Executive Search Services

Controller Executive Search — Powered by True Headhunting

Pacific Executive Search recruits Controllers and Assistant Controllers for middle-market, PE-backed, public, and growth companies. We specialize in accounting and finance leadership — identifying proven professionals through direct headhunting, not job boards or resume databases.

Whether you need a replacement for a departing Controller, a first hire after an acquisition, or a leader to fix close problems and prepare for audit, we deliver vetted candidates who have done it before.

Why Great Controllers Are So Hard to Find

Controllers are the most in-demand finance role we see — and the hardest to fill through traditional recruiting. The best Controllers are entrenched at their current companies, highly compensated, and too busy running the month-end close to browse job boards.

Staffing agencies flood your inbox with active candidates who may lack the depth you need. Retained firms charge large upfront fees and may take months. Our headhunting methodology bypasses both problems: we directly identify the Controllers who match your requirements — industry, ownership structure, ERP systems, team size — and engage them personally.

Controller Profiles We Place

Corporate Controller

Owns the full accounting function — close, consolidations, audit, compliance. Typically CPA with Big 4 or large public company background.

Assistant Controller

Supports the Controller on day-to-day operations — journal entries, reconciliations, close process. Often the bridge between staff accountants and executive leadership.

PE Portfolio Controller

Manages accounting for sponsor-backed companies — lender reporting, board packages, cash management, purchase accounting, and multi-entity consolidation.

Divisional / Regional Controller

Runs the accounting function for a business unit or region. Common in multi-site manufacturers, property companies, and franchise organizations.

Our Controller Search Process

1
Define the Seat
We scope the Controller role with your leadership — reporting structure, ERP environment, team size, ownership type, and the specific problems this person needs to solve.
2
Map the Market
We identify every Controller and senior accounting leader in the relevant geography and industry who matches your criteria — active and passive.
3
Headhunt Directly
Senior headhunters reach out personally to top targets. No spray-and-pray InMails. Confidential, direct conversations.
4
Deliver a Shortlist
You receive 3-5 vetted candidates with detailed profiles — background, motivations, compensation, systems experience, and our assessment of fit.

Headhunting vs. Traditional Controller Recruiting

Staffing Agencies

• Post and wait
• Resume matching
• Volume-based submissions
• Limited screening depth

Retained Search

• Large upfront retainer
• Generalist researchers
• Months-long timelines
• Handoff to juniors

Pacific Executive Search

• Proactive headhunting
• A&F specialists only
• Senior-led, start to finish
• Shortlist in ~14 days

Available as Exclusive Executive Search

For high-stakes Controller searches requiring structured decision support, this role is available through our Exclusive Executive Search offering. You'll receive Candidate Dossiers with fit scoring and risk assessment, Weekly Search Intelligence Reports, and an explicit, evidence-backed recommendation.

Learn about Exclusive Executive Search →

When Employers Engage Us for Controller Search

Controller Replacement

Your current Controller is leaving and you need a seamless transition with no disruption to the close process.

Post-Acquisition

A PE sponsor or acquirer needs a Controller who can own purchase accounting, lender reporting, and integration.

ERP Implementation

You're migrating systems and need a Controller who has led a full ERP implementation before.

Close & Reporting Problems

Month-end takes too long, reconciliations are behind, or reporting quality is declining. You need a proven operator.

Audit Readiness

Preparing for your first audit, a restatement, or SOX compliance and need a Controller with the right experience.

PE-Backed Growth

Portfolio company is scaling and needs a Controller who can build the accounting function from the ground up.

Controller Search

Start Your Controller Search

Tell us about the role and your company. A senior headhunter will respond within 24 hours with a search strategy.

Schedule an Employer Consultation

View Our Process

Frequently Asked Questions — Controller Search

Why are Controllers so hard to find through traditional recruiting?
The best Controllers are deeply embedded in their current companies — running the close, managing audits, overseeing compliance. They're not browsing job boards. Our headhunting methodology reaches them through direct, confidential outreach and relationships built over decades.
What types of Controller roles do you fill?
Corporate Controllers, Assistant Controllers, PE Portfolio Controllers, and Divisional/Regional Controllers. We match your specific requirements — ERP systems, team size, industry, and ownership structure. See our Controller search page for profile details.
How quickly can you deliver Controller candidates?
We typically present a shortlist of 3-5 vetted Controller candidates within 14 days. Because we proactively headhunt rather than waiting for applicants, we launch your search on day one.
Do you screen for specific ERP or systems experience?
Yes. We routinely screen for NetSuite, SAP, Oracle, Workday, BlackLine, Sage, and Microsoft Dynamics experience. ERP proficiency is often a make-or-break requirement for Controller roles, and we assess it early in the process.
Do you charge an upfront fee for Controller searches?
No. We operate on a performance model — you pay when you hire. This means we have to deliver results, not just process. Schedule a consultation to learn more.
What is the average cost of a headhunter for a Controller?
Headhunter fees for Controller-level placements typically range from 25% to 30% of the candidate's first-year salary. Retained search firms may charge 25-35% with upfront deposits. At Pacific Executive Search, we use a performance-based model — you only pay when a hire is made, with no large upfront retainer. This structure ensures our incentives are aligned with your outcome.
Is it worth hiring a headhunter to find a Controller?
Yes — especially when the cost of a bad hire exceeds the cost of the search. Controllers manage the close, audits, compliance, and internal controls. A prolonged vacancy or mis-hire at this level creates reporting delays, audit risk, and operational disruption that far outweigh search fees. Headhunters also access passive candidates who aren't applying to job postings — the strongest Controllers are typically already employed and performing well. Learn more about why companies use executive search.
How do I find a good headhunter for accounting and finance roles?
Look for a headhunter who specializes exclusively in your discipline — not a generalist who recruits across all industries. Ask how they source candidates (proactive headhunting vs. job postings), what their typical placement level is, and whether they have direct relationships in your market. A specialized accounting and finance headhunter will understand technical requirements like CPA credentials, ERP systems, and Big 4 experience without you having to explain them.

Controller Executive Search