In a major private equity move, Heidrick & Struggles International, a global executive search and leadership consulting firm, is preparing to go private through a $1.3 billion acquisition led by Advent International and Corvex Private Equity.
Deal Highlights
Shareholders will receive $59 per share, reflecting a 21% premium over the stock’s last closing price—the highest it has reached in over two decades. The transaction is expected to close in the first quarter of 2026, pending regulatory approvals.
CEO Tom Monahan is slated to remain at the helm, guiding the company through the transition into private ownership. Analysts view this deal as part of a larger trend of private equity buyouts, as investors seek stable, high-value firms to acquire amid market fluctuations.
Strategic Implications
Going private allows Heidrick & Struggles to streamline operations, pursue long-term growth strategies, and invest in innovation without the pressures of public markets. The partnership with Advent International and Corvex Private Equity also positions the firm to explore potential expansion into new markets and service lines, including advisory services that intersect with emerging technologies and digital assets.
This acquisition highlights the continuing strength of private equity in identifying high-value targets in both traditional and emerging sectors. For investors and market observers, it underscores how private ownership can provide the flexibility needed to navigate evolving industry landscapes while unlocking value over the long term.
