head-hunting

head-hunting  {n.},  {slang},  {informal}

1. The custom of seeking out, decapitating, and preserving the heads of enemies as trophies.

2. A search for qualified individuals to fill certain positions.

The president sent a committee to the colleges and universities to do some head-hunting; we hope he finds some young talent.

3. A systematic destruction of opponents, especially in politics.