Fixed Term Contract CFOs
Every business reaches points where it needs senior financial leadership but may not require (or be ready for) a permanent appointment. Whether covering maternity, bridging a long recruitment process, or leading a major transformation, a Fixed Term Contract CFO (Chief Financial Officer) is often the most effective solution.
At FD Capital, we specialise in providing highly experienced CFOs on Fixed Term Contracts (FTC) across the UK. Our network of finance leaders brings board-level expertise, investor confidence, and hands-on strategic guidance for exactly the period you need.
This page explores what a Fixed Term CFO is, when to hire one, and how FD Capital can help your business secure the right person quickly.
What is a Fixed Term Contract CFO?
A Fixed Term Contract CFO is a senior finance professional hired for a specific period of time, typically between 6 months and 2 years. Unlike a permanent CFO, their role is defined by the duration of the contract and the specific business objectives they are tasked with delivering.
An FTC CFO:
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Provides board-level financial leadership.
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Oversees finance teams, governance, and reporting.
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Supports fundraising, M&A, and strategic planning.
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Prepares the business for scaling, restructuring, or IPO.
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Steps away once the contract ends, often after ensuring a smooth handover.
Why Hire a Fixed Term CFO?
There are many reasons companies turn to an FTC CFO instead of a permanent appointment:
1. Maternity or Paternity Leave Cover
A business can’t afford to be without a CFO. Hiring on a fixed term contract provides continuity and confidence for staff, investors, and partners.
2. Bridging Recruitment Gaps
Permanent CFO recruitment can take 6–12 months. An FTC CFO ensures the business isn’t left exposed while the search takes place.
3. Mergers, Acquisitions & Exit Planning
FTC CFOs are often brought in to lead high-stakes projects, such as due diligence, integrations, or preparing for sale.
4. Turnaround & Restructuring
In distressed or transitional situations, a CFO with turnaround expertise can stabilise finances, manage stakeholders, and restore confidence.
5. Growth & Scaling
For scale-ups and PE/VC-backed businesses, an FTC CFO can professionalise financial reporting, support fundraising, and build investor trust.
The Benefits of a Fixed Term CFO
Hiring a CFO on a fixed term basis offers several advantages:
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Immediate Expertise – Access seasoned leaders quickly.
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Flexibility – Hire for the exact duration you need.
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Cost-Effective – Avoid the long-term salary, equity, and pension costs of a permanent hire.
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Strategic Focus – Bring in CFOs with experience in your exact challenge (IPO, PE integration, turnaround).
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Stakeholder Confidence – Investors and lenders value the presence of an experienced CFO.
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Smooth Transitions – Ensure no disruption to your finance function during periods of change.
How FD Capital Provides Fixed Term CFOs
Our approach is designed to deliver the right CFO with minimal delay.
Step 1: Needs Analysis
We work with you to define:
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The contract length.
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Key objectives (e.g., fundraising, integration, stabilisation).
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Required sector expertise.
Step 2: Candidate Matching
Within 48 hours, we provide a shortlist of highly relevant CFOs from our UK-wide network.
Step 3: Interview & Selection
You interview, assess, and select the CFO who best aligns with your culture and goals.
Step 4: Onboarding
We ensure a smooth handover so your finance function continues without disruption.
Step 5: Ongoing Support
FD Capital remains in contact, ensuring the contract delivers results.
Fixed Term CFO Assignments – Typical Duration
While contracts vary, typical assignments include:
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6-month contracts – bridging recruitment or project support.
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12-month contracts – maternity cover, growth scaling, or investor support.
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18–24 months – transformation, turnaround, or IPO preparation.
Industries We Serve
Our network includes CFOs with expertise across:
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Private Equity & Venture Capital-backed businesses
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Technology & SaaS
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Healthcare & Life Sciences
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Retail & E-commerce
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Manufacturing & Engineering
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Professional Services
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Energy & Infrastructure
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Non-Profit & Public Sector
FTC CFO vs Interim CFO vs Part-Time CFO
It’s important to understand the distinction:
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Fixed Term Contract CFO – Contracted for a defined period (6–24 months).
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Interim CFO – Short-term, often urgent, stabilisation role.
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Part-Time CFO – Ongoing, flexible days per week/month.
FD Capital helps clients determine the right model for their needs.
Case Studies
Case Study 1: Private Equity Buyout – 9-Month FTC CFO
A PE firm acquired a tech company but lacked a permanent CFO. FD Capital placed an FTC CFO who managed integration, delivered PE-grade reporting, and prepared the company for a permanent appointment.
Case Study 2: Maternity Cover – 12-Month FTC CFO
A large retail business engaged FD Capital to supply a 12-month maternity cover CFO. The FTC CFO maintained investor relations and introduced cashflow forecasting improvements before a smooth handover.
Case Study 3: IPO Preparation – 18-Month FTC CFO
A high-growth SaaS business hired an FTC CFO to lead IPO preparation. The CFO upgraded governance, secured audit readiness, and supported the CEO through the flotation process.
Cost of a Fixed Term Contract CFO
The cost of an FTC CFO depends on:
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Experience and background.
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Sector expertise.
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Location.
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Duration of assignment.
Typical rates range from £800–£1,500 per day, or a fixed monthly fee for longer contracts. FD Capital ensures transparent pricing and the right balance of cost vs. value.
FAQs – Fixed Term CFOs
Our Culture
1. How quickly can an FTC CFO start?
We can place candidates within 1–2 weeks, often faster for urgent cases.
2. Can an FTC CFO transition into a permanent role?
Yes, many clients later make a permanent offer.
3. Do FTC CFOs work remotely?
Both remote and hybrid options are common, depending on your needs.
4. What sectors do FD Capital CFOs cover?
We cover all major UK sectors, from technology to manufacturing.
5. Do PE firms use FTC CFOs?
Yes, private equity and venture capital investors often bring in FTC CFOs to stabilise portfolio companies or lead transformations.
Why Choose FD Capital?
Recruitment is what we do best!
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CFO Specialists – We only recruit CFOs, FDs, and senior finance leaders.
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National Network – From London to Manchester, Birmingham to Edinburgh.
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Investor-Trusted – Many of our CFOs are PE/VC-experienced.
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Proven Results – Placements across multiple industries and situations.
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Flexible Solutions – Interim, part-time, and fixed term options available.
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