Heidrick & Struggles(HSII) - 2025 Q1 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - First quarter revenue reached approximately $284 million, marking a 7% increase compared to Q1 2024 [22] - Adjusted EBITDA improved by$ 3.3 million to $29.1 million, with an adjusted EBITDA margin expanding by 50 basis points to 10.3% [22] - Adjusted net income for the quarter was$ 14.2 million, consistent with the previous year [28] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Executive Search revenue grew 6% to $213 million, with adjusted EBITDA of$ 52.3 million and an adjusted EBITDA margin of 24.5% [25][26] - On Demand Talent revenue increased 12% to $43 million, achieving adjusted EBITDA of$ 400,000 compared to a loss of $900,000 in the prior year [26] - Heidrick Consulting saw organic revenue increase 7% year over year to$ 28 million, but recorded an adjusted EBITDA loss of $2.1 million [27] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue increases in Executive Search were noted across regions: 6% in The Americas, 9% in Europe, and 1% in APAC [25] - European performance was strong across various sectors, including technology, financial services, and industrials [62] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to be the most trusted leadership partner for the C-suite and board, focusing on leadership talent [12] - There is a commitment to grow executive search and assessment capabilities, which are seen as cornerstones of the enterprise [13] - The strategy includes staying close to clients and adapting to their changing needs, particularly in times of economic uncertainty [10][11] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged the current tumultuous operating environment but emphasized strong results and resilience [4][5] - There is a recognition that client caution may affect decision-making in the second half of the year [8] - The company remains confident in its ability to navigate the evolving landscape and drive long-term value for shareholders [30] Other Important Information - The company ended the first quarter with a strong cash position of$ 325 million, up from $253 million in March 2024 [28] - The second quarter revenue is expected to be within the range of$ 285 million to $305 million, compared to$ 279 million in Q2 2024 [29] Q&A Session Summary Question: Insights on past disruptions and their relevance to current circumstances - Management noted that while segments may slow during economic distress, they are not currently seeing this impact [35] - They highlighted the importance of their business attributes, such as no debt and a diversified business mix, in weathering economic storms [36][38] Question: Thoughts on cash usage and acquisition pipeline - Management indicated that cash flow is being managed to pay out earn-out payments from past acquisitions, while also prioritizing organic investments [40][41] Question: Trends in M&A activity and its impact on client demand - M&A activity creates opportunities for the company to engage with clients on leadership and cultural integration [45][46] Question: Profitability expectations for Heidrick Consulting and On Demand Talent - Management expects both segments to move towards profitability, with long-term guidance remaining intact [68] Question: Demand trends among different end markets, particularly financial services - Demand has been broad-based across sectors, with financial services performing well [73]