Headhunter Knowledge Hub

Executive Search & Headhunter Guides

Authoritative guides on headhunting, executive search fees, process, and decision-making — written for UK CEOs, Chairs, and HR Directors.

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Essential Reading

What is a Headhunter?

The definitive guide to executive search — what headhunters do, how they work, and why businesses use them for their most important hires.

14 min readRead guide →
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Most Popular

How Much Does a Headhunter Cost in the UK?

A transparent, complete breakdown of executive search fees — pricing models, typical percentages, what influences cost, and how to assess ROI.

12 min readRead guide →
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Comparison

Headhunter vs Recruitment Agency: What's the Difference?

A clear, honest comparison of executive search and recruitment agencies — how they work, when to use each, and what the difference means for the quality of your hire.

10 min readRead guide →
Decision Guide

How to Choose a Headhunter

A practical framework for evaluating and selecting the right executive search firm for your most important appointments.

9 min readRead guide →
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Process Guide

The Executive Search Process: Step by Step

A detailed walkthrough of how a retained executive search works from first briefing to successful placement — what happens, when, and why.

11 min readRead guide →
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Decision Guide

When Should You Use a Headhunter?

A clear framework for deciding when retained executive search is the right approach — and when it is not.

8 min readRead guide →
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Comparison

Retained vs Contingent Executive Search

Understanding the structural differences between retained and contingent search — and what they mean for the quality and reliability of your senior hire.

9 min readRead guide →
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Template Included

How to Write an Executive Search Brief

A practical guide to briefing your headhunter effectively — including a template, common mistakes, and how to get the best from the engagement.

8 min readRead guide →
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Knowledge Hub

The Real Cost of a Bad Senior Hire (And Why Most Boards Underestimate It)

A frank breakdown of what really happens when a senior appointment goes wrong. The £200k role that quietly costs £1 million.

8 min readRead guide →

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