Scaling Smarter: How Fractional CFOs Unlock Enterprise Value | Ellen Wood

In this episode of the Millionaire Mindcast, Matty A. welcomes Ellen Wood, founder and CEO of VCFO, who pioneered the fractional CFO model and has supported more than 6,000 companies through growth and exit planning.

Ellen shares her journey in building VCFO, the inspiration behind trademarking “virtual CFO,” and why more businesses are turning to fractional financial leadership. From the power of the V360 Assessment to the critical role of accountability and culture, Ellen outlines the strategies that differentiate businesses that scale successfully from those that stall.

She also dives into common exit planning mistakes, the importance of preparation years in advance, and her perspective on the future of fractional CFO services as AI and private equity reshape the office of the CFO.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• The origins of VCFO and the rise of fractional CFO services
• How the V360 Assessment identifies risks and opportunities
• Why accountability and culture are key drivers of value
• The biggest mistakes business owners make before an exit
• Strategies to scale successfully and retain top talent
• How AI and private equity are transforming finance functions
• Ellen’s personal lessons and advice to entrepreneurs

Timestamps:

01:00 – Ellen Wood’s background and founding VCFO

03:30 – Building the fractional CFO model

07:00 – Expanding into HR and operational support

11:45 – Using V360 to prepare for growth and exit

17:30 – Culture and accountability as hidden value drivers

21:30 – Exit preparation: what most founders get wrong

25:45 – Scaling vs. stalling businesses

29:00 – The future of fractional CFO services

32:00 – Advice to her younger entrepreneurial self

Connect with Ellen Wood:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellenewood/

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