Recruiting Basics

Hiring Manager

A hiring manager is the person who requests a new hire, defines the role's requirements, and makes the final selection decision for their team. Typically the future employee's direct supervisor, the hiring manager partners with recruiters to evaluate candidates, conduct interviews, and approve the offer, owning the outcome and success of the hire.

What does a hiring manager do?

A hiring manager initiates a job requisition, defines the responsibilities and qualifications for a role, and ultimately decides who to hire. They collaborate with recruiters throughout the process, reviewing shortlisted candidates, conducting interviews, and assessing fit against the team's needs. Because the new hire usually reports to them, hiring managers are accountable for the quality of the decision and for the new employee's onboarding and performance.

How do hiring managers and recruiters work together?

Recruiters and hiring managers form a partnership: recruiters handle sourcing, screening, scheduling, and candidate experience, while hiring managers provide role expertise, evaluate technical and cultural fit, and make the final call. A strong intake meeting at the start aligns both on requirements, must-have skills, and the ideal candidate profile. Clear communication and shared scorecards keep the process efficient and reduce bias in decisions.

FAQ

Hiring Manager — FAQs

What is the difference between a hiring manager and a recruiter? +
A recruiter sources, screens, and coordinates candidates and owns the hiring process logistics, while the hiring manager defines the role, evaluates fit for their team, and makes the final hiring decision. The hiring manager is typically the new employee's direct supervisor.
Who makes the final hiring decision? +
In most organizations the hiring manager makes the final decision, since the new hire will work on their team. Recruiters and interview panels provide input and recommendations, but accountability for the choice and its outcome rests with the hiring manager.
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