It seems it's all happening at Imprint at these days — high-profile departures, approaches to buy the company and a tumbling share price.

As Recruiter went to press the group's share price was in free fall, plunging 36p or 30% to 84.75p as it announced to the Stock Market that its founder and chief executive Brian Hamill had resigned and was leaving with immediate effect.

It was revealed that the exiting Hamill has made a bid to acquire both the Wood Hamill and Imprint Search and Selection branded businesses. However, the deal is not straightforward as it is subject to regulatory clearance, and may not go down too well with shareholders as the group admits it may impact on future results.

In addition, at the beginning of the month it agreed in principle to sell the business and assets of its regional operations in Birmingham, Manchester and Leeds — all ECHM offices — to the operations director David Colgrave. The deal is not for the whole ECHM business, which continues to have offices in London and Amsterdam, and the name remains licensed to Imprint.

The company also revealed that it remains in talks with a party interested in acquiring its shares. Discussions have been in motion since 7 September, but Imprint seems no closer to knowing whether a firm bid will be made.

And market rumours persist that OPD Group may re-enter the picture and make a new bid for Imprint. Landsbanki, the broker, believes that OPD is having a second look and that a bid is imminent. However, the attraction of the company may diminish if it continues to dispose of its assets.

Also putting off potential buyers is news that the group's results for September were below the boards' expectations. Imprint blames the performance on uncertainties regarding its future ownership, saying it has affected its ability to retain and recruit consultants. However, despite this disappointing performance, the board remains optimistic and says it is on a sound financial footing and its prospects remain strong.

What happens next is anybody guess, so watch this space.