Founders often mistake the timing to hire their first CFO, often opting for one around $10m-$30m ARR when they really need a VP/SVP of Finance, as advised by OnlyCFO.
The right finance leader varies from a Series A company to a pre-IPO company, emphasizing the importance of timing and hiring the right person.
Considerations for hiring executives include the leader's cost, capabilities of current leadership, and complexities of the business.
Experienced executives can be costly, so hiring them should align with the business's needs and growth stage.
Factors like the skills of existing leaders and the complexities of the business determine when a 'true' CFO is needed.
More experienced leaders expect larger teams, so hiring the right level and timing is crucial to avoid unnecessary expenses.
The CFO's responsibilities go beyond traditional finance areas, becoming more critical as the company scales.
Deciding when to hire a 'true' CFO depends on various factors outlined, ensuring the role aligns with the company's growth and needs.
While leaders can scale with the company, the finance leader at a $5M business might not be suitable for a $250M revenue company.
Understanding the distinction between needing a CFO versus a (S)VP of Finance is crucial for optimizing financial leadership based on revenue milestones.
Careful assessment of the criteria provided is advised to avoid hiring a CFO too early or too late, ensuring strategic alignment with the company's growth.