Is CourtesyMasters a headhunter or recruitment agency?
Both. CourtesyMasters combines discreet headhunting, executive search and specialist hospitality recruitment, and has done so since 1999. For senior or confidential roles we often act as headhunters; for broader hiring needs we operate as a specialist recruitment and search partner with deep hospitality knowledge.
Detailed answer
CourtesyMasters combines discreet headhunting, executive search and specialist hospitality recruitment, and has done so since 1999. Which approach is used depends on the role.
When does CourtesyMasters work as a headhunter?
For senior, scarce or confidential roles, the right person is usually not applying anywhere. CourtesyMasters then approaches specific professionals directly and discreetly, across operations and management, culinary and F&B, and commercial and support functions. Every approach protects the candidate's current position.
When is it executive search?
For leadership appointments, such as General Managers, hotel directors, regional directors and C-level roles, the work runs as an executive search. It starts with an intake with your board, ownership group or leadership team, and leads to a shortlist of fewer, stronger candidates, each presented with leadership track record, P&L exposure and assessment insights.
When is it recruitment?
For broader hiring needs, CourtesyMasters works as a specialist recruitment agency. The recruitment service covers permanent placements across all hospitality departments and levels, from role profiling and search to assessment, introduction and offer support.
And when time is short?
For an immediate leadership gap, CourtesyMasters places interim professionals from its own pool, typically within days.
What stays the same?
Whichever approach fits your role, a few things do not change:
- one specialism: hospitality, with consultants who know the industry from within
- discretion: every search is confidential, and no CV moves without the candidate's approval
- structured assessment, so you review fewer, stronger candidates
- support through the offer and the onboarding
Which route fits best is discussed in the strategic briefing, based on the seniority and sensitivity of the role. Read more about headhunting, executive search and recruitment.
Related Frequently Asked Questions
What is headhunting?
Headhunting is the direct, proactive approach of specific professionals for a specific role, rather than waiting for applications. It is common for senior, scarce or confidential positions. CourtesyMasters has practised headhunting and direct sourcing for hospitality since 1999, always discreetly and with respect for everyone involved.
What is a boutique executive search firm?
A boutique executive search firm is a small, specialised practice that takes on a limited number of assignments with senior attention, in contrast to large, volume-driven firms. CourtesyMasters has worked this way since 1999: a dedicated team, deep hospitality roots and personal involvement from first briefing to final placement. Read more about us.
What is the difference between executive search and recruitment?
Recruitment typically fills open vacancies through advertising and applications. Executive search works the other way around: a consultant proactively identifies and approaches accomplished professionals, including those not actively looking, and guides both sides through a confidential, structured process. CourtesyMasters combines both disciplines, always with a hospitality focus.
What is executive search?
Executive search is a specialised form of recruitment for senior and hard-to-fill positions. Instead of waiting for applications, a search partner proactively identifies, approaches and assesses proven professionals, often confidentially. CourtesyMasters has applied this craft exclusively to hospitality since 1999, through a structured six-step methodology. Discover more about executive search services.
How can I report recruitment fraud or impersonation involving CourtesyMasters?
If you receive a suspicious message or offer that claims to come from CourtesyMasters, please contact us directly before responding. We will confirm whether the communication is genuine and take action to protect you.
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