They all deal with “finance.” But not all of them think strategically.

As a founder, knowing who does what can save you from overpaying, under-delegating — or worse, missing out on critical insights when you need them the most.

Let’s break it down: Accountant vs. Finance Manager vs. Virtual CFO Who should you hire — and when?

📊 1. Accountant: Your Compliance Backbone

Primary Role: Handles routine compliance & bookkeeping

What they do:

• Maintain books of accounts

• File GST, TDS, and ITR returns

• Record expenses & revenue

• Prepare basic financial statements

Great for: ✅ Statutory compliance ✅ Accurate books ❌ But not responsible for business decisions

🧾 2. Finance Manager: Your In-House Controller

Primary Role: Manages internal reporting & financial operations

What they do:

• Create internal MIS reports

• Help with budgeting & controls

• Monitor costs and vendor payments

• Coordinate with banks, auditors, and accountant

Great for: ✅ Mid-sized teams with steady ops ✅ Financial hygiene ❌ But not a strategic growth advisor

🧠 3. Virtual CFO: Your Strategic Growth Partner

Primary Role: Offers CFO-level expertise — part-time, but full-impact

What we do at CFO Emeritus:

• Build & review financial models

• Track burn rate, runway, and unit economics

• Assist in fundraising (deck + investor calls)

• Advise on cash flow planning & profitability

• Design scalable financial systems

• Liaise with founders, investors, and stakeholders

Great for: ✅ Startups with traction or scaling plans ✅ Founders needing strategic financial clarity ✅ Growing businesses without CFO salary budgets

📌 Quick Comparison Table

🎯 Final Thought

Think of it this way:

• 🧮 Accountant → Records your story

• 📊 Finance Manager → Organizes your story

• 🚀 Virtual CFO → Writes the next chapter with you

At CFO Emeritus, we help founders go beyond just compliance — and build financial systems that support fundraising, decision-making, and sustainable growth.

📩 Want to explore if your startup needs Virtual CFO services? Drop a message or write to us at office@cfoemeritus.com

PS: Next week: “Private Limited vs. LLP — Which is Right for Your Startup?”

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