
Meet Our Founder, Patrick Leitch

Our story starts in Seattle, Washington, but it's really a story of finding our place, building our expertise, and ultimately, creating Spotlight Search Partners. Like many, we didn't take a direct path. College in Kentucky, a far cry from the Pacific Northwest, led us to Nashville, Tennessee, where we're raising our sons. It's home now, and we couldn't imagine it any other way.
With a B.S. in Finance, we were eager to dive into the business world. We landed at a small, dynamic Nashville company, and for seven years, we poured our hearts into it. We climbed from entry-level to Director of Operations, learning the ins and outs of finance and accounting, and understanding what it truly takes to make a business thrive. When the company was acquired, it was a turning point. We realized we had a passion for building, for connecting, and for understanding the intricate workings of successful businesses.
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In 2019, we were recruited by one of the nation's largest recruiting firms, and it felt like a natural progression. We were ready to apply our experience in a new way. That first year, we were awarded Rookie of the Year, a recognition that validated our drive and our ability to connect with people. It wasn't just about filling roles; it was about understanding the nuances of each company and each candidate.
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The years that followed solidified our commitment to excellence. We consistently earned the Echelon Award, a testament to our dedication and performance within the Accounting & Finance Direct Hire division. 2019: Rookie of the Year. 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024: Echelon Award Winner. Except for 2020, of course. That year, the world paused, and so did the awards. The pandemic challenged us all, but it also reinforced our belief in the importance of resilience and connection.
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Now, with Spotlight Search Partners, we're channeling all of that experience into a firm that's built on integrity, expertise, and a genuine desire to help businesses and professionals thrive. We've been in the trenches, we've seen success, and we understand the importance of finding the right fit. This isn't just a job for us; it's a mission to connect exceptional talent with exceptional opportunities.
Why Choose Spotlight Search Partners?
01.
Specialized Expertise: Our focus is on specialized expertise. We excel at placing top-tier talent within the complex landscapes of M&A, Finance, and Accounting, particularly within PE/VC and publicly traded environments. We understand those unique challenges, and that's where we deliver real value.
02.
Boutique Service, National Reach: We offer a boutique service with national reach. You'll get personalized attention and a dedicated partnership from us, combined with the expansive network necessary to find the best candidates nationwide. It's about giving you the best of both worlds.
03.
Proven Track Record: We have a proven track record. With over 10 years of experience and a history of satisfied clients, we deliver consistent and successful outcomes. We've built our reputation on getting results.
04.
Our process is strategic and transparent. Our intake, go-to-market, and vetting strategies are meticulously designed for alignment and trust, ensuring a strong candidate fit. We prioritize clear communication and a process you can rely on.
05.
High Fill Rate & Core Values: We prioritize a high fill rate and strong core values. We believe in integrity, trust, and execution, and that translates to exceptional fill rates and a commitment to your long-term success. We're invested in finding the right fit, not just filling a role.


