Heidrick & Struggles Going Private in $1.3B Deal

By Ahmed Jameison • Monday, October 06 10:09 • Permanent Link

Heidrick & Struggles International Inc. (NASDAQ: HSII) has announced its entry into a definitive agreement with an investor consortium led by Advent International and Corvex Private Equity to become a private company in a $1.3 billion all-cash transaction. Under the terms of the agreement, Heidrick stockholders will receive $59.00 per share in cash, representing a premium of approximately 26% to Heidrick’s 90-day volume-weighted average price per share.

The transaction is expected to close by the first quarter of 2026, subject to the approval of the company’s stockholders and the satisfaction of required regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions. Upon closing, Heidrick will no longer be listed nor traded on the NASDAQ stock market or any public exchange.

Heidrick, a premier global leadership advisor, will continue to focus on rapidly advancing its global leadership positions in executive search, interim talent solutions, leadership assessment and development, as well as purpose, culture, and performance consulting. The company will be led by its current leadership team following the conclusion of the transaction.

The consortium of investors acquiring Heidrick will include a significant investment from many Heidrick leaders and several prominent family offices. Advent and Corvex have secured committed debt financing for the transaction from Deutsche Bank, UBS Investment Bank, and Santander.

Advent International, a leading global private equity investor, oversees more than USD $100 billion in assets under management and has made 435 investments across 44 countries. Corvex Private Equity, co-founded in 2024 by Joe Costa, seeks to invest in durable franchises with deep customer relationships, partnering with management teams and aligned investors to drive long-term value.

The transaction represents a significant and immediate cash value for Heidrick stockholders while positioning the company to attract, retain, and develop exceptional talent to deliver unrivaled client impact. Upon completion, Heidrick aims to invest in the people, technologies, and innovative solutions needed to create unrivaled value for current and future clients, including implementing a new equity plan for current and future partners and leaders.

Heidrick & Struggles will continue to maintain its headquarters in Chicago, Illinois, and operate under the Heidrick & Struggles name and brand. The company is known for providing global leadership advisory and on-demand talent solutions, serving the senior-level talent and consulting needs of the world’s top organizations. As a result of these announcements, the company's shares have moved 0.12% on the market, and are now trading at a price of $48.68. For the full picture, make sure to review HEIDRICK & STRUGGLES INTERNATIONAL INC's 8-K report.

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