Summary
The traditional perception of a CFO as a full-time executive dedicated to a single organisation is rapidly evolving. As businesses face increasing pressure to manage growth, improve performance, navigate uncertainty, and embrace transformation, many are turning to the Fractional CFO model to access strategic financial leadership in a flexible and cost-effective way.
A Fractional CFO brings executive-level financial expertise to organisations on a part-time, project-based, or advisory basis, helping leadership teams make informed decisions, strengthen governance, improve financial visibility, and support long-term growth objectives. This model has become particularly valuable for startups, SMEs, and growing businesses that require strategic finance support but may not yet need a full-time CFO.
In this webinar, Joanne Bjelanovic CPA (Aust.) and Elly Abbasi CPA (Aust.) will share their experiences working as finance leaders across diverse industries and markets. They will explore the role of the Fractional CFO, the challenges and opportunities associated with this approach, and the practical ways in which businesses can leverage senior financial expertise to achieve sustainable growth and stronger business outcomes.
UAE time zone: GMT +4
If you need assistance registering for the event, please contact uae@cpaaustralia.com.au
Learning Outcomes:
- Explain the role and responsibilities of a Fractional CFO and how the position differs from a traditional full-time CFO.
- Identify business scenarios where a Fractional CFO can provide strategic value through financial leadership, governance, and decision support.
- Evaluate the benefits and considerations of the Fractional CFO model for organisations at different stages of growth.
Speakers
Take a look at our speakers scheduled for this event.
Joanne Bjelanovic CPA (Aust.)
CFO at RW Armstrong, Fractional CFO at Silver Lining
Joanne Bjelanovic is a Chief Financial Officer who has built her career across multiple countries and business settings. She has worked in senior finance roles supporting growing organisations through periods of change, expansion and strategic decision making.
Joanne’s career journey has involved navigating new markets, cultures and ways of working — experiences that have shaped how she leads, communicates and approaches her career. She is particularly interested in how finance professionals can adapt, stay grounded and continue to grow when working across borders.
Joanne looks forward to sharing practical insights from her own path, including lessons learned and what she wishes she’d known earlier in her career.
Elly Abbasi CPA (Aust.)
Founder and Fractional CFO at Axion Advisory
Elly Abbasi is a CPA (Australia), strategic finance leader, and Founder & Managing Director of Axion Advisory, a UAE-based firm that partners with founders, boards, and executive teams to deliver CFO-level strategy, corporate governance, and hands-on execution that drives sustainable growth.
With over 13 years of international experience spanning Australia and the Middle East, including senior finance roles at BHP Billiton, one of the world's largest mining companies, and within the UAE's Oil & Gas sector, she brings deep cross-industry expertise to complex governance, transformation, and leadership challenges.
Currently a DBA Candidate at LUISS Business School in Rome, with research focused on green and digital transition, Elly embodies the continuous learning she advocates for in organisations.
She also serves as CFO at Women in Advisory, advancing diverse leadership through initiatives like the UAE Rising Chairs programme, which prepares Emirati women for board chair roles. Elly contributes to industry conversations on AI, digital transformation, and the evolving role of finance in leadership. She is passionate about equipping leaders to navigate change with agility, trust, and accountability.
