The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word HEADHUNT
I've seen this crossword clue in Financial Times
H
E
A
D
H
U
N
T
More clues leading to the result HEADHUNT
Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "Recruit" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case recruit = headhunt.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does HEADHUNT mean?
HEADHUNT verb- To cut off, and preserve, the heads of one's enemies
- To actively recruit executive personnel
- To pitch at a batter's head.
- To use one's hockey stick to strike an opponent's head.