+ What is the difference between a head hunter, recruiter, and executive search firm/consultant?

Headhunter vs. Recruiter vs. Executive Search Consultant

For Whom They Work

Headhunter - Always works for candidates, not the hiring organization/client.

Recruiter - Generally employed by the organization hiring, although they can also be third-party individuals.

Executive Search Consultant - Always works for the hiring organization or client, not candidates.

Fees

Headhunter - Always works on a contingency basis. There is no fee unless a hire is made.

Recruiter - Recruitment is the work done for their employer. Third-party recruiters always work on a contingency basis.

Executive Search Consultant - Never works on a contingency basis and always requires a retainer/professional fee deposit before starting search activities.

Securing Candidates

Headhunter - Locates candidates by any means necessary. Candidates are mostly unemployed or looking for a new position.

Recruiter - Commonly posts job openings and allows qualified candidates to contact them first. Often works to fill multiple positions at once and may redirect candidates unqualified for one role to another opportunity.

Executive Search Consultant – Conducts research to identify, engage, and entice successful, gainfully employed candidates that are not looking for employment, and who meet the unique needs of the hiring organization/client.

Confidentiality

Headhunter - Doesn’t work on a confidential basis.

Recruiter - Rarely works on a confidential basis.

Executive Search Consultant - Always works on a confidential basis.

Guarantee

Headhunter - Offers no candidate or performance guarantees.

Recruiter - Offers no candidate or performance guarantees.

Executive Search Consultant – Always offers candidate and/or performance guarantees.

+ What is LeadExec’s retainer or professional fee and what does it include?

A retainer or professional fee is the negotiated amount paid in advance to the executive search firm in order to secure the firm’s time, expertise, proprietary tools and processes, client focused service, proven outcomes, and guarantee. Additional costs associated with direct expenses of the search are usual and customary.

+ Does LeadExec specialize in an industry?

While LeadExec has a highly regarded higher education practice, the team has proven equally effective leading senior executive searches across multiple industries. It is LeadExec’s expertise in the search process and approach, as well as our curiosity, intelligence, and continual learning which are critical and differentiating, allowing LeadExec to work effectively in various organizations and industries.

+ Does LeadExec conduct only C-suite/Senior Leadership searches?

Our practice has been built identifying and engaging the most successful senior-level leaders, and convincing them to consider client opportunities. Because we are committed to the broad success of our clients, we focus on building a lasting relationship as a strategic partner, and holistically consider their near-term and long-term needs. Thus, we often assess organizational development, succession planning, and support clients' overall success by helping them secure top talent across their organizations - from mid-level manager roles through senior executives.

+ How long does it take for LeadExec to conduct a search?

LeadExec and clients define the expectations of the search in advance of each assignment. This includes an agreed upon timeline for various milestones and deliverables. Depending on the role, market conditions, and client requirements, the timeline for executive searches range between 12 and 17 weeks.