Executive recruiting, also known as executive search or headhunting, is a specialized form of recruiting that focuses on finding and placing top-level executives and leaders in an organization. Executive recruiters are typically hired by companies to find and recruit candidates for senior-level positions, such as CEOs, presidents, and vice presidents.
Executive recruiters typically have a deep understanding of the industries and companies they work with, and use their networks and resources to identify and attract top talent. They may conduct interviews, assess candidates’ qualifications, and provide recommendations to the hiring company.
Executive recruiting firms may work on a retained or contingency basis. Retained firms are hired upfront and are paid a percentage of the candidate’s first-year salary. Contingency firms are only paid if they successfully place a candidate and are typically paid a percentage of the candidate’s first-year salary.
Executive recruiting can be a highly competitive field, and executive recruiters are often experienced professionals with extensive networks and expertise in their industries.