Frequently Asked Questions

A headhunter works by proactively identifying and engaging top-tier professionals, many of whom aren't actively job seeking. Headhunters build relationships over time and approach candidates directly when the right opportunity matches their career goals and expertise. Learn more about our approach on our About page.

The difference between a headhunter and recruiter is that headhunting is targeted and proactive. Instead of waiting for candidates to apply like traditional recruiters, headhunters identify specific professionals and approach them directly. This allows access to passive talent who may not be actively job searching but are open to the right opportunity. For detailed insights on recruitment strategies, visit our hiring insights.

Headhunters are paid through both contingency (success-based) and retained search models. Contingency payment means no fee unless a successful placement is made. Retained search involves an upfront fee and is typically used for confidential or executive-level roles requiring deeper discovery and project management. To discuss our fee structure for your specific needs, schedule a consultation.

The difference between a staffing firm and recruiting firm is that staffing firms typically focus on volume and temporary placements, while recruiting firms like Pacific Executive Search focus on permanent, senior-level roles requiring specialized expertise. Recruiting firms emphasize quality relationships and long-term career matches rather than quick fills. Read more about our specialization approach in our insights articles.

A company should engage a headhunter for specialized, senior, or confidential roles, and when they need access to passive talent who aren't actively job searching. Headhunters are particularly effective for finance leadership roles like Controller, Director of Finance, and CFO positions. For strategic hiring guidance, explore our hiring insights or schedule a consultation.

Companies should use a specialized accounting/finance recruiter because specialization improves speed, vetting quality, and network access. Specialized recruiters understand the nuances of finance roles, salary benchmarks, and career progression paths. This focused approach means they already know top talent in the field and can move faster than generalist firms. See our recent successful placements in finance and accounting roles.

Pacific Executive Search does not place bookkeepers or entry-level accountants. We specialize in recruiting professional-level accountants and finance leaders — typically from the Big 4 or similar backgrounds — for roles ranging from Senior Accountant through Chief Financial Officer. For clerical or transactional positions, a traditional staffing firm may be a better fit. Browse our current professional-level opportunities.

Pacific Executive Search works with middle-market and growth-oriented companies that view finance as a strategic function — not just back-office support. The companies we work with value professionalism, technical strength, and long-term cultural alignment. If you're interested in working with us, learn about our hiring process.

Pacific Executive Search works with elite finance and accounting professionals throughout their careers, offering consultative guidance whether they're actively exploring opportunities or simply planning their next strategic move. While our work is primarily client-driven through executive search, we maintain relationships with top-tier talent and provide career counsel to help them navigate advancement opportunities. We invite accomplished professionals to visit our careers page to learn more about our consultative approach and how we can support your career growth.

The difference between Pacific Executive Search's approach and a staffing agency's is that staffing agencies fill roles by volume — we fill them by precision. Our recruiters are career specialists in accounting and finance, most with 20+ years of experience in Los Angeles and Orange County. We focus on sourcing high-performing professionals, not resumes. Learn more about our team and methodology on our About page.

Pacific Executive Search's typical candidate profile includes Big 4 alumni or professionals who hold CPA credentials, and have progressed into senior accounting, FP&A, or executive finance roles. Our typical candidates are career professionals, not job hoppers. For career development insights and advancement strategies, visit our career insights section.

Yes, Pacific Executive Search can help companies hire remotely or outside Southern California — we maintain an active network across Denver, Austin, Portland, and Las Vegas. However, we only take on searches where we can provide the same level of depth and quality we're known for in Los Angeles and Orange County. Visit our location-specific pages: Denver, Austin, or Portland.

Absolutely, companies that are not in a rush to hire can still engage Pacific Executive Search. We recommend a deliberate, proactive search even for non-urgent roles. The best professionals aren't applying to postings; they're approached. We'll help you plan a strategic, tiered search to identify the right fit before the need becomes urgent. Schedule a strategic consultation to discuss your hiring timeline.

Pacific Executive Search's fee structure includes both contingent and retained models depending on the level and urgency of the search. In either case, our work emphasizes precision and long-term results. If your priority is the lowest possible cost, we're likely not the right partner. For a detailed discussion of our fees and services, schedule a consultation.

A search with Pacific Executive Search typically takes 30 to 60 days to complete, depending on complexity. Because we headhunt passive talent, our process focuses on alignment and fit rather than speed alone. For insights on hiring timelines and best practices, explore our hiring insights.

What makes Pacific Executive Search different from national firms is our local expertise and relationships. Our recruiters have spent decades in the Los Angeles and Orange County accounting market. We know the people, the industries, and the reputations — insights you can't replicate from a national database. Learn more about our team and experience on our About page.

Yes, Pacific Executive Search has extensive experience recruiting for private equity portfolio companies. We frequently work with portfolio companies in Southern California that need finance leaders who can scale operations, manage lender reporting, and support exit strategies. View examples of our successful executive placements in similar environments.