Thanks Purple and Setanta12 for your replies.
Yes, Setanta12, you are right - self-employed is the aim for my friend's business as he really cannot afford, nor want, an employee. the agent will have full control over the hours s/he works and the methods engaged in recruiting clients. From what I understand, the bottom line will be an increase in numbers in the end. Each client pays the same amount so the quantity is the aim.
Given that there will be very little overheads for the agent, is there a general percentage rate paid in these circumstances e.g. 35%, 45%?