How to Recruit Top Financial Leaders to Strengthen Your Business

Hiring a financial leader isn’t just about finding someone with the right degree — it's about finding a strategic partner who can drive your company's growth. In today’s evolving landscape, it’s more important than ever to know what separates a good hire from a great one.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of top executives, including CFOs, is projected to grow by 3% from 2022 to 2032, reinforcing the demand for top-tier financial leadership. Whether you're scaling up or stabilizing operations, knowing how to find top Controllers and CFOs can make all the difference.

Here’s what you need to know.

Controller vs. CFO: Understanding the Roles

Before you start recruiting, it’s essential to understand the difference between a Controller and a CFO. Although both are vital finance roles, they serve very different purposes.

A Controller focuses on managing the company’s accounting operations — everything from internal controls and audits to financial reporting and compliance. They ensure accuracy and help optimize daily financial activities.

A Chief Financial Officer (CFO), meanwhile, takes a broader, strategic view. CFOs guide long-term financial planning, manage investor relations, lead fundraising efforts, and play a major role in executive decision-making. They’re key players in mergers, acquisitions, and scaling initiatives.

When should you hire one over the other?

• Early-stage companies or businesses undergoing growth typically start with a Controller to tighten financial operations.

• When you need strategic leadership, external investment, or are preparing for major expansion, a CFO becomes essential.

Learn more about our direct hire services at Wenlock Talent.

Financial and Leadership Skills That Matter

When hiring a Controller or CFO, technical expertise is only part of the equation. Here are the top skills to prioritize:

Technical Financial Expertise

Look for candidates who bring deep knowledge of GAAP, compliance standards, financial modeling, budgeting, and risk management. For Controllers, mastery of accounting software like NetSuite or QuickBooks is key. For CFOs, familiarity with financial technologies, forecasting models, and investor communications is crucial.

Strategic Business Acumen

Your financial leader should be able to tie financial data to broader business goals. A great CFO doesn’t just report the numbers — they create strategies that drive company growth. Similarly, a Controller should help optimize operations through effective budgeting and resource allocation.

Leadership and Collaboration

Finance doesn’t operate in a vacuum. Whether it’s a Controller managing an accounting team or a CFO collaborating with the C-Suite, leadership skills are non-negotiable. They should be comfortable advising leadership, mentoring junior staff, and communicating with external stakeholders.

Looking to streamline your search? Our team specializes in finance and operational recruiting tailored to your company's unique needs.

Beyond the Resume: What Top Financial Leaders Bring

Credentials and experience are important, but the best hires also bring intangible qualities that are critical for long-term success.

Integrity and Trustworthiness

When hiring someone to oversee your finances, trust is paramount. Your Controller or CFO should demonstrate strong ethical standards and transparency, especially when navigating sensitive financial matters.

Adaptability and Problem-Solving

The financial landscape is constantly shifting. Whether responding to economic downturns, industry disruptions, or evolving regulations, great financial leaders remain flexible and solutions-oriented.

Communication Skills

Finance can be complex. Your hire must be able to translate numbers and financial jargon into clear, actionable insights for non-financial stakeholders. Strong communication ensures alignment across all areas of the business.

Want more insights on hiring for growth? Check out resources like Harvard Business Review’s finance leadership articles for broader strategic perspectives.

Common Hiring Mistakes to Avoid

Even with the best intentions, businesses often stumble during the hiring process. Here’s what to watch out for:

Overlooking Cultural Fit

A technically skilled CFO or Controller who doesn’t align with your company’s culture can create friction and slow progress. During interviews, assess candidates for both hard skills and cultural compatibility.

Rushing the Process

High-level hires take time. It’s tempting to move fast when there's an urgent need, but thorough vetting — including assessments, references, and multiple interviews — increases your chances of success.

Ignoring Tech Fluency

Today’s finance leaders must be comfortable with modern financial systems, data analytics tools, and automation platforms. Candidates who embrace technology can drive efficiency and provide deeper insights into business performance.

A recent Deloitte report emphasized how digital finance transformation is reshaping CFO responsibilities — and it’s a trend that’s only accelerating.

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Find the Right Financial Leader with Wenlock Talent

Hiring a Controller or CFO is one of the most important decisions you can make for your company’s future. It’s about more than just resumes and references — it’s about finding a strategic partner who can deliver results, lead with integrity, and drive your business forward.

At Wenlock Talent, we know what it takes to match exceptional finance leaders with growing companies. Whether you need direct hire support, fractional leadership solutions, or guidance on how to find top Controllers and CFOs, we’re here to help.

Ready to build your leadership team? Contact Wenlock Talent today to start your search.

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