The challenge.
As Premier Partnership grew, so did the complexity of their finance needs. When one of the original founders retired, the remaining team recognised a gap in strategic financial support and the growing pressure on the existing CFO, Chris Mouatt.
Rather than rushing into a permanent hire or simply spreading the load, the business made a progressive decision: to bring in a fractional twin, also known as a CFO’s CFO. This meant their existing CFO could focus on high-value activities, while gaining a strategic sounding board with complementary skills and experience.
A growing business creates growing demands which makes the CFO’s CFO model very popular. Bringing The CFO Centre’s Nicola Horton in as additional resource meant complex challenges around strategic planning, internal reporting, systems improvements, and forward-looking analysis could be addressed.
The business recognised that Chris only had a certain number of hours in the day, it needed to strengthen the function with someone who could complement his skillset, contribute at a senior level, and provide additional capacity and confidence at a critical moment.
Importantly, the business also needed flexibility: they wanted the experience of a seasoned CFO, but not on a full-time basis.
The approach.
Nicola Horton joined Premier Partnership as a fractional CFO to add extra strategic and hands-on support to the existing leadership and provide specific skills exactly where they were needed.
The fractional CFO model proved ideal. Nicola worked with Chris on areas such as board-level reporting, financial planning, and leadership support, bringing a fresh perspective and easing the pressure during a time of transition.
Together, they formed a robust partnership that allowed Chris to continue focusing on the areas where he could have the most impact while Nicola helped strengthen internal processes, validate strategic direction, and contribute to long-term financial planning.
The CFO Centre’s solutions.
Nicola didn’t just support Chris, she strengthened the entire business. From reporting and systems, to planning and people, her insight helped elevate Premier Partnership’s financial leadership without adding unnecessary cost or complexity.
The success of this model showcases how modern businesses are rethinking leadership. Sometimes the best way to support your team is to strengthen it from within with expert input that fits your needs, not just your payroll.
The flexibility of the fractional model means Premier Partnership can scale support as needed, dialling it up for special projects, and back as things settle. It’s a smart, scalable way to ensure financial strength remains at the heart of business strategy.
