Fractional FD vs full-time FD vs accountant: which do you need?

By Tracey Hargraves ACA · Reviewed 16 October 2026Updated 4 min read

In short

  • An accountant keeps you compliant and looks back at what happened.
  • A fractional FD looks forward: strategy, cash and growth, a few days a month.
  • A full-time FD usually only makes sense for larger businesses.

What an accountant does

Accounts, tax returns, VAT and payroll keep you compliant with HMRC and Companies House.

What a fractional FD adds

Forecasts, KPIs, pricing, funding readiness and a senior sounding board for big decisions, at a level of time that suits an SME.

When to go full-time

Once finance needs daily senior leadership, for example with a large team, investors or complex groups, a full-time FD becomes worth it.

Figures are based on HMRC guidance for the 2026/27 tax year and were checked on 16 October 2026. This guide is general information, not personal advice.

How Acton Cliff can help

Board-level financial thinking, without a full-time salary. Talk it through with Tracey. A ten-minute call is usually enough to work out your next step.

Let's have a proper conversation about your numbers

No jargon, no obligation. Tell us where you are and we'll tell you honestly how we can help.

Prefer email? info@actoncliff.co.uk