Monster has apologised for an email from one of its sales representatives which claimed recruitment agencies were charging employers “an inflated rate” to use certain recruitment tools.

The apology was sent to members of The Employment Agents Movement (TEAM) after the email fell into the hands of recruiters and created a furore when posted on an online forum.

The email read in part: ‘The agencies are using Monster’s CV database to source candidates for you and then charging you an inflated rate to fill the vacancy. I’ll be able to offer you … the same tools that your agencies are using for a fraction of the cost.’

One recruiter criticised the job board for “biting the hand that feeds them” in an online posting.

“These comments in no way reflect Monster’s policies or views,” said a Monster spokesperson.