The signs
If several of these sound familiar, it's time to talk to an FD:
- Cash surprises
- No forecast
- Margins you can't explain
- Lenders asking for information you don't have
- Decisions made on gut feel
- Rapid growth
- Planning an exit
7 signs your business needs a finance director
By Tracey Hargraves ACA · Reviewed 16 October 2026Updated 4 min read
In short
- Cash is tight even though sales are growing.
- You don't trust your numbers, or they arrive too late to act on.
- You're about to raise finance, hire heavily or sell.
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