Executive Search
Direct and confidential approach to identifying, attracting and inspiring high-caliber executives for our clients’ missions — based on deep understanding of business needs and goals.
What is executive search
Exclusive recruitment for senior roles
Executive search is an exclusive recruitment service for highly qualified candidates for senior-level and executive positions — CEO, CFO, COO, HRD, and CIO. It is used for:
Top executive and senior management roles. Roles where defined and unique skills and experience are required. Roles requiring high confidentiality. Clients ready to partner when attracting the best talent on board.
In Bulgaria, recruitment is a licensed activity — a freelance consultant cannot legally perform headhunting. Horizons Bulgaria conducts confidential research of candidates already working in competitors or related companies.
A proactive recruitment approach
The logic of executive search is opposite to standard selection — the employing party is the active side that proactively searches and offers opportunities to the best relevant executives in the industry.
It requires knowledge of the marketplace, valuable contacts at every level in industry, and awareness of current trends. Assignments are delivered by dedicated teams of experienced consultants specialized in direct talent acquisition.
The service also includes confidential market mapping to support current and future management talent needs.
Executive search stages
Research & Planning — market analysis, development of a road map of companies and individuals from contacts, referrals, and existing network.
Candidate Contact — potential candidates identified and contacted in confidence to ascertain competencies, career achievements, and future aspirations.
Qualifying Candidates — final stage candidates interviewed and assessed on leadership, motivation, tolerance under stress, and other key aspects.
Presenting the Short List — discussion with the client about shortlisted professionals, determining suitability and understanding career aspirations.
Interview Process & Offer Negotiation — preparation and facilitation of expectations at interview and offer stage, pre-closing for the successful hire.
Resignation & Transition — counsel and facilitation of communication regarding salary terms, resignation issues, and counter offers.
Assignment Review — debrief with the client, establishing areas for improvement and discussing future search assignments.
Onboarding — following up on the successful transition in the first months after the hire starts work with the client.
What executive search services we offer
Targeted recruitment
Identifying and recruiting top-tier candidates for C-suite and senior positions — CEO, CFO, CIO, and niche professional roles requiring specific expertise.
Specialized knowledge
Deep industry knowledge and understanding of market trends — assessing candidates not just on resumes, but on cultural and strategic fit within a company.
Networking & headhunting
Proactive headhunting reaching candidates not actively seeking a new job — using extensive networks and databases to find individuals meeting very specific criteria.
Confidential recruitment
Highly confidential processes protecting both client and candidates’ privacy — crucial when recruiting for positions not yet publicly known to be open.
Consultative approach
Working closely with the client to understand needs and strategic goals — advising on job description, salary benchmarking, leadership qualities, and long-term impact.
EOR — Staff leasing
Licensed temp agency PEO under the Labour Code — payroll, taxes, HR tasks, and compliance with local employment laws handled for you.
Useful resources
Find your next senior leader
Tell us about the role and we’ll take it from there.