Page Overton managing director Colin Ransom sold the business to Nigel Williams, who has 35 years’ sales experience in paper, security print and technology industries.

Ranson said: “We are what you would call a 'boutique' team – not one of the biggies like Mercury and Harrison Scott – and we are not a traditional agency.

“We are head-hunters pure and simple: you won't find us advertising very often and we target people at a senior level. We are very discreet.”

He would not give turnover or takeover details but Page Overton employs two staff and others on a franchise basis when needed. The company outsources its research work.

“But we aim to take on two more staff in about six months,” added Ranson, who is now a consultant and will stay with the company for about a year before retiring.

Williams has worked for manufacturers such as Georgia Pacific, Domtar and De La Rue, handling sales of security paper for banknotes, passports and other high-security documents.

Ransom said: “Whereas I take a lead in paper and packaging as well as some printing, Nigel will focus on the security side.

“We are not recruiters first and foremost, we are industry people who got into recruiting and we will keep this work ethic. We will continue to take on industry people and train them to recruit.”

Williams said he planned “substantial growth” for Page Overton and wanted to  expand its offering into security paper, print and technology.

Ransom said: “This is a substantial move forward for Page Overton, adding to its offering whilst maintaining its reputation.

“It is pleasing our new MD, in common with others within Page Overton, is primarily an  industry expert, rather than just recruiters who work in the industry.”

Page Overton was launched in the 1980 by Des Page, who died earlier this year. Ransom of M4R bought the company in 2002.