Should you hire a fractional or interim Head of Tax?

Author Jack Hart
October 28, 2024

We’ve already discussed why you should consider hiring a permanent Head of Tax for your start-up, but as an alternative, could your business benefit from hiring a fractional or interim professional?

Hiring a fractional Head of Tax can be a strategic move for businesses seeking expertise without the commitment of a full-time position. Furthermore, adding a fractional or interim tax leader to your business isn’t just something for start-ups to consider, large corporations may consider this too. By thinking outside of the box, you not only add a sense of energy to your business but key strategic insight too.

Interim vs fractional Head of Tax

Deciding between hiring an interim or fractional Head of Tax depends on your organization’s specific needs and circumstances.

Interim head of tax

An interim Head of Tax is usually brought in for a fixed period, often to cover for a vacancy or during a transitional phase. Key advantages of hiring an interim professional include:

  • Immediate Availability: They can step in quickly to manage urgent tax issues or fill a gap during a transition
  • Focus on Stabilization: An interim leader often focuses on ensuring compliance, stabilizing operations, and addressing immediate challenges
  • Project-Based Expertise: They can lead specific projects, such as audits or system implementations, and then depart once objectives are met

However, the nature of an interim hire means that it is not for them to set long-term strategy, which may limit their overall impact.

Fractional Head of Tax

A fractional Head of Tax works on a part-time or flexible basis, providing ongoing expertise and support. Key advantages of hiring a fractional Head of include:

  • Long-Term Strategy: They focus on developing and implementing tax strategies that align with the company’s long-term goals
  • Cost Efficiency: Businesses can access high-level expertise without the costs associated with a full-time hire
  • Scalability: Fractional roles can be adjusted based on the company’s evolving needs, making it a flexible option

Ten benefits of hiring a fractional or interim Head of Tax

  • Cost-effectiveness – Fractional executives allow businesses to access high-level expertise at a fraction of the cost of a full-time hire
  • Flexibility – Companies can scale their tax resources based on current needs, avoiding overhead costs
  • Expertise on demand – Fractional Heads of Tax often bring extensive experience across various industries, providing insights that in-house teams may lack
  • Current knowledge – They stay updated on the latest tax laws and regulations, ensuring compliance and optimized tax strategies
  • Long-term planning – A fractional Head of Tax can help develop and implement tax strategies that align with the company’s overall business goals
  • Risk management – They can identify potential tax risks and create mitigation strategies to avoid costly penalties
  • Transition and training – A fractional executive can train existing staff, enhancing the overall capability of the team
  • Smooth transitions – They can help during periods of change, such as mergers or acquisitions, ensuring tax compliance and efficiency
  • Adaptability to business size – Startups to Enterprises: Fractional tax leaders can benefit businesses of all sizes, tailoring their approach based on specific needs and challenges
  • Networking and resources – Industry Connections: Fractional Heads of Tax often have a broad network of contacts, providing additional resources and support for the business

How Brewer Morris can help you source an interim or fractional Head of Tax for your start-up or portfolio business

A senior tax professional will always be an asset to businesses looking to enhance their tax strategy without the commitment of a full-time role. By providing expertise, flexibility, and strategic insights, they can help organizations navigate complex tax landscapes effectively.

If you are looking to hire a Head of Tax for your start-up, please don’t hesitate to submit a brief and a member of our team will be in touch.

Alternatively, if you are looking for a new Head of Tax opportunity, look at our latest opportunities.

Jobs

Corporate Tax Manager

Manages corporate tax reporting, planning, compliance, and payment functions, including corporate income/franchise, sales, property, and various excise taxes. Optimizes corporate structures, methods, and processes to lawfully minimize corporate tax burden. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Carries out supervisory responsibilities including interviewing, hiring, training, and developing partners; planning, assigning, and directing work; appraising performance; rewarding and disciplining […]
  • Salary Up to USD130000 per annum
  • Posted Posted 3 days ago
  • Commerce and industry

Senior Tax Analyst

Our client, a leader in the hospitality industry, is seeking a Senior Tax Analyst to join their corporate tax team. This role offers a dynamic work environment with opportunities for professional growth. Role Highlights: Focus on Federal Income Tax – Key responsibilities in tax provision and compliance. Hybrid Work Flexibility – Start with 2 days […]
  • Posted Posted 3 days ago
  • Commerce and industry

Senior Tax Analyst – Partnerships

As a Tax Senior Analyst in the Houston office, you will report to Tax Advisor, and you will provide federal compliance services for the company’s partnerships, focusing on accuracy, timeliness, and quality. Your responsibilities will include preparing complex partnership workpapers that support tax returns, providing capital account and Schedule K-1 estimates, and other compliance functions […]
  • Salary Up to USD115000 per annum
  • Posted Posted 3 days ago
  • Commerce and industry

Tax Manager

About the Company A growing SaaS and financial services provider, this company supports insurance and underwriting businesses. As a subsidiary of a publicly traded company, it ensures compliance with evolving tax regulations while optimizing financial strategies. Role Overview The Tax Manager will oversee tax compliance, financial reporting, and regulatory obligations. This role requires expertise in […]
  • Posted Posted 1 week ago
  • Commerce and industry

Director, Tax Strategy and Operations

About our Client Our client is a privately-held, diversified holding company with businesses spanning manufacturing, real estate, government contracts, and international markets. We are partnered on a Director of Tax Strategy and Operations hire to lead and optimize their corporate and shareholder tax planning, compliance, and execution. Role Highlights Lead corporate and shareholder tax strategy […]
  • Posted Posted 1 week ago

Featured Content

See all news
  • Tax

How AI is impacting tax recruitment

  • Posted March 12, 2025
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as one of the most transformative forces in various sectors, and tax recruitment is no exception. As the field of tax professionals evolves, AI is reshaping the way tax talent is sourced, evaluated, and employed. From automating time-consuming tasks to enhancing the recruitment experience for both candidates and employers, AI […]
  • US

The evolving role of Treasury Managers in the US

  • Posted March 12, 2025
Treasury management has long been considered the backbone of financial health in organizations, particularly within the commercial sector. Yet, in today’s increasingly complex financial environment, the role of treasury managers has grown from being just a guardian of cash flow to a multifaceted strategic leader. With shifting global markets, heightened economic pressures, and rapid technological […]
  • US

Take your career to Texas

  • Posted March 10, 2025
As one of the fastest-growing states in the United States, Texas offers immense opportunities for professionals in various industries and the tax field is no exception. From its thriving economy and business-friendly climate to its diverse job market and affordable cost of living, Texas stands out as an ideal destination for those looking to advance […]