Frequently Asked
Questions

A Virtual or Fractional CFO is a senior financial executive who provides CFO-level expertise on a part-time or flexible basis. Instead of hiring a full-time CFO at significant cost, you get access to the same high-level strategic financial leadership and experience when you need it — without the permanent overhead of a full-time hire.

An accountant primarily focuses on compliance, tax, and recording historical financial data — looking backwards. A Fractional CFO focuses on the future: strategic planning, cash flow management, growth advisory, scenario modeling, and helping you make better business decisions. We work alongside your existing accountant to provide the strategic layer they typically don't offer.

Common trigger points include: when revenue is growing but cash is always tight; when you're planning to scale, hire, or enter new markets; when you're preparing to raise capital or seek investment; when you need clearer financial reporting for your board or stakeholders; or simply when you need a trusted financial expert in your corner to help navigate major decisions.

Not necessarily. While many clients are in the $1M–$30M revenue range, what matters more is the complexity of your financial situation and the ambition of your goals. Businesses with high growth potential, multiple revenue streams, or significant investment requirements often benefit from fractional CFO services regardless of current revenue.

Engagements are structured around your needs. Typically, we begin with a strategic onboarding and financial deep-dive, followed by regular monthly strategy sessions, ongoing financial forecasting and reporting, and being available for questions and decisions as they arise. The cadence and scope depend on your chosen service plan.

This varies based on your service plan and business needs. Foundation clients typically receive 5–10 hours per month. Growth clients get 15–25 hours with deeper engagement and more hands-on planning. Partner clients receive the most embedded CFO-level time — 30–50 hours per month — including executive team participation.

We work across a wide range of industries, with particular depth in SMEs, startups, professional services, and not-for-profits. Izzat's 18+ years of experience spans multiple sectors including ASX-listed organisations, so we bring broad commercial knowledge to every engagement.

Three things set us apart: First, you get direct access to Izzat — a senior CPA with 18+ years of experience — not a junior consultant. Second, our approach is relationship-driven and deeply personalised to your business. Third, we focus on building long-term financial resilience, not just producing reports. We become a genuine strategic partner invested in your success.

We believe in earning your business through results, not locking you into long contracts. Initial engagements typically begin with a 3-month commitment to allow us to establish foundations and deliver meaningful value. After that, arrangements are reviewed and can be adjusted based on your evolving needs.

The best starting point is a free discovery call. This gives us both the opportunity to understand your business, discuss your goals, and determine whether Fortis is the right fit for you. There's no obligation and no pressure — just an honest conversation about where you are and where you want to go.