Heidrick & Struggles Shareholders Approve $1.3 Billion Buyout

Shareholders of leadership advisory firm Heidrick & Struggles have overwhelmingly voted in favor of a takeover by a private equity consortium, clearing the final major hurdle to delist the company from public markets. The $1.3 billion acquisition is slated for completion as early as next week.

During a virtual special meeting held Friday, approximately 86% of the voting rights represented were cast in support of the merger agreement initially reached in October. Under the terms, shareholders will receive $59.00 in cash for each share they own. This price represents a premium of roughly 26% over the stock’s 90-day volume-weighted average.

Trading just below the offer price at $58.94 recently, the company’s equity has already reflected the market’s anticipation of the deal’s successful closure. The board of directors unanimously recommended the transaction, highlighting the significant and immediate cash value it delivers to investors.

Gaining Strategic Flexibility

The move to take Heidrick & Struggles private is strategically motivated by a desire for greater operational flexibility. Freed from the short-term quarterly pressures of public markets, the firm aims to pursue longer-term investments and strategic initiatives. This shift aligns with a broader trend observed within the professional services sector.

Financing for the buyout has been secured by the consortium, which is led by Advent International and Corvex Private Equity, with debt funding arranged through major banks including Deutsche Bank.

Should investors sell immediately? Or is it worth buying Heidrick, Struggles?

The company’s latest operational performance, reported ahead of the ownership transition, demonstrates underlying strength. For the third quarter of 2025, Heidrick & Struggles posted a 15.9% increase in net revenue, which reached $322.8 million.

Regulatory Clearance and Timeline

Key regulatory approvals, including antitrust clearances in the United States, Germany, and Australia, have already been obtained. With shareholder consent now secured, only customary closing conditions remain.

The parties expect to finalize the transaction on or about December 10, 2025. Following completion, Heidrick & Struggles shares will be delisted from the Nasdaq Global Select Market.

Looking ahead, private ownership is expected to facilitate the firm’s continued global expansion, service offering development, and increased investment in talent. The current executive team, led by Chief Executive Officer Tom Monahan, will remain in place following the acquisition.