What term describes a person who controls a company?

The term that describes a person who controls a company is "Owner." An owner is typically someone who holds legal title to a business or company and has the authority to make significant decisions regarding its operations and direction. Owners can be sole proprietors, partners in a partnership, or shareholders in a corporation. They are responsible for the overall governance of the company and have a vested interest in its success.

While stakeholders play a role in the business (as anyone with an interest in the company, such as employees or suppliers), they do not have direct control over it. Managers are responsible for the day-to-day operations and can influence decisions, but they do not possess ownership rights. Investors provide capital to the business which can entitle them to a share of profits but they typically do not exert control like an owner does.