Headhunter

Independent employment service (or individual) that seeks out personnel for high-level executive positions; formally known as an executive search company (or consultant). Headhunters are generally used by companies that are looking outside their present staff to fill executive positions.

Private employment agency specializing in the recruiting of professional and managerial personnel; also called executive search firm. The fees charged by these agencies range up to one-third of the first year's total salary and bonus package for the job to be filled.