations. They work alongside your team (or independently) to improve internal controls, implement systems, manage financial reporting, and ensure compliance with tax and regulatory requirements.
Whether you’re growing rapidly, experiencing accounting challenges, or preparing for an audit, a fractional controller can bring the clarity and structure your financial processes need to support your business goals.
We provide Controller services from our base in Sioux City, and beyond!
Iowa
Hawarden
Orange City
Rock Valley
Rock Rapids
Sac City
Sheldon
Sioux Center
Sioux City
Sibley
Spirit Lake
Nebraska
Wayne
South Sioux City
South Dakota
Dakota Dunes
Elk Point
Sioux Falls
Vermillion
Yankton
What Does a Fractional Controller Do?
Oversight of Daily Accounting Operations
Manage and supervise accounts payable and receivable processes
Oversee payroll, bank reconciliations, and month-end close procedures
Ensure general ledger accuracy and proper classification of transactions
Accurate and Timely Financial Reporting
Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements
Establish accounting calendars and reporting deadlines
Generate financial packages and dashboards for leadership and stakeholders
Internal Controls and Process Improvement
Develop and enforce internal controls to minimize risk and fraud
Standardize accounting policies and procedures
Automate manual workflows to improve accuracy and reduce close time
Audit & Compliance Readiness
Prepare audit-ready financial records and reports
Support external auditors with reconciliations and documentation
Ensure GAAP or IFRS compliance as needed
Support for Strategic Finance Initiatives
Assist CFOs or owners with forecasting and budgeting
Support ERP and accounting software implementation or upgrades
Evaluate financial trends and recommend improvements
Fractional Controller vs. Full-Time Controller
Aspect |
Full-Time Controller |
Fractional Controller |
Engagement |
40+ hours/week |
10–30 hours/week, flexible |
Cost |
Salary + Benefits |
Hourly or retainer-based fee |
Hiring Process |
Full recruitment/onboarding |
Rapid deployment |
Commitment |
Long-term employee |
Short- or medium-term support |
Scalability |
Fixed capacity |
Scales with business needs |

When to Hire a Fractional Controller
Many companies outgrow their bookkeeper or accounting manager but aren’t yet ready to bring on a full-time controller. A fractional controller is the ideal solution if:
- You’re struggling with messy books or inconsistent reporting
- You need GAAP-compliant financials or audit support
- You’re scaling quickly and need better controls and systems
- You’re preparing for a loan, investor pitch, or acquisition
- You want to elevate your finance function without full-time overhead
Cost Savings: Get high-level accounting leadership without a six-figure salary
Financial Accuracy: Reduce errors and close your books with confidence
Faster Close Cycles: Streamlined processes mean quicker access to decision-ready data
Audit Preparedness: Avoid surprises by ensuring financials are always audit-ready
Improved Internal Controls: Reduce fraud and inefficiencies through stronger oversight
ERP & Tech Expertise: Get help with accounting system implementation or optimization
On-Demand Flexibility: Engage only when needed—monthly, quarterly, or for specific projects
How CFO Next Delivers Fractional Controller Services
Accounting Health Check
We start with a review of your books, systems, processes, and documentation. This helps us identify gaps and opportunities to strengthen your accounting function.
Tailored Engagement Plan
We develop a roadmap based on your immediate needs and long-term goals—whether it’s cleaning up your chart of accounts, standardizing reporting, or implementing internal controls.
Reliable Ongoing Support
Your fractional controller manages your financial close, generates reports, improves processes, and supports your team weekly or monthly depending on your plan.
Process & System Upgrades
We help modernize your accounting with automation tools, dashboards, and better software to support growth and efficiency.
Scalability & Transition Support
As your business grows, we ensure a smooth transition—whether you hire a full-time controller or scale into CFO support.
Client Results from Fractional Controller Engagements
Startup SaaS Company: Reduced month-end close from 15 to 5 days with improved workflows
Retail Chain: Cleaned up 2 years of backlogged reconciliations and passed an audit with zero findings
Construction Firm: Implemented job-costing and reduced bookkeeping errors by 40%
Partner With CFO Next for Fractional Controller Services
At CFO Next, we match your business with experienced, hands-on fractional controllers who know how to build reliable, scalable accounting operations. Whether you need help closing your books, preparing for growth, or staying compliant, we provide expert guidance without the cost of a full-time hire.
Ready to bring confidence and clarity to your accounting?
Contact us today to schedule a free financial assessment and see how our fractional controller services can support your business success.
Elevate Your Financial Leadership with CFO Next
At CFO Next, we specialize in delivering fractional CFO services that propel organizations toward their strategic objectives. Our roster of veteran CFOs brings deep operational know-how, financial rigor, and a results-driven mindset to every engagement. Whether you’re laying the groundwork for rapid scale, optimizing current performance, or preparing for a critical liquidity event, we offer the expertise—and the flexibility—you need to succeed.
Ready to harness the power of strategic financial leadership?
Contact CFO Next today to schedule a complimentary financial health assessment and discover how a fractional CFO can accelerate your journey to sustainable growth.