Direct Search &
Headhunting
With direct search, we help organizations find the right key people. In 2025, we successfully conducted over 150 direct searches across various industries covering roles at all levels from expert positions to managers and C-level executives.
We ensure successful hires for demanding and critical roles through our direct search service
Our direct search is built on a data-driven and carefully structured process, combined with strong industry expertise and a deep understanding of the talent market. We act as your partner and identify the right people for roles that are critical to your business.
Why Avila?
Knowledge-Driven & Extensive Database
Innovative data-driven methods
We use award-winning screening and analytics processes to harness and refine our knowledge of the candidate and labour market. We enrich our extensive database with the help of various external and internal data sources. In this way, we ensure that the decisions and activities made during the direct search process are always supported by up-to-date and real-time data.
Industry-specificity & Communication
Communication in accordance with the industry and employer image
We ensure that we communicate to candidates professionally and in accordance with their industry. We talk more than 12,000 hours with candidates each year. We guarantee that we convey organization’s values and culture in a way that attracts candidates to the opportunities it offers, whilst maintaining a positive employer image throughout the recruitment process.
Values for the client & Process flow
Comprehensive direct search service and transparent process
Our data-driven process ensures that the search proceeds transparently and that all stakeholders understand the choices and decisions made in the direct search. We ensure that our services are perceived as high quality through a clear process and straightforward communication. We communicate openly and regularly, without overloading the recruiting manager. Our customer communications are supported by an easy-to-use customer portal that complies with GDPR regulations.
Steps of our Direct Search process
Our process ensures that the direct search proceeds consistently and within the agreed timeframe. We share search analytics and our findings transparently throughout recruitment.
1.
Initiating collaboration
- Start within 24 hours of decision
- Situational analysis, action plan and opening of the customer portal
- Direct search project begins
2.
Starting a direct search
- Internationally award-winning analytics and screening process
- Presentation of the candidate list and communication plan
- Direct contacting and Avila’s interviewing process
3.
Implementation in collaboration
- Presentation of candidates and results
- Interviews with the client
- Psychological Assessments
4.
Selection & Summary
- Reference check
- Recruitment decision and signing of the employment contract
- Feedback and follow-up of the recruitment
- 12-month hiring guarantee
Our service promise
Industry-specific
We offer personalized service. We get to know the industry and organization and we communicate to candidates in accordance with the company’s values.
Transparency
We lead with knowledge, anticipate and recommend the best solution models, and support in the decision-making.
Quality
Our experienced professionals ensure that our clients and candidates always receive a high quality and custom-tailored service.
Efficiency
We start the direct search inmediately after the recruitment decision. We always work within the agreed timeframe and guide the process with clear steps.
Candidate experience and employer image
Continuous dialogue with candidates
We maintain an open and transparent dialogue from the beginning of the recruitment process until the recruitment decision. We support candidates throughout the process and ensure a positive recruitment experience. We will always keep candidates informed about the progress of the recruitment and of any negative recruitment decisions.
Tailored communication
Avila’s HR professional communicates to the candidates according to their industry. Each recruitment is supported by extensive research, which contributes to the implementation of a customised communication plan.
Feedback to the client
We always give our candidates the opportunity for mutual feedback. As part of our transparent communication model, we share candidates feedback from the process with the client.
Do you need support with recruitment?
Contact us, we’ll be happy to help you find your next key employee.
Explore our expert content & client references
Read more about our client success stories, observations on the job market and tips for recruitment and personnel selection situations.
Tips for successful recruitments before the summer holiday season begins
Executive recruitment: how to assess leadership in an uncertain operating environment?
