H1b transfer during trip to India?

[patshook]

I am a recruiter specialzing in experienced highly technical I.T. (SAP software)professionals. My candidate, an experienced SAP Analyst, is traveling to India on 1/21/06 & returning 2/18/06 - vacation. My client may make him an offer before he leaves.

Can he begin the transfer of his H1b from his existing employer to the new employer before he leaves? and re-enter USA on his existing H1B visa?

Thank you in advance.

Pat Shook