Closed - Fractional CFO project - Finance Systems & Scaling:

Client: A rapidly growing hair care brand, founded by a prominent influencer, currently scaling operations and revenue.
Assignment: Short-term Fractional CFO project to establish and professionalize the finance function, with strong emphasis on cash flow management and financial reporting.
Duration: [e.g., 6-12 months, part-time/flexible]

Objective
To design and implement a scalable finance infrastructure that ensures robust cash flow visibility, supports informed decision-making, and facilitates sustainable growth.

Key Deliverables

1. Cash Flow Management & Reporting:
   • Develop and implement a weekly and monthly cash flow forecasting model.
   • Create detailed cash flow reports (operating, investing, financing activities) to monitor liquidity in real-time.
   • Establish processes for tracking and optimizing working capital (e.g., inventory, receivables, payables).
2. Financial Framework Design:
   • Develop and document core financial processes (order-to-cash, procure-to-pay, financial reporting).
   • Implement a chart of accounts and cost structure aligned with the brand’s business model (e.g., DTC e-commerce, wholesale, influencer collaborations).
3. Systems Implementation:
   • Evaluate and select fit-for-purpose tools (e.g., QuickBooks Online/Xero for accounting, Brightpearl/DEAR for inventory, Power BI/Tableau for reporting).
   • Coordinate systems across sales channels (e.g., Shopify, Amazon) and payment processors to automate cash flow tracking.
4. Reporting & KPIs:
   • Create a monthly reporting package tracking key metrics: CAC, LTV, gross margin, inventory turnover, cash conversion cycle, and burn rate.
   • Build a dashboard for real-time visibility into sales, profitability, inventory health, and cash flow trends.
5. Controls & Compliance:
   • Establish internal controls for revenue recognition, inventory management, and expense approval.
   • Ensure tax compliance (sales tax, VAT, income tax) across operating regions.
6. Scalability Planning:
   • Develop a rolling cash flow forecast model to guide fundraising and investment decisions.
   • Advise on financial implications of expansion (e.g., new product lines, international markets).
7. Team Training:
   • Train existing staff on new processes, tools, and cash flow management best practices.
   • Provide guidance on hiring future finance roles (e.g., accountant, FP&A analyst).