One Accounting Function. Several Ways to Staff It.

The Idea

Build the function first

An accounting function can be operated by internal employees, fractional leadership, managed support, outside specialists, or a blended team. None of those models is automatically better.

The right answer depends on the volume and complexity of the work, the level of judgment required, the capabilities already inside the business, and how much continuity the company needs.

Define the processes, responsibilities, controls, systems, and reporting first. Then assign the work to the people best suited to perform and manage it.