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.
Detailed answer
In hospitality, executive search is used for the appointments that shape a property or a group for years. A senior leader's decisions show up in the guest experience, in brand standards and in the profit and loss account, which is why the search starts with your organisation and its goals, not with a job description.
Which roles call for executive search?
Executive search is used for senior and hard-to-fill positions: General Managers and hotel directors, regional directors and regional vice presidents, and C-level roles up to a full executive committee. CourtesyMasters runs these mandates for independent hotels, chain-affiliated properties and portfolios backed by ownership groups or private equity, as well as for resorts, casinos, private members' clubs, fine-dining concepts and lifestyle groups.
The strongest leaders for these roles rarely browse vacancies. They have to be found, and approached in confidence.
How does an executive search work?
It begins with a thorough intake with your board, ownership group or leadership team. Together you define the strategic goals, the brand positioning and what success in the role should look like.
From there, the house maps the market across chain-affiliated and independent hotels, benchmarks competitor appointments and builds an outreach plan that fits the seniority and ownership structure of the role. Suitable candidates are approached discreetly, both those open to a move and those who are not looking. They are assessed through structured interviews, cultural fit indicators and behavioural assessment, with cognitive and leadership assessments where the role calls for them.
You receive a shortlist of fewer, stronger candidates. Each profile covers the leadership track record, P&L exposure and assessment insights, with an expert view on potential, risks and cultural alignment. CourtesyMasters then supports the offer negotiation and the onboarding, and stays involved during the first months. See how this works in our methodology.
How is the search kept confidential?
Every search is confidential from the first conversation. CourtesyMasters regularly runs confidential leadership searches and sensitive replacement assignments, with discreet outreach, a controlled flow of information and careful candidate screening. You are kept informed at every step, without being pulled into the process itself.
Executive search, recruitment or headhunting?
Recruitment usually works by advertising a vacancy and selecting from the people who apply. Executive search works the other way round: the consultant identifies and approaches accomplished professionals, including people who are not looking, and guides both sides through a structured, confidential process. Headhunting, the direct approach of specific professionals for a specific role, is common for senior, scarce or confidential positions. CourtesyMasters offers recruitment, headhunting and executive search in hospitality, and the right route depends on the seniority and sensitivity of the role.
How is an executive search paid for?
Fees are agreed in advance for each assignment. They are typically fixed or percentage-based, structured in phases, for example at the start, at the shortlist and at the hire, and exclusive of VAT and third-party costs. Scope, model and fee are confirmed in a signed agreement or assignment confirmation before the search begins. Our terms for employers explain how this works.
Planning a leadership appointment? Share it with us through a request for proposal.
Related Frequently Asked Questions
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.
Where is CourtesyMasters headquartered?
CourtesyMasters is headquartered in The Hague, The Netherlands, and works internationally from hubs in Madrid, Florence, Rome, London, Monaco and Cannes. See our locations for the full overview.
When was CourtesyMasters founded?
CourtesyMasters was founded in Rotterdam, The Netherlands, in 1999. From Rotterdam to the world: over more than twenty-five years we have grown into an international hospitality search partner built on trust and discretion, working today from our headquarters in The Hague. Read more in our story.
What methodology does CourtesyMasters use to place candidates?
CourtesyMasters uses a structured six-step methodology built on over 25 years of hospitality search experience: strategic briefing, targeted search intelligence, assessment, collaborative shortlisting, offer and closure support, and post-hire follow-through. Every step is designed to protect confidentiality, quality and long-term fit. Discover our methodology in detail.
How can I speak to someone directly?
You can reach CourtesyMasters directly by phone on +31-703227630, by email at info@courtesymasters.com, or through our booking page or contact form. We respond personally and direct your enquiry to the right consultant or partner, whether your question concerns a confidential hire, a career move or a private staffing request.
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