When choosing a fractional CFO, personality fit often matters more than industry background.

This week I was approached about two new fractional roles – both seemed near on obsessive about relevant industry experience. I seem to find when I start a fractional arrangement, that the issues centre around the same common themes.

Yes—deep industry knowledge can be helpful. But here’s the truth: the best CFOs don’t just know your industry—they know how to think strategically across any business.

What truly drives success in a fractional CFO partnership?
✅ Clear, confident communication
✅ Alignment with your company culture
✅ Ability to build trust with founders, investors, and teams
✅ Willingness to roll up their sleeves and adapt
✅ Strategic thinking that isn’t locked into “how it’s always been done”

I’ve seen it time and time again: a CFO with the perfect resume but the wrong approach ends up causing friction. Meanwhile, a CFO with strong fundamentals and the right personality fit and attitude becomes a true extension of your leadership team—even if they’ve never worked in your niche before.

Don’t just ask, “Have they worked in my industry?”
Ask:
🔹 Do they get how we think and operate?
🔹 Can we collaborate under pressure?
🔹 Will they challenge us and support us?
Industry knowledge can be learned. Chemistry can’t.

What are your views? If you had to choose one or the other, which would you go for?