Artificial Intelligence (AI) provides unprecedented possibilities to accelerate and improve the hiring process. However, the willingness of recruiters to use–and in turn–profit from AI is crucial. Perceptions of human resource (HR) experts on AI-based hiring has been explored further in an empirical study, which is partly shown in this paper. As the existing body of research is still small, an inductive approach was chosen. We conducted seven semi-structured expert interviews with recruiters from the German manufacturing industry. Based on the findings, we developed a conceptual model with testable hypotheses and practical implications. Noticeably, the recruiters both praised and criticised AI for providing a fact-based assessment of candidates. AI’s increased efficiency was recognised as a major opportunity or even necessity. The most promising approach seems to be a tandem of human and algorithmic decision-making, each offsetting the shortcomings of the other.