When management vacancies occur unexpectedly, an expert interim CFO is often the ideal solution. The interim CFO ensures financial security, control and sustained success.

Demand for interim CFOs is on the rise. Cooperation based on mutual trust and the application of proven methods and instruments are the foundation of our work. Discretion is expected as a matter of course. In our daily activities, we generally encounter three categories of scenarios that precipitate the need for an interim CFO:

Temporary absence of a CFO or controller

The companies are generally well or very well organised and have functioning processes, systems and structures. In most cases, the manager eventually returns to the position – our role is simply to bridge the gap. Many larger organisations can handle an absence of a few weeks internally. For SMEs, even this scenario can be difficult. For us, the first order of business in such scenarios is to quickly gain an overview of the situation and ensure that core tasks are carried out without interruption. Further tasks include management of staff, the support of the executive management and owner, and preparation for the seamless return of the CFO. If, unexpectedly, the manager does not return to the position, we assist the client in its search for a permanent replacement.

Reorganisation

It is not uncommon for a management position to be redefined due to circumstances: mergers and acquisitions, changes in ownership, or shuffling within the management apparatus. We assist clients in such cases as an interim CFO. We can also provide support during reorganisation processes: until the new organisation is in place and the new structures have been implemented – or, if necessary, a new director has been found to fill the CFO position.

Problem situations

In the first two scenarios, we attempt to bring in case studies and references; in the third scenario, the situation is unlikely to ever be made public. In these cases, the highest discretion is of the essence. Perhaps a manager is facing an excessive workload or is out of their depth, or a project has failed. Or perhaps the problem has arisen through misconduct. To resolve such situations, the use of an interim CFO and specialists is often the only way forward.

In such cases, we work together with the client to devise a customised solution – after a thorough analysis of the situation. The top priority is to provide maximum benefit to the client with a rapid and satisfactory result.

A real-life case

With more than 10,000 members and 30 employees, the allgemeine baugenossenchaft luzern (abl) cooperative manages and operates 2,000 apartments and implements major housing projects. It enjoys strong growth and as part of a reorganisation process has added to its management team and restructured various activities. Roland Kleeb assisted the Executive Board and the executive management as interim CFO. His tasks included the definition of a profile and task catalogue for the position of Director Finance & Services, as well as assistance in implementation of various projects. Moreover, over a period of several months, he worked together with staff to ensure the smooth functioning of daily operations. His expertise was particularly valuable in the rapid implementation of the financial strategy and in the planning and introduction of a new ERP system. The transition to Swiss GAAP FER also led to the emergence of an additional project.

“In Roland Kleeb, we brought in an experienced and highly effective expert and CFO, who helped us immensely within a very short period of time. We benefited greatly from his experience as CFO of medium-sized enterprises, as well as the introduction of an ERP system.” Bruno Koch, Managing Director abl

“Roland Kleeb was a substantial help to the Executive Board and executive management in the areas of finance and control over a period of several months. With great insight and skill, he assessed and really advanced our activities in the field of finance. In doing so, he laid the foundation for the successful appointment of a highly qualified manager.” Ruedi Meier, President abl