This Controller Part Time To Full Time Remote position at Rr Finance And Operations Llc has been filled. Here's what you should know about similar Fractional Controller roles in the market.
A Fractional Controller is a senior accounting executive who manages the monthly financial close, maintains accounting policies, builds financial controls, prepares for audits, and oversees the accounting team on a part-time basis. Where a CFO is strategic and forward-looking, a Controller is operational and accuracy-focused: they own the books and ensure financial reporting is correct, timely, and GAAP-compliant.
A typical week includes leading or reviewing the close cadence, reconciling key accounts, reviewing journal entries from staff accountants, preparing financial statements and management reports, coordinating with the CFO on technical accounting matters, and responding to auditor or tax preparer requests. Hours spike around month-end and quarter-end close cycles and during audit fieldwork.
Companies in the $2M-$30M revenue range with a bookkeeper or junior accounting staff but no senior accounting leader. Common triggers include slow or unreliable monthly close, upcoming first-time audit, fundraising or acquisition that requires clean books, ERP implementation, or PE-backed companies needing post-acquisition accounting discipline. Also common for nonprofits and family offices with complex reporting needs but limited finance budget.
Fractional Controller demand has grown alongside fractional CFO demand. Many companies start with a fractional CFO, then realize the CFO is spending too much time on close-related work that a Controller should own. Adding a fractional Controller frees the CFO for strategic finance while the Controller owns operational accounting. The model is especially efficient because Controllers often work alongside in-house bookkeepers, providing senior oversight rather than replacing existing capacity.
Financial leadership roles span FP&A, controller functions, treasury management, and strategic finance advisory.
Fractional Controllers typically have 10-20 years of accounting experience with prior Controller or Assistant Controller roles. Common backgrounds include Big 4 audit (audit seniors or managers who moved into industry), corporate accounting leadership at mid-market companies, and SaaS or manufacturing controllership. CPA license is a near-baseline expectation. The transition to fractional often happens mid-career when accountants want portfolio careers across multiple companies.
When hiring a fractional controller, look for candidates who have done the specific work your company needs, not just general leadership experience. The best fractional executives have built the systems and processes you need at similar-stage companies.
Ask for references from companies at your stage and size. A fractional executive who excelled at a Fortune 500 may not be the right fit for a 20-person startup, and vice versa. Industry experience matters less than stage experience in most fractional engagements.
Set clear deliverables and timelines upfront. Fractional engagements work best when both sides agree on specific outcomes, weekly time commitment, and how success will be measured. Avoid open-ended advisory arrangements without concrete goals.
A Fractional Controller is a senior accounting executive who manages the monthly financial close, maintains accounting policies, builds financial controls, prepares for audits, and oversees the accounting team on a part-time basis. Where a CFO is strategic and forward-looking, a Controller is operational and accuracy-focused: they own the books and ensure financial reporting is correct, timely, and GAAP-compliant.
Typical Fractional Controller compensation ranges from $125-$250/hr hourly or $5,000-$12,000/mo on a monthly retainer. Rates vary based on industry, company stage, scope of work, and the executive's experience level.
Most Fractional Controller engagements run 15-25 hrs/week per week, with typical engagement durations of 6-18 months. Hours can flex based on project demands, with some periods requiring more intensive involvement.
Companies in the $2M-$30M revenue range with a bookkeeper or junior accounting staff but no senior accounting leader. Common triggers include slow or unreliable monthly close, upcoming first-time audit, fundraising or acquisition that requires clean books, ERP implementation, or PE-backed companies needing post-acquisition accounting discipline. Also common for nonprofits and family offices with complex reporting needs but limited finance budget.
Key skills for a Fractional Controller include: Monthly close management, GAAP accounting and policy design, Internal financial controls (COSO, SOX-style), Audit preparation and coordination, Revenue recognition (ASC 606), Multi-entity consolidation. The right mix depends on your company's specific needs and stage.
