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Fractional CFO / Client Advisory Director

Lead businesses forward. Influence strategy. Build trusted relationships.

Berndt CPA LLC is seeking a strategic, relationship-driven Fractional CFO / Client Advisory Director to join our growing advisory and outsourced accounting practice. This position is ideal for an experienced accounting or finance leader who enjoys partnering with entrepreneurial businesses, improving operations, mentoring teams, and providing high-level financial insight in a collaborative and people-focused environment.

This role would be an excellent fit for professionals coming from private industry leadership roles such as Controller, Assistant Controller, Finance Director, or CFO, as well as professionals with outsourced accounting or advisory experience. The position offers significant autonomy, direct client interaction, and long-term leadership opportunities within the firm.

Position Summary

The Fractional CFO / Client Advisory Director serves as a strategic advisor to entrepreneurial business clients across a variety of industries. This role combines financial leadership, operational consulting, relationship management, and team collaboration while helping clients strengthen processes, improve financial visibility, and support long-term growth.

Description of Duties

Client Advisory & Financial Leadership

• Serve as a trusted advisor to a portfolio of entrepreneurial business clients.
• Provide fractional CFO and controllership services including budgeting, forecasting, cash flow management, KPI reporting, and operational financial guidance.
• Assist business owners and leadership teams with financial decision-making and strategic planning.
• Identify opportunities for process improvement, automation, operational efficiencies, and technology optimization.

Accounting Oversight

• Oversee monthly and quarterly accounting functions and financial reporting processes.
• Review financial statements and accounting workflows for accuracy, consistency, and timeliness.
• Assist clients with system transitions, reporting enhancements, and process standardization.

Leadership & Collaboration

• Collaborate with internal accounting professionals to deliver high-quality client service.
• Mentor and support team members as the advisory practice continues to grow.
• Help foster a collaborative, supportive, and client-focused culture.

Practice Growth

• Build strong long-term client relationships through consistent communication and value-driven service.
• Participate in networking, relationship development, and community involvement initiatives.
• Support the continued growth and evolution of the firm's advisory service offerings.

Recommended Skills and Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or related field.
• CPA preferred but not required.
• 7-15 + years of accounting, finance, or operational leadership experience.
• Experience in private industry leadership, outsourced accounting, advisory services, or public accounting environments.
• Strong understanding of financial reporting, budgeting, forecasting, and business operations.
• Experience working directly with business owners and leadership teams.
• Strong communication, organizational, and relationship management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple clients and priorities in a collaborative environment.
• Familiarity with cloud-based accounting platforms including QuickBooks Online and related technologies.
• Strategic mindset with a proactive and solution-oriented approach.

Best Practices for Success in This Role

• Build trusted relationships by becoming a reliable resource for clients and internal teams.
• Maintain proactive communication and responsiveness with clients and colleagues.
• Help clients improve financial visibility and operational efficiency through process improvements and technology solutions.
• Provide thoughtful leadership and mentorship to support team development. Embrace adaptability and collaboration while serving a variety of entrepreneurial businesses.
• Stay informed on industry trends and evolving best practices in advisory and financial leadership.

What We Offer

At Berndt CPA LLC, we support our team members in maintaining a healthy work-life balance. We provide a collaborative environment where professional growth is encouraged, and personal flexibility is respected. This position offers:

• Competitive compensation and bonus program
• Flex-time or full-time options with partial remote work available, depending on the candidate's preferences
• Comprehensive benefits package (health, dental, vision, 401k match)
• Supportive, people-first firm culture with regular team events
• Professional development and career advancement opportunities
• Paid time for community involvement and networking
• Modern technology and tools in a collaborative environment
• Opportunity to work closely with entrepreneurial businesses across a variety of industries
• Meaningful client relationships and strategic advisory involvement

Awards And Recognition – Recent

• 2026 – Top Work Places - 1st Place Small Business - Wisconsin State Journal
• 2025 – Top Work Places – Small Business – Wisconsin State Journal
• 2025 – Best Places to Work – Small Business – Madison Magazine
• 2025 – Best Accounting Firm to Work For – Accounting Today
• 2024 – People's Choice Awards – Best Accounting Firm
• 2024 – Top Work Places – Small Business – Wisconsin State Journal
• 2024 – Best Places to Work – Small Business – Madison Magazine
• 2024 – InBusiness Executive Choice Award – Accounting Firm
• 2024 – Best Accounting Firm to Work For – Accounting Today

Ready to grow your career with a firm that invests in your success? Apply today and bring your expertise to a people-first firm that values your impact.