Iter Advisors

Finance glossary

CFO: definition of Chief Financial Officer

Updated on October 2, 2026By ·

Definition of CFO

CFO is a job title. It does not describe employee status, nor a mode of service, nor a certification. The scope may include budget, reporting, financing and coordination of accounting work.

CFO and DAF: how do the titles differ?

DAF is the French abbreviation for directeur administratif et financier. The two titles can describe the same role. A title alone does not establish signing authority, HR responsibilities or a position in corporate governance.

The missions of a CFO in a startup

Priorities depend on the file: cash flow, revenues, margins or investor reporting. Discover the the profession of CFO and the missions and deliverables of an external CFO.

The Fractional CFO: the solution for SMEs and startups

One Fractional CFO intervenes in a service framework. The part-time describes an agreed partial availability. No workforce threshold automatically determines the choice between employee and service provider.

FAQ - CFO

CFO and chartered accountant: what’s the difference? The CFO manages the financial function; the accountant carries out the missions agreed with his client, which may also include advice. Specify their respective responsibilities.

CFO and CFA: what’s the difference? CFO is a position; CFA designates a professional qualification in financial analysis.

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