How Much Should You Budget for an Executive Search Firm?

Written by Ray Nicholls, Founder, Pitch Hill Partners

How Much Should You Budget for an Executive Search Firm?

Thinking of hiring a CFO or Finance Director? You might be wondering — what will a search firm actually cost us?

Most executive search firms charge 25% to 33% of the CFO’s first-year comp — that’s base salary plus guaranteed bonus.

At Pitch Hill Partners, we work on a retained basis — fees are split into three stages: kick-off, shortlist, and successful hire.

Yes, it’s a cost — but it’s also a risk reducer. A bad finance hire delays growth, dents investor confidence, and costs more long-term.

The right search partner brings speed, judgment, and access to candidates you’ll never get from a job ad.

If you’re planning to bring in a CFO or senior finance lead, feel free to message me. Happy to share what we’re seeing in the market — no pitch, just insight.