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Executive Headhunter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

We are seeking a seasoned Recruiter with expertise in executive headhunting and direct sourcing. In this role, you will focus on identifying and recruiting top-tier talent for a variety of critical ...

Account Executive

$150K - $180K/yr

The ideal candidate combines a headhunter mindset with enterprise sales acumen and can create executive-level conversations around AI adoption, governance, and operationalization. What You'll Own:

IT Manager

San Diego, CA · On-site

$100K - $123K/yr

... Executive Search Firms, Cleveland Executive Tech Recruiting, Columbus Technical Recruiters, Dallas Recruiters for IT, Denver Technology Headhunters, Detroit IT Headhunters, Fort Lauderdale ...

It's what sets us apart, and the reason our employees have been turning down headhunters for years ... As an Account Executive in our National Healthcare division, you will be responsible for delivering ...

... headhunters, recruitment agencies, or fee-based recruitment services. SS&C Technologies offers a comprehensive total rewards package designed to support your wellbeing, growth, and future. Our ...

It's what sets us apart, and the reason our employees have been turning down headhunters for years ... As an Account Executive in our National Healthcare division, you will be responsible for delivering ...

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Executive Headhunter information

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$26.5K

$93.6K

$184K

How much do executive headhunter jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for executive headhunter in the United States is $93,552.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,000.00 and $120,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an executive headhunter do?

An executive headhunter, also known as a recruiter or search consultant, identifies and attracts highly qualified candidates for senior-level positions on behalf of organizations. They conduct candidate sourcing, screening, and interviews, often using industry networks and specialized tools to match candidates with executive roles. Their goal is to fill leadership positions efficiently and with suitable candidates.

What are Executive Headhunters?

Executive headhunters are specialized recruitment professionals who focus on finding and attracting top-level executives and senior management talent for organizations. They work on behalf of companies to identify, approach, and assess highly qualified candidates, often for roles that require unique skills or leadership experience. Executive headhunters typically use their extensive networks and industry knowledge to discreetly fill critical positions, such as CEOs, CFOs, or other C-suite roles. Their goal is to match the right executive talent with the strategic needs of their clients.

How much does an executive headhunter cost?

Executive headhunters typically charge a fee equal to 20% to 35% of the candidate's first-year total compensation, including base salary and bonuses. This fee is usually paid by the employer and can vary based on the industry, seniority level, and the complexity of the search.

Who are the big five headhunters?

The big five headhunters are globally recognized executive search firms: Korn Ferry, Spencer Stuart, Russell Reynolds Associates, Heidrick & Struggles, and Egon Zehnder. These firms specialize in recruiting senior executives and often operate across multiple industries and regions, utilizing extensive networks and assessment tools.

How to become an executive headhunter?

To become an executive headhunter, develop strong networking and communication skills, gain experience in recruiting or human resources, and build industry knowledge in your target sector. Many professionals pursue a bachelor's degree in business, HR, or related fields, and some obtain certifications like the Certified Executive Search Professional (CESP). Success also depends on establishing relationships with clients and candidates, often requiring persistence and industry expertise.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Executive Headhunter, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Executive Headhunter, you need a strong understanding of talent acquisition, industry-specific knowledge, and experience in executive search or recruitment, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with applicant tracking systems (ATS), CRM software, and professional networking platforms like LinkedIn is crucial. Exceptional interpersonal skills, persuasive communication, and resilience help build trust with both clients and candidates. These abilities ensure the effective sourcing and placement of top-level executives, driving organizational success and client satisfaction.

What are some challenges Executive Headhunters commonly face when sourcing top-level candidates?

Executive Headhunters often encounter challenges such as limited talent pools, confidentiality concerns, and the need to match not just skills but also cultural fit at the senior level. Building trust with passive candidates and maintaining discretion throughout the search process are crucial. Additionally, headhunters must navigate complex client expectations and manage multiple high-stakes searches simultaneously, requiring strong project management and communication skills.

What is the difference between Executive Headhunter vs Recruiter?

AspectExecutive HeadhunterRecruiter
CredentialsExperience in executive search, industry-specific knowledgeVaries; often HR or staffing certifications
Work EnvironmentConsults with top-tier clients, focuses on senior rolesWorks with a range of positions, often in staffing agencies
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by firms specializing in executive placementsUsed broadly across industries for various roles
Search & Comparison IntentFocused on high-level, specialized talentBroader, including entry to mid-level roles

While both Executive Headhunters and Recruiters identify talent for organizations, Executive Headhunters specialize in sourcing senior executives and often work on a retained basis, providing tailored, high-level search services. Recruiters typically handle a wider range of roles across industries and may work on contingency or retained basis. Understanding these differences helps organizations choose the right partner for their hiring needs.

What cities are hiring for Executive Headhunter jobs? Cities with the most Executive Headhunter job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Headhunter jobs? The most popular types of Headhunter jobs are:
What states have the most Executive Headhunter jobs? States with the most job openings for Executive Headhunter jobs include:

Other

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Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

Role Overview:

We are seeking a seasoned Recruiter with expertise in executive headhunting and direct sourcing. In this role, you will focus on identifying and recruiting top-tier talent for a variety of critical positions, including client partners, product managers, software developers, and other strategic roles. This is a growth role and an area of expansion for us as we become the partner of choice for many businesses looking to expand with us for their AI-powered digital transformations. Additionally, you will play a key role in shaping and enhancing our organizational culture by bringing in individuals who embody our core values and align with our vision.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Manage the selection process of candidates, including requisition management, position description development, recruitment strategies, candidate selection, reference checks, background checks, and onboarding facilitation.
  • Conduct recruitment strategy meetings with hiring managers to ensure alignment on role requirements, ideal candidate profiles, and sourcing strategies.
  • Develop and execute high-quality recruitment, interviewing, selection, and onboarding processes. Build hiring managers' capabilities in following best practices throughout the talent acquisition lifecycle.
  • Proactively identify and engage top-tier passive candidates through market mapping, networking, and personalized outreach.
  • Conduct thorough candidate prescreening interviews to recommend highly qualified and diverse candidates for open roles.
  • Negotiate competitive compensation packages with candidates, ensuring alignment with organizational policies and market trends.
  • Provide detailed reports to hiring managers regarding the status of open positions, including outreach efforts, candidate responses, and pipeline progress.
  • Promote the company's recruitment brand through active participation in networking events, conferences, and job fairs.
  • Manage candidate communication and relationship-building throughout the recruitment lifecycle. Educate candidates about the company's culture, benefits, and position expectations.
  • Oversee external recruiting sources, vendor agreements, candidate submissions, and invoice processing.
  • Drive outreach efforts to support diversity hiring and inclusive sourcing, participating in events that align with affirmative action goals.
  • Leverage digital tools and creative techniques to optimize recruitment efforts and enhance candidate engagement.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's Degree and 6+ years of experience in talent acquisition or recruitment, preferably in the professional services industry.
  • Proven expertise in headhunting, executive search, and direct sourcing strategies.
  • Strong interpersonal, negotiation, and relationship-building skills with the ability to influence senior-level candidates.
  • Experience working with Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and sourcing tools, particularly Greenhouse and LinkedIn Recruiter.
  • Exceptional organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
  • Outstanding communication and presentation skills with a keen ability to navigate complex recruitment challenges.
  • Demonstrated ability to act independently, exercise good judgment, and adapt to shifting priorities.
  • Familiarity with global business cultures and a results-oriented approach to talent acquisition.

About 10Pearls:

10Pearls is a global, purpose-driven AI-powered digital engineering partner helping businesses re-imagine, digitalize, and accelerate. As an end-to-end digital technology partner, 10Pearls helps businesses create future-proof, transformative digital products that leverage emerging technologies. 10Pearls' clients include Global 2000 enterprises, high-growth mid-size businesses, and some of the most exciting start-ups from industries like healthcare, fintech, energy, education, real estate, retail, and hi-tech. Headquartered in the Washington DC metro area, 10Pearls has product engineering and software development centers in North America, Latin America, Europe, and South Asia. To learn more, visit https://10pearls.com.   

We offer a competitive compensation package, including the below benefits for full-time employees: 

  • Strong medical, dental, and vision plans with 60% of premiums for employees and their dependents covered by 10Pearls
  • Employer-funded health reimbursement account (HRA) for the high deductible health plan option
  • Generous 401(k) plan with a 4% employer match and immediate vesting after 90 days of employment
  • Paid time off for vacation, sick/wellness, and personal leave; separate paid parental leave program
  • Employer-paid short-term, long-term, life, and AD&D insurance
  • Additional voluntary insurance programs, including life & AD&D, critical illness, cancer, and hospital indemnity for employees and dependents
  • Full access to Tysons Corner Headquarters office with amenities: a state-of-the-art gym, a fully stocked kitchen with snacks and cold brew coffee on tap, and free parking on-site.

10Pearls is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to maintaining a diverse workplace.