Great insights from our Executive Search expert, Stefanie Hopkins, on a question we hear every Q4…
💡 Is now the right time to hire (or move) for a Senior Finance role? 💡 With the holiday season, year-end close, and upcoming STIP/bonus payouts, many companies wonder whether to start a search now or wait until January. On the flip side, candidates often ask whether leaving before year-end “looks bad.” Key considerations: 🔹 Year-end movement is normal Senior finance leaders do make changes in Q4. Bonus buyouts or sign-ons are common, so timing doesn’t need to be a barrier. What matters most is long-term fit, scope, and trajectory. 🔹 Year-end close is a factor Leaving in November/December can create pressure on your current team. Strong leaders consider the impact, but employers also recognize that career opportunities don’t always align perfectly with reporting cycles. 🔹 For employers: waiting vs. starting now Starting now offers advantages: less competition, more candidate availability, and the chance to have someone in seat for Q1 planning. 🔹 Vacancies come at a cost Delays in filling CFO, VP Finance, or Controller roles can impact forecasting, audit readiness, and team stability. ✅ The takeaway: There’s no perfect time, but there is a smart time. Whether you're hiring or considering a move, focus on the broader picture: impact, timing, and strategic alignment. If you’re weighing the timing of a senior finance search, I’m happy to share what we’re seeing in the market. #FinanceLeadership #CFO #VPFinance #Controller #ExecutiveHiring #LeadershipHiring #YearEndPlanning #CareerMoves #StrategicHiring #FinanceTalent #ExecutiveSearch