Accelerate Growth with Fractional CFO Services in Manchester

Driving Growth in the Northern Powerhouse

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Expert CFOs in Manchester

As Manchester continues to cement its position as the beating heart of the Northern Powerhouse, businesses across the city are seeking strategic financial leadership to navigate growth, challenges, and opportunities. The CFO Centre is proud to have a world-class fractional CFO team in Manchester who deliver services tailored to the unique needs of the diverse local business landscape.

We believe that this is an exciting time for business operating in a city that poised for significant economic growth. Manchester is forecasted to outpace the UK average between 2024 and 2027. A recent EY report into regional economic growth1 predicted that the city will see an annual average growth rate of 2.2% in Gross Value Added (GVA), surpassing the national growth rate of 1.9%. This growth is driven by a diverse economy with a strong emphasis on technology, finance, and creative industries. With experts predicting continued economic growth from now until 2027, Manchester has some exciting opportunities (and challenges) ahead.

Employment in Manchester is forecasted to grow by 1.7% annually, reflecting a healthy job market compared to the North West’s average of 1%. However, this can lead to difficulties in recruitment so addressing skills gaps will be crucial for sustaining growth. Businesses will need to invest in employee training and development but we recognise that this can put a strain on cashflow.

While Manchester leads in tech and finance growth, other sectors like manufacturing will continue to be significant contributors to the economy. All sectors are keen to see ongoing investments in transport and digital infrastructure that will enhance connectivity and support business operations. The economic forecasts and the investments that have been committed make this an exciting time to be leading a business in the North West.

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Discover some of the ways our part-time CFO services in Manchester can help your business

Why Manchester Businesses Choose The CFO Centre

Deep Local Expertise

Our team of seasoned CFOs, led by our Regional Director Jack Coleman, brings not just financial acumen but a profound understanding of Manchester’s business ecosystem. From the thriving tech scene in the Northern Quarter to the manufacturing strongholds in Trafford Park, we speak your language and understand your opportunities. We also have the network you need to collaborate with other northern cities and maximise your economic potential across the region.

Our team of CFOs brings diverse experiences including:

  • Financial services: working with major banks and investment firms to support their clients.
  • Technology: our fractional CFOs serve with businesses ranging from newly invested startups to established tech companies.
  • Creative industries: our team includes fractional CFOs with backgrounds media companies, advertising agencies, and design firms.
  • Manufacturing companies: clients access CFOs with expertise in advanced manufacturing processes.
  • Retail businesses: our CFOs include people who’ve worked with a mix of high street retailers and e-commerce platforms.
  • Healthcare providers: our clients include hospitals, biotech firms, and health tech innovators.

Added to our team “on the ground” in Manchester, our fractional CFOs are part of a 700+ network of CFOs globally which means they are uniquely positioned to help you fulfil your ambitions. Whatever your sector, whatever your stage of business, we will develop a strategic finance blueprint tailored to support your business growth.

Leverage an experienced CFO to capitalise on important growth opportunities

  1. Digital transformation: businesses across various sectors are increasingly adopting digital technologies, creating demand for financial strategies that support innovation.
  2. Sustainability initiatives: with a focus on becoming carbon neutral by 2038, there are opportunities for businesses involved in green technologies and sustainable practices.
  3. Talent development: as businesses expand, there’s a growing need for skilled workers. Companies can capitalise on this by investing in training and development programs.
  4. Public-private collaboration: strengthening partnerships between government and businesses can enhance economic resilience and drive growth initiatives.
  5. Export opportunities: with improved transport links and Manchester Airport’s expansion, businesses can explore international markets more effectively.
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How our hiring process works

Unlock Financial Insights:
Capture the strategic insights that
drive growth and resilience.

Strategic Partnerships:
Specific solutions for precise challenges, catalysing your company's progress.

Achieve Tailored Success:
Steer your business towards its peak performance, guided by expert financial strategy.

Common Questions about hiring a CFO in Manchester

How can I hire a CFO in Manchester?

To hire a CFO in Manchester, start by identifying your business's specific needs and determining whether a part-time or fractional engagement is most suitable. Our process ensures you find a CFO who delivers both strategic and operational support, tailored to your industry and business goals.

What strategic value can a fractional CFO bring to our growing business?

Our CFOs bring high-level strategic planning and execution skills. They can help with financial forecasting, risk management, fundraising strategies, and operational efficiency. Their experience with businesses at various growth stages means they can provide valuable insights to support your company's expansion.

What experience do your CFOs have with international business and export strategies?

Our global footprint uniquely positions us to support international expansion. We have CFOs with experience in various international markets who can provide advice on local business contexts, including tax and legal regulations. This global perspective is invaluable for Manchester businesses looking to expand internationally.

What specific industry experience do your fractional CFOs have, particularly in Manchester's key sectors like technology, finance, or manufacturing?

We have CFOs in Manchester and across the UK with deep experience in all sectors, including technology, finance, manufacturing, and creative industries. Our CFOs understand the unique challenges and opportunities in Manchester's business landscape and can provide industry-specific insights.

What role can a fractional CFO play in our digital transformation efforts?

Many of our CFOs have experience guiding businesses through digital transformations. They can help align your financial strategies with your digital initiatives, ensuring that your investments in technology drive business value and improve financial performance.

How do you ensure a good cultural fit between the fractional CFO and our company?

We pride ourselves on matching the right personality to the right business. Our process involves understanding your company culture, values, and specific needs to ensure we pair you with a CFO who will integrate seamlessly with your team. We believe this cultural fit is crucial for a successful engagement.

How flexible is the engagement? Can we scale the CFO's involvement as our business grows?

Our engagements are incredibly flexible. You can easily scale up or down based on your business needs. Whether you need a CFO for a few days a month or a more intensive engagement, we can adjust accordingly. As your business grows, we can increase involvement or even build a team of CFOs around you to address specific needs.

How can a fractional CFO assist with fundraising and investor relations?

Our CFOs have extensive experience in fundraising and managing investor relations. They can help prepare financial projections, develop pitch decks, and navigate the fundraising process. Additionally, our established network of partners can facilitate access to potential investors and funding sources.

How can a fractional CFO support our sustainability initiatives?

Many of our CFOs have experience in developing and implementing sustainability strategies. They can help align your financial planning with sustainability goals, identify cost-saving opportunities through sustainable practices, and ensure your business is well-positioned to meet Manchester's carbon neutrality targets by 2038.

What are the cost savings compared to hiring a full-time CFO?

Our flexible fractional CFO service model allows you to access top-tier CFO expertise at a fraction of that cost. The exact savings depend on your chosen engagement level, but you'll benefit from senior CFO experience that's typically out of reach for businesses under £50m turnover.