Background: High Demand but Gaps in Finance Capability
An innovative, family-run business producing specialised products for the global agricultural market was experiencing high demand in a niche sector. Despite this, the owners recognised the need for senior-level finance input to help manage growth effectively.
The Underlying Issues
The business faced:
- The need to stabilise and rebuild the finance team following a key departure.
- Outdated systems and processes.
- Poor and incomplete financial management information.
- Changing assumptions in a volatile market.
- Supplier uncertainty and credit risk.
- Limited understanding of costs and infrequent pricing reviews.
- A concerning cash flow position.
How Headstar Stepped In
A Headstar Fractional CFO quickly developed a strong working relationship with the business directors to understand the key issues and to support them to adopt the following solutions:
- Maintain business operations while simplifying systems and reporting processes.
- Review finance team structure and guide recruitment of capable finance expertise.
- Introduce product and pricing analysis for accurate management information.
- Build stronger supplier relationships and reduce credit risk.
- Provide strategic-level financial leadership and act as a sounding board for future plans.
- Support the business in managing growth while sustaining a healthy cash flow.
The Impact
- Recruitment & mentoring – Built a finance team capable of delivering accurate forecasts and budgetary control.
- Accurate management information – Introduced and validated pricing and margin analysis by product group.
- Strategic leadership – Provided objective, high-level financial insight for forward strategy.
- Improved systems control – Implemented credit management and pricing strategies to support cash flow.
In the Words of the Client
“The Headstar Fractional CFO’s no-nonsense approach has been a breath of fresh air for our team. Getting to the crux of finance issues quickly and dealing with matters decisively has allowed me to focus on other areas of the business, and has contributed to building the culture we need for future success.” – Managing Director
Find Out More
To learn how a Headstar Fractional CFO could help your business manage growth, improve financial visibility, and protect cash flow, visit our services page or get in touch with the Headstar team.
