Heidrick & Struggles International (HSII) 10-K 23 Mar 17 2016 FY Annual report Financial data

Document and Entity Information

Document and Entity Information - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Mar. 10, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016
Document And Entity Information [Abstract]
Document Type	10-K
Amendment Flag	false
Document Period End Date	Dec. 31, 2016
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2,016
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Trading Symbol	HSII
Entity Registrant Name	HEIDRICK & STRUGGLES INTERNATIONAL INC
Entity Central Index Key	1,066,605
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Filer Category	Accelerated Filer
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		18,670,901
Entity Public Float			$ 313,583,642

Consolidated Balance Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 165,011	$ 190,452
Accounts receivable, net	93,191	76,058
Prepaid expenses	21,602	19,197
Other current assets	13,779	18,447
Income taxes recoverable	4,847	4,809
Total current assets	298,430	308,963
Non-current assets:
Property and equipment, net	35,099	36,498
Assets designated for retirement and pension plans	15,698	16,857
Investments	17,346	14,145
Other non-current assets	9,322	11,115
Goodwill	151,844	131,122
Other intangible assets, net	20,690	18,687
Deferred income taxes	33,073	35,331
Total non-current assets	283,072	263,755
Total assets	581,502	572,718
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable	7,952	6,150
Accrued salaries and employee benefits	155,523	158,875
Deferred revenue, net	28,367	29,724
Other current liabilities	24,133	31,239
Income taxes payable	4,617	3,442
Total current liabilities	220,592	229,430
Non-current liabilities:
Employee-related Liabilities, Non-current	34,993	32,690
Retirement and pension plans	39,039	35,949
Other non-current liabilities	28,288	19,847
Total non-current liabilities	102,320	88,486
Total liabilities	322,912	317,916
Commitments and contingencies (Note 20)
Stockholders’ equity:
Preferred stock, $0.01 par value, 10,000,000 shares authorized, no shares issued at December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015	0	0
Common stock, $0.01 par value, 100,000,000 shares authorized, 19,585,777 shares issued, 18,578,176 and 18,379,398 shares outstanding at December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively	196	196
Treasury stock at cost, 1,007,601 and 1,206,379 shares at December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively	(32,915)	(39,583)
Additional paid in capital	229,957	232,358
Retained earnings	58,030	52,572
Accumulated other comprehensive income	3,322	9,259
Total stockholders’ equity	258,590	254,802
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$ 581,502	$ 572,718

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Pa

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) - $ / shares	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Preferred stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Preferred stock, shares authorized	10,000,000	10,000,000
Preferred stock, shares issued	0	0
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Common stock, shares authorized	100,000,000	100,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	19,585,777	19,585,777
Common stock, shares outstanding	18,578,176	18,379,398
Treasury stock, shares	1,007,601	1,206,379

Consolidated Statements of Comp

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Revenue:
Revenue before reimbursements (net revenue)	$ 582,390	$ 531,139	$ 494,292
Reimbursements	18,516	17,172	18,947
Total revenue	600,906	548,311	513,239
Operating expenses:
Salaries and employee benefits	400,070	369,385	337,448
General and administrative expenses	147,087	127,692	130,191
Reimbursed expenses	18,516	17,172	18,947
Total operating expenses	565,673	514,249	486,586
Operating income	35,233	34,062	26,653
Non-operating income (expense):
Interest, net	244	(122)	(358)
Other, net	2,289	(2,386)	(2,108)
Net non-operating income (expense)	2,533	(2,508)	(2,466)
Income before income taxes	37,766	31,554	24,187
Provision for income taxes	22,353	14,422	17,390
Net income	15,413	17,132	6,797
Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax:
Foreign currency translation adjustment	(6,271)	(1,811)	(1,235)
Net unrealized gain (loss) on available-for-sale investments	1,035	(789)	262
Pension gain (loss) adjustment	(701)	714	(2,736)
Unrealized loss on cash flow hedge	0	(78)	(37)
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax	(5,937)	(1,964)	(3,746)
Comprehensive income	$ 9,476	$ 15,168	$ 3,051
Basic weighted average common shares outstanding (in shares)	18,540	18,334	18,210
Diluted weighted average common shares outstanding (in shares)	19,038	18,715	18,432
Basic net income per common share (in dollars per share)	$ 0.83	$ 0.93	$ 0.37
Diluted net income per common share (in dollars per share)	0.81	0.92	0.37
Cash dividends paid per share (in dollars per share)	$ 0.52	$ 0.52	$ 0.52

Consolidated Statements of Chan

Consolidated Statements of Changes In Stockholders' Equity - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	Total	Common Stock [Member]	Treasury Stock [Member]	Additional Paid in Capital [Member]	Retained Earnings [Member]	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member]
Beginning Balance, shares at Dec. 31, 2013		19,586	1,452
Beginning Balance at Dec. 31, 2013	$ 247,873	$ 196	$ (47,811)	$ 232,008	$ 48,511	$ 14,969
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net income	6,797				6,797
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax	(3,746)					(3,746)
Treasury and common stock transactions:
Stock-based compensation	3,579			3,579
Vesting of equity, net of tax withholdings (in shares)			(82)
Vesting of equity, net of tax withholdings	(405)		$ (2,737)	(3,142)
Re-issuance of treasury stock (in shares)			(24)
Re-issuance of treasury stock	450		$ 813	363
Cash dividends declared ($0.52 per share)	(9,481)				(9,481)
Dividend equivalents on restricted stock units	(396)				(396)
Tax deficit related to stock-based compensation	7			(7)
Ending Balance, shares at Dec. 31, 2014		19,586	1,346
Ending Balance at Dec. 31, 2014	244,664	$ 196	$ (44,261)	232,075	45,431	11,223
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net income	17,132				17,132
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax	(1,964)					(1,964)
Treasury and common stock transactions:
Stock-based compensation	5,066			5,066
Vesting of equity, net of tax withholdings (in shares)			(123)
Vesting of equity, net of tax withholdings	(878)		$ (4,094)	(4,972)
Re-issuance of treasury stock (in shares)			(17)
Re-issuance of treasury stock	449		$ 584	135
Cash dividends declared ($0.52 per share)	(9,550)				(9,550)
Dividend equivalents on restricted stock units	(441)				(441)
Tax deficit related to stock-based compensation	(324)			324
Ending Balance, shares at Dec. 31, 2015		19,586	1,206
Ending Balance at Dec. 31, 2015	254,802	$ 196	$ (39,583)	232,358	52,572	9,259
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net income	15,413				15,413
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax	(5,937)
Treasury and common stock transactions:
Stock-based compensation	6,393			6,393
Vesting of equity, net of tax withholdings (in shares)			(167)
Vesting of equity, net of tax withholdings	(2,688)		$ (5,636)	(8,324)
Re-issuance of treasury stock (in shares)			(31)
Re-issuance of treasury stock	562		$ 1,032	470
Cash dividends declared ($0.52 per share)	(9,668)				(9,668)
Dividend equivalents on restricted stock units	(287)				(287)
Ending Balance, shares at Dec. 31, 2016		19,586	1,008
Ending Balance at Dec. 31, 2016	$ 258,590	$ 196	$ (32,915)	$ 229,957	$ 58,030	$ 3,322

Consolidated Statements of Cha6

Consolidated Statements of Changes In Stockholders' Equity (Parenthetical) - $ / shares	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Cash dividends per share (in dollars per share)	$ 0.52	$ 0.52	$ 0.52
Retained Earnings [Member]
Cash dividends per share (in dollars per share)	$ 0.52	$ 0.52	$ 0.52

Consolidated Statements of Cash

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Cash flows - operating activities:
Net income	$ 15,413,000	$ 17,132,000	$ 6,797,000
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	16,433,000	13,696,000	15,312,000
Deferred income taxes	2,394,000	(1,166,000)	237,000
Stock-based compensation expense	6,393,000	5,066,000	3,579,000
Accretion expense related to earnout payments	635,000	1,294,000	1,854,000
Cash paid for restructuring charges	0	0	(142,000)
Changes in assets and liabilities, net of effects of acquisitions:
Accounts receivables	14,425,000	8,714,000	(217,000)
Accounts payable	941,000	810,000	(2,113,000)
Accrued expenses	(909,000)	37,207,000	29,979,000
Deferred revenue	(1,672,000)	(236,000)	3,486,000
Income taxes (payable) recoverable, net	1,184,000	(3,257,000)	1,482,000
Retirement and pension plan assets and liabilities	4,215,000	(1,142,000)	4,477,000
Prepaid expenses	2,330,000	4,388,000	207,000
Other assets and liabilities, net	3,449,000	(1,281,000)	8,194,000
Net cash provided by operating activities	24,823,000	57,583,000	56,764,000
Cash flows - investing activities:
Restricted cash	7,228,000	0	(53,000)
Acquisition of business and earnout payments, net of cash acquired	(27,722,000)	(10,312,000)	0
Capital expenditures	(5,351,000)	(16,427,000)	(3,359,000)
Purchases of available for sale investments	(2,475,000)	(1,526,000)	(963,000)
Proceeds from sale of available for sale investments	535,000	758,000	1,084,000
Net cash used in investing activities	(27,785,000)	(27,507,000)	(3,291,000)
Cash flows - financing activities:
Debt repayment	0	(29,500,000)	(6,000,000)
Debt issuance costs	0	(473,000)	0
Cash dividends paid	(9,955,000)	(9,991,000)	(9,864,000)
Payment of employee tax withholdings on equity transactions	(2,676,000)	(878,000)	(406,000)
Acquisition earnout payments	(7,461,000)	(5,496,000)	(3,390,000)
Net cash used in financing activities	(20,092,000)	(46,338,000)	(19,660,000)
Effect of exchange rates fluctuations on cash and cash equivalents	(2,387,000)	(4,638,000)	(4,107,000)
Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents	(25,441,000)	(20,900,000)	29,706,000
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	190,452,000	211,352,000	181,646,000
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	165,011,000	190,452,000	211,352,000
Supplemental Schedule of Non-cash Financing Activities:
Term loan facility retirement	0	(26,500,000)	0
Subsequent drawing on line of credit	0	26,500,000	0
Cash paid for
Gross income taxes	16,817,000	16,936,000	14,175,000
Interest	$ 41,000	$ 442,000	$ 861,000

Basis of Presentation

Basis of Presentation	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Basis of Presentation	Basis of Presentation Heidrick & Struggles International, Inc. and Subsidiaries (the “Company”) is engaged in providing executive search, culture shaping and leadership consulting services to clients on a retained basis. The Company operates in the Americas, Europe and Asia Pacific regions. The consolidated financial statements include Heidrick & Struggles International, Inc. and its wholly-owned subsidiaries and have been prepared using accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”). The preparation of these financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses. Significant items subject to estimates and assumptions include revenue recognition, allowances for deferred tax assets and liabilities, and assessment of goodwill and other intangible assets for impairment. Estimates are subject to a degree of uncertainty and actual results could differ from these estimates.

Summary of Significant Accounti

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Cash and Cash Equivalents The Company considers all highly liquid instruments with an original maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents. Concentration of Risk The Company is potentially exposed to concentrations of risk associated with its accounts receivable. However, this risk is limited due to the Company’s large number of clients and their dispersion across many different industries and geographies. At December 31, 2016, the Company had no significant concentrations of risk. Accounts Receivable The Company’s accounts receivable consist of trade receivables. The allowance for doubtful accounts is developed based upon several factors including the age of the Company’s accounts receivable, historical write-off experience and specific account analysis. These factors may change over time, impacting the allowance level. Fair Value of Financial Instruments Cash equivalents are stated at cost, which approximates fair market value. The carrying value for receivables from clients, accounts payable, deferred revenue and other accrued liabilities reasonably approximate fair market value due to the nature of the financial instruments and the short term nature of the items. Property and Equipment Property and equipment are stated at cost. Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful life of the asset or, for leasehold improvements, the shorter of the lease term or the estimated useful life of the asset, as follows: Office furniture, fixtures and equipment 5–10 years Computer equipment and software 3–7 years Depreciation is calculated for tax purposes using accelerated methods, where applicable. Long-lived Assets The Company reviews its long-lived assets, including property and equipment, for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. Recoverability of assets to be held and used is measured by a comparison of the carrying amount of an asset to estimated undiscounted future cash flows expected to be generated by the asset. If the carrying amount of an asset exceeds its estimated future cash flows, an impairment charge, equal to the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds the fair value of the asset, is recognized. Investments The Company’s investments consist primarily of available-for-sale investments within the U.S. non-qualified deferred compensation plan (the “Plan”). Available-for-sale investments are reported at fair value with changes in unrealized gains (losses) recorded as a separate component of Accumulated other comprehensive income in the Consolidated Balance Sheets until realized. Realized gains (losses) resulting from an employee’s termination from the Plan are recorded as a non-operating expense in the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income. Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets Goodwill represents the difference between the purchase price of acquired companies and the related fair value of the net assets acquired, which is accounted for by the acquisition method of accounting. Other intangible assets include client relationships, trade name, software, employee non-compete agreements and technology. The Company performs assessments of the carrying value of goodwill at least annually and of its goodwill and other intangible assets whenever events occur or circumstances indicate that a carrying amount of these assets may not be recoverable. These circumstances include a significant change in business climate, attrition of key personnel, changes in financial condition or results of operations, a prolonged decline in the Company’s stock price and market capitalization, competition, and other factors. The goodwill impairment test compares the fair value of a reporting unit to its carrying amount, including goodwill. The Company has historically operated four reporting units: the Americas; Europe, which includes Africa; Asia Pacific, which includes the Middle East; and Culture Shaping. During the fourth quarter of 2016, the Company revised its reporting unit structure based on the manner in which the Company's chief operating decision maker allocates resources and assesses performance. Under the revised reporting unit structure, the Company operates five reporting units: Americas Executive Search; Europe Executive Search, which includes Africa; Asia Pacific Executive Search, which includes the Middle East; Leadership Consulting; and Culture Shaping. If the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value, goodwill of the reporting unit would be considered impaired. To measure the amount of the impairment loss, the implied fair value of a reporting unit’s goodwill is compared to the carrying amount of that goodwill. If the carrying amount of a reporting unit’s goodwill exceeds the implied fair value of that goodwill, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess. The implied fair value of goodwill is determined in the same manner as the amount of goodwill recognized in a business combination is determined. The fair value of each of the Company’s reporting units is determined using a discounted cash flow methodology. In connection with the reporting unit structure change, the Company revised its historical methodology for allocating corporate costs to the reporting units for goodwill impairment purposes to more closely align with the Company's allocation methodology for financial reporting purposes and reflect estimated consumption. The Company also reallocated its goodwill to the new reporting unit structure utilizing the relative fair value method. The other intangible asset impairment review compares the carrying amount of an asset to estimated undiscounted future cash flows expected to be generated by the asset. If the carrying amount of an asset exceeds its estimated future cash flows, an impairment charge, equal to the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds the fair value, is recognized. Other intangible assets acquired are amortized either using the straight-line method over their estimated useful lives or based on the projected cash flow associated with the respective intangible assets. Revenue Recognition Revenue before reimbursements of out-of-pocket expenses (“net revenue”) consists of retainers and indirect expenses billed to clients. For each assignment, the Company and its client enter into a contract that outlines the general terms and conditions of the assignment. Typically, the Company is paid a retainer for its executive search services equal to approximately one-third of the estimated first year compensation for the position to be filled. In addition, generally, if the actual compensation of a placed candidate exceeds the estimated compensation, the Company often is authorized to bill the client for one-third of the excess. Indirect expenses are calculated as a percentage of the retainer with certain dollar limits per search. The Company generally bills its clients for its retainer and indirect expenses in one-third increments over a three -month period commencing in the month of a client’s acceptance of the contract. Net revenue is recognized when earned and realizable and therefore when the following criteria have been met: (a) persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, (b) services have been rendered, (c) the fee to our client is fixed or determinable, and (d) collectability is reasonably assured. Taxes collected from clients and remitted to governmental authorities are presented on a net basis. Typically, net revenue from standard executive search engagements is recognized over the expected average period of performance, in proportion to the estimated personnel time incurred to fulfill our obligations under the arrangements. Net revenue in excess of the retainer, resulting from actual compensation of the placed candidate exceeding the estimated compensation, is recognized upon completion of the executive search when the amount of the additional fee is known. Net revenue associated with culture shaping consulting is recognized proportionally as services are performed. Net revenue associated with licenses to use our culture shaping proprietary materials is typically recognized over the term of the arrangement. Depending on the terms of that agreement, net revenue from certain leadership consulting and non-standard executive search engagements is either recognized proportionally as services are performed or in accordance with the completion of the engagement deliverables. Reimbursements The Company incurs certain out-of-pocket expenses that are reimbursed by its clients, which are accounted for as revenue and expense in its Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income. Salaries and Employee Benefits Salaries and employee benefits consist of compensation and benefits paid to consultants, executive officers, and administrative and support personnel, of which the most significant elements are salaries and annual performance-related bonuses. Other items in this category are expenses related to sign-on bonuses, forgivable employee loans and minimum guaranteed bonuses (often incurred in connection with the hiring of new consultants), restricted stock unit and performance share unit amortization, payroll taxes, profit sharing and retirement benefits, and employee insurance benefits. Salaries and employee benefits are recognized on an accrual basis. Certain sign-on bonuses, retention awards, and minimum guaranteed compensation are capitalized and amortized in accordance with the terms of the respective agreements. A portion of the Company’s consultants’ and management cash bonuses are deferred and paid over a three -year vesting period. The portion of the bonus is approximately 15% depending on the employee’s level or position. The compensation expense related to the amounts being deferred is recognized on a graded vesting attribution method over the requisite service period. This service period begins on January 1 of the respective fiscal year and continues through the deferral date, which coincides with the Company’s bonus payments in the first quarter of the following year, and for an additional three year vesting period. The deferrals are recorded in Accrued salaries and employee benefits within both Current liabilities and Non-current liabilities in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Income Taxes Deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on the differences between the financial statement and tax basis of assets and liabilities, applying enacted statutory tax rates in effect for the year in which the tax differences are expected to reverse. Deferred tax assets are reduced by a valuation allowance when, in the opinion of management, it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are adjusted for the effects of changes in tax laws and rates on the date of enactment. Earnings per Common Share Basic earnings per common share is computed by dividing net income by weighted average common shares outstanding for the year. Diluted earnings per share reflect the potential dilution that could occur if securities or other contracts to issue common stock were exercised or converted. Common equivalent shares are excluded from the determination of diluted earnings per share in periods in which they have an anti-dilutive effect. The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings per share: December 31, 2016 2015 2014 Net income $ 15,413 $ 17,132 $ 6,797 Weighted average shares outstanding: Basic 18,540 18,334 18,210 Effect of dilutive securities: Restricted stock units 347 234 155 Performance stock units 151 147 67 Diluted 19,038 18,715 18,432 Basic earnings per share $ 0.83 $ 0.93 $ 0.37 Diluted earnings per share $ 0.81 $ 0.92 $ 0.37 Translation of Foreign Currencies The Company generally designates the local currency for all its subsidiaries as the functional currency. The Company translates the assets and liabilities of its subsidiaries into U.S. dollars at the current rate of exchange prevailing at the balance sheet date. Revenue and expenses are translated at a monthly average exchange rate for the period. Translation adjustments are reported as a component of Accumulated other comprehensive income . Restricted Cash The Company has lease agreements and business licenses with terms that require the Company to restrict cash through the termination dates of the agreements, which extend through 2018. During 2016, the Company paid certain key executives of Senn Delaney a $6.5 million retention bonus out of restricted cash for remaining with the Company for three years subsequent to the acquisition (See Note 7, Acquisitions ). As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, the total restricted cash was $0.6 million and $7.8 million , respectively. Current and non-current restricted cash is included in Other current assets and Other non-current assets , respectively, on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. Reclassifications Certain prior year amounts have been recast as a result of the change in the Company's operating segments. The reclassifications had no impact on net income, net cash flows or stockholders' equity. Recently Issued Financial Accounting Standards In November 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") No. 2016-18, Statement of Cash Flows: Restricted Cash , which requires that the statement of cash flows explain the change during the period in the total of cash, cash equivalents, and amounts generally described as restricted cash or restricted cash equivalents. Therefore amounts generally described as restricted cash should be included with cash and cash equivalents when recording the beginning of period and end of period total amounts shown on the statement of cash flows. The Company currently does not include restricted cash amounts in the beginning and ending cash amounts and will change the presentation of the cash flow statement to include restricted cash in the beginning and ending cash totals. The standard is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017 with early adoption permitted.The Company has not yet determined when it will adopt this guidance. The impact of this change is not expected to be significant to the classification of these activities on the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows. In August 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued accounting Standards Update ("ASU") No. 2016-15, Statement of Cash Flows: Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments , which is intended to reduce diversity in practice as to how certain cash receipts and cash payments should be presented and classified. The standard is effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017 with early adoption permitted. The Company has evaluated the standard and noted the guidance for contingent consideration payments made after a business combination are applicable to the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows. The Company currently classifies all contingent consideration payments as financing activities. The impact of this change is not expected to be significant to the classification of these activities on the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows. In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-02, Leases , intended to improve financial reporting about leasing transactions. The new guidance will require entities that lease assets to recognize on their balance sheets the assets and liabilities for the rights and obligations created by those leases and to disclose key information about the leasing arrangements. ASU 2016-02 is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2018 with early adoption permitted. The guidance requires lessees and lessors to recognize and measure leases at the beginning of the earliest period presented using a modified retrospective approach. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this accounting guidance. The effect is not known or reasonably estimable at this time. In January 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-01, Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities , which addresses certain aspects of recognition, measurement, presentation and disclosure of financial instruments including the recognition of unrealized changes in fair value within net income. The standard is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this accounting guidance. The effect is not known or reasonably estimable at this time. In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers . The ASU requires that an entity recognizes revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customer in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the Company expects to be entitled in exchange for these goods or services. The effective date has been deferred for one year to the interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017. The guidance permits the use of either of the following transition methods: (i) a full retrospective method reflecting the application of the standard in each prior reporting period with the option to elect certain practical expedients or (ii) a retrospective method with the cumulative effect upon initial adoption recognized at the date of initial application (modified retrospective). The Company will adopt the guidance on January 1, 2018 and will apply the modified retrospective method. The Company is performing its evaluation of ASU No. 2014-09. The Company is paid a retainer for its executive search services equal to approximately one-third of the estimated first year compensation for the position to be filled. If the actual compensation of a placed candidate exceeds the estimated compensation, the Company is often authorized to bill the client for one-third of the excess. The Company currently recognizes revenue associated with the difference between the estimated compensation and actual compensation at the time this amount is considered fixed and determinable. Under ASU 2014-09, the difference between estimated compensation and actual compensation is considered variable consideration. The Company will be required to estimate the amount of variable consideration for its executive search services at contract inception. The Company is still evaluating the financial impact of this change. The Company is continuing to evaluate the impacts of adoption of this guidance and its preliminary assessments are subject to change. Recently Adopted Financial Accounting Standards In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-09, Stock Compensation: Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting , which is intended to simplify several aspects of the accounting for share-based payment transactions including the income tax accounting, classification of awards as either equity or liabilities, the accounting for forfeitures and classification on the statement of cash flows. The standard is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016 with early adoption permitted. The Company early adopted this standard during the fourth quarter of 2016. The adoption of this standard reduced tax expense by approximately $0.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2016.

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Receivables [Abstract]
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts	Allowance for Doubtful Accounts The activity of the allowance for doubtful accounts for the years ended: December 31, 2016 2015 2014 Balance at January 1, $ 5,376 $ 3,942 $ 4,709 Provision charged to income 1,407 2,772 241 Write-offs (4,106 ) (1,140 ) (772 ) Foreign currency translation (102 ) (198 ) (236 ) Balance at December 31, $ 2,575 $ 5,376 $ 3,942

Property and Equipment, net

Property and Equipment, net	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Property and Equipment, net	Property and Equipment, net The components of the Company’s property and equipment are as follows: December 31, 2016 2015 Leasehold improvements $ 42,891 $ 40,583 Office furniture, fixtures and equipment 16,677 16,234 Computer equipment and software 30,186 28,648 Property and equipment, gross 89,754 85,465 Accumulated depreciation (54,655 ) (48,967 ) Property and equipment, net $ 35,099 $ 36,498 Depreciation expense for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015, and 2014 was $ 9.4 million , $8.8 million , and $9.8 million , respectively.

Fair Value Measurements

Fair Value Measurements	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value Measurements	Fair Value Measurements Fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. A three-level fair value hierarchy prioritizes the inputs used to measure fair value. The hierarchy requires entities to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs. The three levels of inputs used to measure fair value are as follows: • Level 1 – Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets and liabilities. • Level 2 – Quoted prices in active markets for similar assets and liabilities, or other inputs that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term of the financial instrument. • Level 3 – Unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity and that are significant to the fair value of the assets and liabilities. This includes certain pricing models, discounted cash flow methodologies and similar techniques that use significant unobservable inputs. Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) Total At December 31, 2016 U.S. non-qualified deferred compensation plan $ 17,346 $ — $ — $ 17,346 Assets designated for retirement and pension plans — 16,979 — 16,979 Pension benefit obligation — (22,128 ) — (22,128 ) Acquisition earnout accruals — — (10,991 ) (10,991 ) $ 17,346 $ (5,149 ) $ (10,991 ) $ 1,206 Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) Total At December 31, 2015 U.S. non-qualified deferred compensation plan $ 14,145 $ — $ — $ 14,145 Assets designated for retirement and pension plans — 18,164 — 18,164 Pension benefit obligation — (22,388 ) — (22,388 ) Acquisition earnout accruals — — (12,033 ) (12,033 ) $ 14,145 $ (4,224 ) $ (12,033 ) $ (2,112 ) The following table provides a reconciliation of the beginning and ending balance of Level 3 assets and liabilities for the year ended December 31, 2016. Acquisition Balance at December 31, 2015 $ (12,033 ) Acquisition earnouts (Note 7) (6,051 ) Co Company earnout amendment (Note 7) (577 ) Earnout accretion (635 ) Earnout payments 7,461 Foreign currency translation 844 Balance at December 31, 2016 $ (10,991 ) The Level 2 assets above are reinsurance contracts fair valued in accordance with BaFin - German Federal Financial Supervisory Authority guidelines, which utilize observable inputs including mortality tables and discount rates. The Level 3 liabilities are accruals for future earnout payments related to current year and prior acquisitions, the values of which are determined based on discounted cash flow models. The Company considers the recorded value of its financial assets and liabilities, which consist primarily of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, and accounts payable, to approximate the fair value of the respective assets and liabilities at December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015 based upon the short-term nature of the assets and liabilities.

Investments

Investments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Investments Schedule [Abstract]
Investments	Investments The Company has a U.S. non-qualified deferred compensation plan that consists primarily of U.S. marketable securities and mutual funds, all of which are valued using Level 1 inputs (See Note 6 , Fair Value Measurements ). The fair value for these investments was $ 17.3 million and $ 14.1 million as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively. The aggregate cost basis for these investments was $ 13.3 million and $ 11.1 million as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

Acquisition

Acquisition	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Acquisition	Acquisitions Philosophy IB, LLP On September 1, 2016, the Company acquired substantially all of the assets of Philosophy IB, LLP ("Philosophy IB"), a New Jersey-based leadership, organization development and management consulting firm for $6.0 million , which was funded from existing cash. The former owners of Philosophy IB are eligible to receive an additional cash consideration based on two components: achieving revenue milestones generated from its software products from September 2016 through August 2019 and percentage of consulting revenue achieved over the period September 2016 to August 2019, subject to a profitability test. When estimating the value of future cash consideration, the Company has accrued $1.1 million as of December 31, 2016 . The Company recognized $0.1 million of accretion expense included in General and administrative expenses during the twelve months ended December 31, 2016. The Company recorded $2.9 million of intangible assets and $2.4 million of goodwill. The goodwill is primarily related to the acquired workforce and strategic fit. As of the acquisition date, the Company expects that approximately $1.3 million of goodwill will be deductible for tax purposes. JCA Group Limited On August 4, 2016, the Company acquired JCA Group Limited ("JCA Group"), a UK-based provider of executive search, succession planning and coaching services, and, from the partners thereof, the entire partnership interest in JCA Partners LLP for £11.2 million (equivalent to $14.9 million at the acquisition date and $13.8 million at December 31, 2016) of initial consideration, which was funded from existing cash. The former owners of JCA Group are eligible to receive additional cash consideration upon the realization of specific revenue milestones achieved over the period August 2016 through August 2018. When estimating the value of future cash consideration, the Company has accrued £2.7 million (equivalent to $3.3 million ) as of December 31, 2016 . The Company recognized less than $0.1 million of accretion expense included in General and administrative expenses during the twelve months ended December 31, 2016. The Company recorded $3.9 million of intangible assets and $15.8 million of goodwill. The goodwill is primarily related to the acquired workforce and strategic fit. The Company will not be able to deduct the recorded goodwill for tax purposes. Decision Strategies International, Inc. On February 29, 2016 , the Company acquired substantially all of the assets of Decision Strategies International, Inc. ("DSI"), a Pennsylvania-based business consulting firm and its wholly owned subsidiary, Decision Strategies International (UK) Limited. DSI specializes in advising organizations and institutions on strategic planning and decision making in uncertain operating environments, leadership development and talent strategy. Total consideration for the acquisition of DSI's assets was approximately $9.0 million and was funded from existing cash. The former owners of DSI are eligible to receive an additional cash consideration payment in 2019 based on revenue targets to be achieved in 2017 and 2018. When estimating the value of future cash consideration, the Company has accrued $1.7 million as of December 31, 2016 . The Company recognized $0.3 million of accretion expense included in General and administrative expenses during the twelve months ended December 31, 2016 . The Company recorded $3.2 million of intangible assets related to customer relationships and $5.7 million of goodwill. The goodwill is primarily related to the acquired workforce and strategic fit. As of the acquisition date, the Company expects that approximately $4.2 million of goodwill will be deductible for tax purposes. Co Company Limited On October 1, 2015, the Company acquired Co Company, a UK-based management consulting firm that specializes in Organizational Development for £7.1 million (equivalent to $10.8 million at the acquisition date and $8.8 million at December 31, 2016) of initial consideration, pursuant to a stock purchase, which was funded from existing cash. The former owners of Co Company are eligible to receive additional cash consideration upon the realization of specific revenue and EBITDA Margin milestones achieved over the period October 1, 2015 through December 2018. On August 25, 2016, the Company and the former owners of Co Company entered into a Deed of Amendment (the "Amendment") to the Share Purchase Agreement dated October 1, 2015. The Amendment adjusts the target fee revenue and targeted EBITDA margin for each remaining earn out period taking into consideration the unanticipated acquisitions completed subsequent to the Share Purchase Agreement. The new targets include subsequent acquisitions and take effect retrospectively from January 1, 2016. When estimating the fair value of future cash consideration, the Company has accrued £3.2 million and £2.8 million (equivalent to $3.9 million and $4.2 million ) as of December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively, of which $0.2 million was paid during 2016. As a result of the Amendment and related adjustment of the earnout liability, the Company recognized $0.1 million of income in General and administrative expenses during the year ended December 31, 2016. The Company recognized $ 0.1 million of expense in General and administrative expenses during the year ended December 31, 2015. The Company recorded $2.9 million of intangible assets and $10.7 million of goodwill. The goodwill is primarily related to the acquired workforce and strategic fit. The Company will not be able to deduct the recorded goodwill for tax purposes. Scambler MacGregor Executive Search Pty Limited In November 2013 , the Company acquired Scambler MacGregor, an Australian-based retained Executive Search boutique in the financial services industry for 1.1 million Australian dollars (equivalent to $1.0 million at the acquisition date and $0.8 million at December 31, 2016) of initial consideration, pursuant to a stock purchase, which was funded from existing cash. In December 2013, the Company paid an additional $0.1 million related to the final working capital settlement. The former owners of Scambler MacGregor are eligible to receive earnout payments of up to 2.8 million Australian dollars (equivalent to $2.1 million as of December 31, 2016) based on the achievement of certain revenue metrics over the period November 2013 through December 2018, of which $0.4 million and $0.7 million were paid during the first quarters of 2016 and 2015 respectively. When estimating the fair value of future earnout payments, the Company has accrued 1.1 million Australian dollars and 1.6 million Australian dollars, equivalent to $0.8 million and $1.2 million as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively. The Company also recorded $0.4 million of intangible assets and $2.7 million of goodwill. The goodwill is primarily related to the acquired workforce and strategic fit. The Company will not be able to deduct the recorded goodwill for tax purposes. Senn-Delaney Leadership Consulting Group, LLC In December 2012 , the Company acquired Senn-Delaney Leadership Consulting Group, LLC, a global leader of corporate culture shaping. Under the terms of the purchase agreement, the Company paid $53.5 million at closing for 100 percent of the equity of Senn Delaney. The agreement also included additional cash consideration up to $15.0 million based on the realization of specific earnings milestones achieved over the period December 2012 through December 2015, of which $6.8 million , $4.8 million and $3.4 million was paid in 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively. The Company had accrued $6.6 million at December 31, 2015 for the remaining cash consideration, which was paid during the year ended December 31, 2016. The Company has recognized $0.2 million and $1.1 million of accretion expense included in General and administrative expenses for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively. The Company recognized $2.1 million of compensation expense included in Salaries and employee benefits for the year ended December 31, 2015 related to the retention awards. As of the acquisition date, the Company expects that approximately $19.1 million of goodwill will be deductible for tax purposes.

Goodwill and Other Intangible A

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets	Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets Goodwill Changes in the carrying amount of goodwill by segment for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 were as follows: Executive Search Americas Europe Asia Pacific Leadership Consulting Culture Total Gross goodwill at December 31, 2013 $ 82,640 $ 23,507 $ 10,854 $ — $ 29,780 $ 146,781 Exchange rate fluctuations (370 ) — (599 ) — (129 ) (1,098 ) Gross goodwill at December 31, 2014 82,270 23,507 10,255 — 29,651 145,683 Co Company acquisition — 10,745 — — — 10,745 Exchange rate fluctuations (644 ) — (1,044 ) — (111 ) (1,799 ) Gross goodwill at December 31, 2015 81,626 34,252 9,211 — 29,540 154,629 DSI acquisition 5,673 — — — — 5,673 Philosophy IB acquisition 2,357 — — — — 2,357 JCA acquisition — 15,769 — — — 15,769 Segment reallocation (1) (1,670 ) (4,517 ) (347 ) 6,534 — — Exchange rate fluctuations 115 (2,905 ) 29 — (316 ) (3,077 ) Gross goodwill at December 31, 2016 88,101 42,599 8,893 6,534 29,224 175,351 Accumulated goodwill impairment — (23,507 ) — — — (23,507 ) Net goodwill at December 31, 2016 $ 88,101 $ 19,092 $ 8,893 $ 6,534 $ 29,224 $ 151,844 (1) Due to the Company's change in segment reporting, goodwill amounts included in the Company's Americas, Europe and Asia Pacific segments in the prior year have been reallocated to the Leadership Consulting segment utilizing the relative fair value method. During the 2016 fourth quarter, the Company conducted its annual goodwill impairment evaluation as of October 31, 2016. The goodwill impairment evaluation is performed using a two-step, fair value based test. The first step compares the fair value of a reporting unit with its carrying amount, including goodwill. The second step measures the impairment charge and is performed only if the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value as determined in step one. To measure the amount of the impairment loss, the implied fair value of a reporting unit’s goodwill is compared to the carrying amount of that goodwill. If the carrying amount of a reporting unit’s goodwill exceeds the implied fair value of that goodwill, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess. The implied fair value of goodwill is determined in the same manner as the amount of goodwill recognized in a business combination. The impairment test is considered for each of the Company’s reporting units that have goodwill as defined in the accounting standard for goodwill and intangible assets. The Company has historically operated four reporting units: the Americas; Europe, which includes Africa; Asia Pacific, which includes the Middle East; and Culture Shaping. During the fourth quarter of 2016, the Company revised its reporting unit structure based on the manner in which the Company's chief operating decision maker allocates resources and assesses performance. Under the revised reporting unit structure, the Company operates five reporting units: Americas Executive Search; Europe Executive Search, which includes Africa; Asia Pacific Executive Search, which includes the Middle East; Leadership Consulting; and Culture Shaping. As a result of the change in reporting units, the Company conducted it's annual impairment evaluation for both the former and revised reporting unit structures as required by the accounting standard for goodwill and intangible assets. During the impairment evaluation process, the Company used a discounted cash flow methodology to estimate the fair value of its reporting units. The discounted cash flow approach is dependent on a number of factors, including estimates of future market growth and trends, forecasted revenue and costs, capital investments, appropriate discount rates, certain assumptions to allocate shared costs, assets and liabilities, historical and projected performance of the Company’s reporting units, the outlook for the executive search industry, and the macroeconomic conditions affecting each of the Company’s reporting units. The assumptions used in the determination of fair value were (1) a forecast of growth in the near term; (2) the discount rate; (3) working capital investments; and (4) other factors. As a result of the reporting unit structure change, the Company revised its historical methodology for allocating corporate costs to the reporting units for goodwill impairment purposes to more closely align with the Company's allocation methodology for financial reporting purposes and reflect estimated consumption. Based on the result of the first step of this goodwill impairment analysis, the fair values of the Americas, Europe, Asia Pacific, and Culture Shaping reporting units under the old reporting unit structure exceeded their carrying values by 118% , 68% , 38% , and 5% , respectively. Under the new reporting unit structure, the result of the first step of this goodwill impairment analysis indicated the fair values of the Americas Executive Search, Europe Executive Search, Asia Pacific Executive Search, Leadership Consulting and Culture Shaping reporting units exceeded their carrying values by 124% , 69% , 34% , 46% and 5% , respectively. The fair value of a reporting unit may deteriorate and could result in the need to record an impairment charge in future periods. The Company continues to monitor potential triggering events including changes in the business climate in which it operates, the Company’s market capitalization compared to its book value, and the Company’s recent operating performance. Any changes in these factors could result in an impairment charge. Since the fair value of the reporting units exceeded their carrying values, the second step of the goodwill impairment test was not necessary. Other Intangible Assets, net The Company’s other intangible assets, net by segment, are as follows: December 31, 2016 December 31, 2015 (As adjusted) Executive Search Americas $ 501 $ 764 Europe (1) 2,937 — Asia Pacific 127 209 Total Executive Search 3,565 973 Leadership Consulting (1) 6,223 2,548 Culture Shaping 10,902 15,166 Total Other Intangible Assets, Net $ 20,690 $ 18,687 (1) Due to the Company's change in segment reporting, intangible assets included in the Company's Europe Executive Search and Leadership Consulting segment in the prior year have been reallocated to the Leadership Consulting segment. The carrying amount of amortizable intangible assets and the related accumulated amortization were as follows: December 31, 2016 December 31, 2015 Weighted Gross Carrying Amount Accumulated Amortization Net Gross Carrying Amount Accumulated Amortization Net Carrying Amount Client relationships 8.1 $ 33,299 $ (21,653 ) $ 11,646 $ 25,414 $ (17,550 ) $ 7,864 Trade name 14.3 9,436 (4,465 ) 4,971 9,251 (3,416 ) 5,835 Software 7.0 7,200 (4,114 ) 3,086 7,200 (3,086 ) 4,114 Non-compete 4.4 974 (423 ) 551 586 (117 ) 469 Technology 5.0 604 (168 ) 436 442 (37 ) 405 Total intangible assets 9.3 $ 51,513 $ (30,823 ) $ 20,690 $ 42,893 $ (24,206 ) $ 18,687 Intangible asset amortization expense for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 was $7.1 million , $4.9 million and $5.5 million respectively. The Company's estimated future amortization expense related to intangible assets as of December 31, 2016 for the years ended December 31st is as follows: 2017 $ 6,759 2018 4,978 2019 3,589 2020 1,859 2021 1,045 Thereafter 2,460 Total $ 20,690

Other Non-Current Liabilities

Other Non-Current Liabilities	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Other Liabilities Disclosure [Abstract]
Other Non-Current Liabilities	Other Non-Current Liabilities The components of other non-current liabilities are as follows: December 31, 2016 December 31, 2015 Premise related costs $ 18,188 $ 17,790 Accrued earnout payments 8,518 788 Other 1,582 1,269 Total other non-current liabilities $ 28,288 $ 19,847

Line of Credit

Line of Credit	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Line of Credit	Line of Credit On June 30, 2015, the Company entered into a Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement (the “Restated Credit Agreement”). The Restated Credit agreement amended and restated the Credit Agreement executed on June 22, 2011 (the “Credit Agreement”). Pursuant to the Restated Credit Agreement, the Company replaced its Revolving Facility and Term Facility (“Existing Facility”) with a single senior unsecured revolving line of credit with an aggregate commitment of up to $100 million , which includes a sublimit of $25 million for letters of credit, and a $50 million expansion feature (the “Replacement Facility”). The Replacement Facility will mature on June 30, 2020. Borrowings under the Restated Credit Agreement bear interest at the Company’s election at the existing Alternate Base Rate (as defined in the Credit Agreement) or Adjusted LIBOR Rate (as defined in the Credit Agreement) plus a spread as determined by the Company’s leverage ratio. Borrowings under the Replacement Facility may be used for working capital, capital expenditures, Permitted Acquisition (as defined in the Credit Agreement) and for other general purposes of the Company and its subsidiaries. The obligations under the Replacement Facility are guaranteed by certain of the Company's subsidiaries. As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, the Company had no outstanding borrowings under the Restated Credit Agreement and the Company was in compliance with the financial and other covenants under the Restated Credit Agreement and no event of default existed. On March 8, 2017, the Company borrowed $40.0 million under the Restated Credit Agreement and elected the Adjusted LIBOR Rate.

Employee Benefit Plans

Employee Benefit Plans	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Postemployment Benefits [Abstract]
Employee Benefit Plans	Employee Benefit Plans Qualified Retirement Plan The Company has a defined contribution retirement plan (the “Plan”) for all eligible employees in the United States. Eligible employees may begin participating in the Plan upon their hire date. The Plan contains a 401(k) provision, which provides for employee pre-tax and/or after-tax contributions, from 1% to 50% of their eligible compensation up to a combined maximum permitted by law. The Company matched employee contributions on a dollar for dollar basis per participant up to the greater of $6,000 , or 6.0% , of eligible compensation for the year ended December 31, 2016. The Company matched employee contributions up to the greater of $5,500 , or 5.5% , of eligible compensation for the year ended December 31, 2015, and up to the greater of $5,000 , or 5.0% , of eligible compensation for the year ended December 31, 2014. Beginning in 2016, employees are eligible for the Company match immediately provided that they are working on the last day of the Plan year in which the match is made. Previously, employees were eligible for the Company match after satisfying a one year service requirement provided that they were working on the last day of the Plan year in which the match was made. The Plan also provides for employees who retire, die or become disabled during the Plan year to receive the Company match for that Plan year. The Plan provides that forfeitures will be used to reduce the Company’s contributions. Forfeitures are created annually by participants who terminate employment before becoming entitled to the Company’s matching contribution under the Plan. The Company also has the option of making discretionary contributions. There were no discretionary contributions made for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014. The expense that the Company incurred for matching employee contributions for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 was $4.8 million , $3.3 million and $2.8 million , respectively. The Company maintains additional retirement plans in the Americas, Europe and Asia Pacific regions which the Company does not consider as material, and, therefore additional disclosure has not been presented. The balances associated with these plans have been reported in the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 and in the Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2016 and 2015. Deferred Compensation Plans The Company has a deferred compensation plan for certain U.S. employees (the “U.S. Plan”) that became effective on January 1, 2006. The U.S. Plan allows participants to defer up to 25% of their base compensation and up to the lesser of $500,000 or 25% of their eligible bonus compensation into several different investment vehicles. These deferrals are immediately vested and are not subject to a risk of forfeiture. In 2016 and 2015, all deferrals in the U.S. Plan were funded. The compensation deferred in the U.S. Plan was $14.9 million and $12.0 million , at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively. The assets of the U.S. Plan are included in Investments and the liabilities of the U.S. Plan are included in Retirement and pension plans in the Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2016 and 2015. The Company has a Non-Employee Directors Voluntary Deferred Compensation Plan whereby non-employee members of the Company’s Board of Directors may elect to defer up to 100% of the cash component of their directors’ fees into several different investment vehicles. As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, the total amounts deferred under the plan were $2.4 million and $2.1 million , respectively, all of which was funded. The assets of the plan are included in Investments and the liabilities of the plan are included in Retirement and pension plans in the Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 2016 and 2015. The U.S. and Non-Employee Directors Voluntary Deferred Compensation Plans consist primarily of marketable securities and mutual funds, all of which are valued using Level 1 inputs (See Note 6, Fair Value Measurements ).

Pension Plan and Life Insurance

Pension Plan and Life Insurance Contract	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Pension Plan and Life Insurance Contract	Pension Plan and Life Insurance Contract The Company maintains a pension plan for certain current and former employees in Germany. The pensions are individually fixed Euro amounts that vary depending on the function and the eligible years of service of the employee. 2016 2015 Benefit obligation at January 1, $ 22,388 $ 26,985 Interest cost 453 436 Actuarial (gain) loss 1,178 (1,052 ) Benefits paid (1,198 ) (1,244 ) Cumulative translation adjustment (693 ) (2,737 ) Benefit obligation at December 31, $ 22,128 $ 22,388 The benefit obligation amounts recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets are as follows: December 31, 2016 2015 Current liabilities $ 1,281 $ 1,307 Noncurrent liabilities 20,847 21,081 Total $ 22,128 $ 22,388 The accumulated benefit obligation amounts at December 31, 2016 and 2015 are $22.1 million million and $22.4 million million, respectively. The components of and assumptions used to determine the net periodic benefit cost are as follows: December 31, 2016 2015 2014 Net period benefit cost: Interest cost $ 453 $ 436 $ 799 Amortization of net loss 17 72 — Net periodic benefit cost $ 470 $ 508 $ 799 Weighted average assumptions Discount rate (1) 2.15 % 1.82 % 3.25 % Rate of compensation increase — % 1.75 % 1.75 % Assumptions to determine the Company’s benefit obligation are as follows: December 31, 2016 2015 2014 Discount rate (1) 1.53 % 2.15 % 1.82 % Rate of compensation increase — % — % 1.75 % Measurement Date 12/31/2016 12/31/2015 12/31/2014 (1) The discount rates are based on long-term bond indices adjusted to reflect the longer duration of the benefit obligation. The amounts in Accumulated other comprehensive income as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 that had not yet been recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost were $3.6 million and $2.5 million , respectively. As of December 31, 2016, an insignificant amount of the accumulated other comprehensive income is expected to be recognized as a component of net periodic benefit cost in 2017. The Company’s investment strategy is to support its pension obligations through reinsurance contracts. The BaFin—German Federal Financial Supervisory Authority—supervises the insurance companies and the reinsurance contracts. The BaFin requires each reinsurance contract to guarantee a fixed minimum return. The Company’s pension benefits are fully reinsured by group insurance contracts with ERGO Lebensversicherung AG, and the group insurance contracts are measured in accordance with BaFin guidelines (including mortality tables and discount rates) which are considered Level 2 inputs (See Note 6, Fair Value Measurements ). The fair value at December 31, 2016 and 2015 was $ 17.0 million million and $ 18.2 million , respectively. The expected contribution to be paid into the plan in 2017 is $1.3 million . Since the pension assets are not segregated in trust from the Company’s other assets, the pension assets are not shown as an offset against the pension liabilities in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. These assets are included in the Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 2016 and 2015, as a component of Other current assets and Assets designated for retirement and pension plans . The benefits expected to be paid in each of the next five years, and in the aggregate for the five years thereafter are as follows: Year ending December 31, 2017 $ 1,281 2018 1,274 2019 1,266 2020 1,255 2021 1,241 2022 through 2026 5,883

Stock-Based Compensation

Stock-Based Compensation	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Stock-Based Compensation	Stock-Based Compensation GlobalShare Program The Company’s 2007 Heidrick & Struggles GlobalShare Program (the “Prior Program”) provided for grants of stock options, stock appreciation rights, and other stock-based awards to directors, selected employees, and independent contractors. The Prior Program expired on May 24, 2012. Outstanding awards granted under the Prior Program remain outstanding and subject to the terms of the Prior Program and award agreements until such awards vest, are exercised, terminate or expire pursuant to their terms. As of December 31, 2016, there were 43,338 awards outstanding under the Prior Program, consisting of 8,877 stock options and 34,461 restricted stock units. On May 24, 2012, the stockholders of the Company approved the 2012 Heidrick & Struggles GlobalShare Program (the “2012 Program”) at the Company’s Annual Meeting of Stockholders. The 2012 Program provides for grants of stock options, stock appreciation rights, and other stock-based awards that are valued based upon the grant date fair value of shares. These awards may be granted to directors, selected employees and independent contractors. The total number of shares authorized or reserved for issuance under the 2012 Program is 1,300,000 shares (consisting of a number of shares not previously authorized for issuance under any plan, and the number of shares not subject to awards and remaining available for issuance under the Prior Program, as amended on April 2, 2012), plus any shares subject to the 671,528 outstanding awards as of April 2, 2012 under the Prior Program that on or after the effective date cease for any reason to be subject to such awards. Stock awards forfeited or canceled under the Prior Program and the 2012 Program are eligible for reissuance under the 2012 Program. On May 22, 2014, the stockholders of the Company approved an amendment to the 2012 Program to increase the number of shares of Common Stock reserved for issuance under the 2012 Program by 700,000 shares. As of December 31, 2016, 1,397,410 awards have been issued under the 2012 Program and 1,003,228 shares remain available for future awards, which includes 400,638 forfeited awards. The 2012 Program provides that no awards can be granted after May 24, 2022 . The Company measures its stock-based compensation costs based on the grant date fair value of the awards and recognizes these costs in the financial statements over the requisite service period. A summary of information with respect to stock-based compensation is as follows: December 31, 2016 2015 2014 Salaries and employee benefits $ 5,830 $ 4,616 $ 3,128 General and administrative expenses 563 450 451 Income tax benefit related to stock-based compensation included in net income 2,523 1,856 1,444 Restricted Stock Units Restricted stock units are generally subject to ratable vesting over a three year period. Compensation expense related to service-based restricted stock units is recognized on a straight-line basis over the vesting period. For awards requiring satisfaction of service and performance conditions, compensation expense is recognized using a graded vesting attribution method. Restricted stock unit activity as of December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014: Number of Weighted- Outstanding on December 31, 2013 270,455 $ 18.64 Granted 295,733 18.02 Vested and converted to common stock (93,159 ) 19.65 Forfeited (10,312 ) 17.45 Outstanding on December 31, 2014 462,717 18.07 Granted 184,541 23.94 Vested and converted to common stock (146,307 ) 18.80 Forfeited (27,016 ) 20.74 Outstanding on December 31, 2015 473,935 19.98 Granted 207,405 22.92 Vested and converted to common stock (119,455 ) 20.02 Forfeited (24,612 ) 22.81 Outstanding on December 31, 2016 537,273 20.97 As of December 31, 2016, there was $ 3.4 million of pre-tax unrecognized compensation expense related to unvested restricted stock units, which is expected to be recognized over a weighted average of 1.8 years. Performance Stock Units The Company grants performance stock units to certain of its senior executives. The performance stock units are generally subject to a cliff vesting at the end of a three year period. The vesting will vary between 0% - 200% based on the attainment of operating income goals over the three year vesting period. The performance stock units are expensed on a straight-line basis over the three year vesting period. In 2014, the Company granted market-based performance stock units to the Chief Executive Officer as part of his initial compensation package. The market-based awards vest after a two -year service period and if the price of the Company’s common stock exceeds specified targets. The fair value of the market-based awards was determined using the Monte-Carlo simulation model. A Monte Carlo simulation model uses stock price volatility and other variables to estimate the probability of satisfying the market conditions and the resulting fair value of the award. Compensation costs related to the market-based awards are recognized regardless of whether the market condition is satisfied, as long as the requisite service has been provided. All of the market-based performance conditions were satisfied such that all 125,000 performance stock units granted to the Chief Executive Officer vested upon the completion of the two year service period in February 2016. Performance share unit activity as of December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014: Number of Weighted- Outstanding on December 31, 2013 61,321 $ 19.77 Granted 186,705 17.19 Vested and converted to common stock (9,429 ) 27.18 Forfeited (9,427 ) 27.18 Outstanding on December 31, 2014 229,170 17.06 Granted 59,221 23.64 Vested and converted to common stock (13,397 ) 20.62 Forfeited (2,970 ) 20.62 Outstanding on December 31, 2015 272,024 18.28 Granted 125,388 22.98 Vested and converted to common stock (160,600 ) 15.51 Forfeited — — Outstanding on December 31, 2016 236,812 22.64 As of December 31, 2016, there was $ 2.4 million of pre-tax unrecognized compensation expense related to unvested performance stock units, which is expected to be recognized over a weighted average of 1.9 years.

Changes in Accumulated Other Co

Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Equity [Abstract]
Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income The changes in Accumulated other comprehensive income (“AOCI”) by component for the year ended December 31, 2016 is summarized below: Available- Foreign Pension AOCI Balance at December 31, 2015 $ 2,394 $ 8,561 $ (1,696 ) $ 9,259 Other comprehensive income (loss) before classification, net of tax 1,279 (6,271 ) (1,156 ) (6,148 ) Amount reclassified from AOCI (1) (244 ) — 455 211 Net current period other comprehensive income (loss) 1,035 (6,271 ) (701 ) (5,937 ) Balance at December 31, 2016 $ 3,429 $ 2,290 $ (2,397 ) $ 3,322 (1) Available-for-Sale Securities and Pension reclassifications from AOCI are included in Interest, net, Other, net and Salaries and employee benefits , respectively, in the Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income.

Income Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes	Income Taxes The sources of income before income taxes are as follows: December 31, 2016 2015 2014 United States $ 30,696 $ 26,550 $ 25,956 Foreign 7,070 5,004 (1,769 ) Income before income taxes $ 37,766 $ 31,554 $ 24,187 The provision for (benefit from) income taxes are as follows: December 31, 2016 2015 2014 Current Federal $ 12,261 $ 8,598 $ 10,997 State and local 3,219 1,697 3,141 Foreign 5,668 4,911 2,537 Current provision for income taxes 21,148 15,206 16,675 Deferred Federal 727 (1,551 ) (2,845 ) State and local (370 ) (180 ) (242 ) Foreign 848 947 3,802 Deferred provision (benefit) for income taxes 1,205 (784 ) 715 Total provision for income taxes $ 22,353 $ 14,422 $ 17,390 A reconciliation of the provision for income taxes to income taxes at the statutory U.S. federal income tax rate of 35% is as follows: December 31, 2016 2015 2014 Income tax provision at the statutory U.S. federal rate $ 13,218 $ 11,044 $ 8,466 State income tax provision, net of federal tax benefit 1,904 1,272 1,423 Nondeductible expenses, net 1,410 262 1,747 Foreign taxes (includes rate differential and changes in foreign valuation allowance) (2,133 ) 368 1,396 Establishment of valuation allowance 340 — 4,708 U.S. tax on foreign dividends 5,898 1,120 722 Current/deferred true-up 1,226 241 (1,499 ) Other, net 490 115 427 Total provision for income taxes $ 22,353 $ 14,422 $ 17,390 The deferred tax assets and liabilities are attributable to the following components: December 31, 2016 2015 Deferred tax assets attributable to: Foreign net operating loss carryforwards $ 26,902 $ 26,265 Accrued compensation & employee benefits 18,625 21,022 Deferred compensation 17,851 15,434 Foreign tax credit carryforwards 12,112 16,290 Accrued rent 5,113 5,285 Other accrued expenses 3,388 2,629 Deferred tax assets, before valuation allowance 83,991 86,925 Valuation allowance (25,020 ) (25,216 ) Deferred tax assets, after valuation allowance 58,971 61,709 Deferred tax liabilities attributable to: Goodwill 17,130 16,893 Taxes provided on unremitted earnings 3,331 4,406 Depreciation on property and equipment 4,723 4,562 Other 966 600 Deferred tax liabilities 26,150 26,461 Net deferred tax assets $ 32,821 $ 35,248 The recognition of deferred tax assets is based on management’s belief that it is more likely than not that the tax benefits associated with temporary differences, net operating loss carryforwards and tax credits will be utilized. The Company assesses the recoverability of the deferred tax assets on an ongoing basis. In making this assessment, the Company considers all positive and negative evidence, and all potential sources of taxable income including scheduled reversals of deferred tax liabilities, tax-planning strategies, projected future taxable income and recent financial performance. The valuation allowance decreased from $25.2 million at December 31, 2015 to $25.0 million at December 31, 2016. The valuation allowance at December 31, 2016 was related to foreign net operating loss carryforwards and certain foreign deferred tax assets. The Company intends to maintain these valuation allowances until sufficient evidence exists to support their reversal. At December 31, 2016, the Company had a net operating loss carryforward of $101.7 million related to its foreign filings and $0.5 million related to its U.S. state tax filings. Of the $101.7 million net operating loss carryforward, $79.9 million is subject to a valuation allowance. Depending on the tax rules of the tax jurisdictions, the losses can be carried forward indefinitely or for periods ranging from five to twenty years. The Company also has a foreign tax credit carryforward of $12.1 million , expiring in 2017 through 2025. At December 31, 2015, the Company had a net operating loss carryforward of $97.0 million related to its foreign filings and $1.1 million related to its U.S. state tax filings. Of the $97.0 million net operating loss carryforward, $75.6 million is subject to a valuation allowance. Depending on the tax rules of the tax jurisdictions, the losses can be carried forward indefinitely or for periods ranging from five to twenty years. The Company also had a foreign tax credit carryforward of $16.3 million , expiring in 2017 through 2025. As of December 31, 2016, the Company had unremitted earnings held in its foreign subsidiaries of approximately $72.7 million , of which the company has provided $3.3 million of tax on $15.6 million of earnings that are intended to be remitted. In 2016, the Company repatriated dividends from foreign operations to the United States. This resulted in additional book tax expense which will be offset by utilizing foreign tax credits. The Company did not recognize a deferred tax liability for U.S. income taxes and foreign withholding taxes related to the unremitted earnings of its foreign operations because the Company intends to reinvest those earnings indefinitely. If a distribution of these earnings were to be made, the Company might be subject to both foreign withholding taxes and U.S. income taxes, net of any allowable foreign tax credits or deductions. An estimate of these taxes; however, is not practicable. A deferred tax liability will be recognized if and when the Company is no longer able to demonstrate that it plans to permanently reinvest unremitted earnings. As of December 31, 2015, the Company had certain unremitted earnings held in its foreign subsidiaries of approximately $72.9 million , of which the company has provided $4.4 million of tax on $18.2 million of earnings that are intended to be remitted. The Company did not recognize a deferred tax liability for U.S. income taxes and foreign withholding taxes related to the unremitted earnings of its foreign operations because the Company intends to reinvest those earnings indefinitely. If a distribution of these earnings were to be made, the Company might be subject to both foreign withholding taxes and U.S. income taxes, net of any allowable foreign tax credits or deductions. An estimate of these taxes; however, is not practicable. A deferred tax liability will be recognized if and when the Company is no longer able to demonstrate that it plans to permanently reinvest unremitted earnings. As of January 1, 2016, the Company had $0.1 million of unrecognized tax benefits. As of December 31, 2016 the Company had $1.0 million of unrecognized tax benefits of which, if recognized, approximately $0.9 million , net of federal tax benefits, would be recorded as a component of income tax expense. A reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances of the total amounts of gross unrecognized tax benefits is as follows: December 31, 2016 2015 2014 Gross unrecognized tax benefits at January 1, $ 130 $ 143 $ 362 Gross increases for tax positions of prior years 2,146 22 151 Gross decreases for tax positions of prior years (4 ) (15 ) (191 ) Settlements (1,234 ) (20 ) (143 ) Lapse of statute of limitations — — (36 ) Gross unrecognized tax benefits at December 31, $ 1,038 $ 130 $ 143 In many cases the Company’s uncertain tax positions are related to tax years that remain subject to examination by the relevant taxable authorities. Years 2012 through 2015 are subject to examination by the state taxing authorities. The years 2013 to 2015 are subject to examination by the federal taxing authority. There are certain foreign jurisdictions that are subject to examination for years prior to 2012. The Company is currently under audit by some jurisdictions. It is likely that the examination phase of several of these audits will conclude in the next twelve months. No significant increases or decreases in unrecognized tax benefits are expected to occur by December 31, 2017. Estimated interest and penalties related to the underpayment of income taxes are classified as a component of the provision for income taxes in the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income. Accrued interest and penalties are $0.1 million as of December 31, 2016.

Segment Information

Segment Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Segment Information	In the fourth quarter of 2016, the Company restructured its operating segments. Given the significant growth of the Company's Leadership Consulting service line, the Company's chief operating decision maker began to regularly assess performance and make resource allocation decisions separately for Executive Search and Leadership Consulting. Therefore, the Company now reports Executive Search and Leadership Consulting as separate operating segments. Previously reported operating segment results for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 have been recast to conform to the new operating segment structure. The Company currently operates its executive search business in the Americas; Europe (which includes Africa); and Asia Pacific (which includes the Middle East) and operates its leadership consulting and culture shaping businesses as separate segments. For segment purposes, reimbursements of out-of-pocket expenses classified as revenue and other operating income are reported separately and, therefore, are not included in the results of each segment. The Company believes that analyzing trends in revenue before reimbursements (net revenue), analyzing operating expenses as a percentage of net revenue, and analyzing operating income (loss) more appropriately reflects its core operations. The revenue, operating income, depreciation and amortization, and capital expenditures, by segment, are as follows: December 31, 2016 2015 2014 Revenue: Executive Search Americas $ 313,292 $ 294,606 $ 253,718 Europe 108,754 92,135 103,416 Asia Pacific 85,319 89,026 83,537 Total Executive Search 507,365 475,767 440,671 Leadership Consulting 38,806 19,045 18,870 Culture Shaping 36,219 36,327 34,751 Revenue Before Reimbursements 582,390 531,139 494,292 Reimbursements 18,516 17,172 18,947 Total Revenue $ 600,906 $ 548,311 $ 513,239 Operating income (loss): Executive Search Americas $ 73,857 $ 68,043 $ 57,370 Europe 6,851 3,644 6,013 Asia Pacific 4,799 5,909 4,348 Total Executive Search 85,507 77,596 67,731 Leadership Consulting (1,495 ) (1,847 ) (357 ) Culture Shaping (1,558 ) 4,913 4,621 Total Segment Operating Income 82,454 80,662 71,995 Global Operations Support (47,221 ) (46,600 ) (45,342 ) Total Operating Income $ 35,233 $ 34,062 $ 26,653 Depreciation and Amortization Executive Search Americas $ 3,892 $ 3,858 $ 3,534 Europe 2,478 1,530 2,591 Asia Pacific 1,774 1,383 1,814 Total Executive Search 8,144 6,771 7,939 Leadership Consulting 2,501 393 138 Culture Shaping 4,341 4,520 5,325 Total Segments 14,986 11,684 13,402 Global Operation Support 1,447 2,012 1,910 Total $ 16,433 $ 13,696 $ 15,312 Capital Expenditures Executive Search Americas $ 2,221 $ 7,334 $ 2,794 Europe 835 890 466 Asia Pacific 3,346 1,030 465 Total Executive Search 6,402 9,254 3,725 Leadership Consulting 380 330 123 Culture Shaping 279 95 53 Total Segments 7,061 9,679 3,901 Global Operation Support 1,321 6,184 1,934 Total $ 8,382 $ 15,863 $ 5,835 Identifiable assets, and goodwill and other intangible assets, net, by segment, are as follows: December 31, 2016 2015 (As adjusted) (1) Current assets: Executive Search Americas $ 147,070 $ 157,550 Europe 54,153 47,425 Asia Pacific 60,704 57,046 Total Executive Search 261,927 262,021 Leadership Consulting 15,737 9,413 Culture Shaping 19,059 36,209 Total segments 296,723 307,643 Global Operations Support 1,707 1,320 Total allocated current assets 298,430 308,963 Unallocated non-current assets: 110,538 113,946 Goodwill and other intangible assets, net: Executive Search Americas 88,602 82,390 Europe 22,029 10,745 Asia Pacific 9,020 9,420 Total Executive Search 119,651 102,555 Leadership Consulting 12,757 2,548 Culture Shaping 40,126 44,706 Total goodwill and other intangible assets, net 172,534 149,809 Total assets: $ 581,502 $ 572,718 (1) The December 31, 2015 goodwill and other intangible assets, net balances do not reflect the relative fair value allocation of goodwill to the Leadership Consulting segment that occurred in the fourth quarter of 2016 as a result of the Company restructuring its reporting units. Refer to Note 8 , Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets, for additional information regarding the allocation of goodwill to the Leadership Consulting segment.

Guarantees

Guarantees	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Guarantees [Abstract]
Guarantees	Guarantees The Company has issued cash collateralized bank guarantees and letter of credit backed bank guarantees supporting certain obligations, primarily the payment of office lease obligations and business license requirements for certain of its subsidiaries in Europe and Asia Pacific. The bank guarantees were made to secure the respective agreements and are for the terms of the agreements, which extend through 2018 . For each bank guarantee issued, the Company would have to perform under the guarantee if the subsidiary defaults on a lease payment. The maximum amount of undiscounted payments the Company would be required to make in the event of default on all outstanding bank guarantees is approximately $ 2.3 million as of December 31, 2016. The Company has not accrued for these arrangements as no event of default exists or is expected to exist.

Commitments and Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments and Contingencies	Commitments and Contingencies Operating Leases The Company leases office space in 47 cities in 25 countries. The terms of these office-related leases provide that the Company pay base rent and a share of operating expenses and real estate taxes in excess of defined amounts. These leases expire at various dates through 2026. The Company also leases certain computer equipment and cars, the terms of which are accounted for as operating leases. Rent expense, which includes the base rent, maintenance costs, operating expenses and real estate taxes, and the costs of equipment leases for the years ended December 31, 2016 , 2015 and 2014 was $ 30.8 million , $29.6 million , and $ 32.3 million , respectively. Minimum future operating lease payments due in each of the next five years and thereafter are as follows: 2017 $ 31,400 2018 30,719 2019 29,117 2020 21,112 2021 17,398 Thereafter 36,684 Total $ 166,430 The aggregate minimum future payments on office leases are $164.2 million . The Company has contractual arrangements to receive aggregate sublease income of $1.0 million related to certain leases that expire at various dates through 2019. This sublease income primarily relates to properties that were part of prior office consolidations and closings. Certain leases provide for renewal options and payments of real estate taxes and other occupancy costs. In addition, certain leases contain rent escalation clauses that require additional rental amounts in later years of the term. Rent expense for leases with rent escalation clauses is recognized on a straight-line basis over the minimum lease term. The Company has an obligation at the end of the lease term to return the office to the landlord in its original condition, which is recorded at fair value at the time the liability is incurred. The Company had $2.6 million and $2.3 million of asset retirement obligations as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 , respectively. Litigation The Company has contingent liabilities from various pending claims and litigation matters arising in the ordinary course of the Company’s business, some of which involve claims for damages that are substantial in amount. Some of these matters are covered by insurance. Based upon information currently available, the Company believes the ultimate resolution of such claims and litigation, including the “ UK Employee Benefits Trust ” matter discussed below, will not have a material adverse effect on its financial condition, results of operations or liquidity. UK Employee Benefits Trust On January 27, 2010, HM Revenue & Customs (“HMRC”) in the United Kingdom notified the Company that it was challenging the tax treatment of certain of the Company’s contributions in the United Kingdom to an Employee Benefits Trust between 2002 and 2008. HMRC alleges that these contributions should have been subject to Pay As You Earn tax and Class 1 National Insurance Contributions in the United Kingdom; and HMRC is proposing an adjustment to the Company’s payroll tax liability for the affected years. The aggregate amount of HMRC’s proposed adjustment is approximately £3.9 million million (equivalent to $4.8 million at December 31, 2016 ). The Company has appealed the proposed adjustment. At this time, the Company believes that the likelihood of an unfavorable outcome with respect to the proposed adjustment is not probable and the potential amount of any loss cannot be reasonably estimated. The Company also believes that the amount of any final adjustment would not be material to the Company’s financial condition.

Summary of Significant Accoun26

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Reclassifications [Line Items]
Cash and Cash Equivalents	Cash and Cash Equivalents The Company considers all highly liquid instruments with an original maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents.
Concentration of Risk	Concentration of Risk The Company is potentially exposed to concentrations of risk associated with its accounts receivable. However, this risk is limited due to the Company’s large number of clients and their dispersion across many different industries and geographies. At December 31, 2016, the Company had no significant concentrations of risk.
Accounts Receivable	Accounts Receivable The Company’s accounts receivable consist of trade receivables. The allowance for doubtful accounts is developed based upon several factors including the age of the Company’s accounts receivable, historical write-off experience and specific account analysis. These factors may change over time, impacting the allowance level.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments	Fair Value of Financial Instruments Cash equivalents are stated at cost, which approximates fair market value. The carrying value for receivables from clients, accounts payable, deferred revenue and other accrued liabilities reasonably approximate fair market value due to the nature of the financial instruments and the short term nature of the items.
Property and Equipment		Property and Equipment Property and equipment are stated at cost. Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful life of the asset or, for leasehold improvements, the shorter of the lease term or the estimated useful life of the asset, as follows: Office furniture, fixtures and equipment 5–10 years Computer equipment and software 3–7 years Depreciation is calculated for tax purposes using accelerated methods, where applicable.
Long-lived Assets	Long-lived Assets The Company reviews its long-lived assets, including property and equipment, for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. Recoverability of assets to be held and used is measured by a comparison of the carrying amount of an asset to estimated undiscounted future cash flows expected to be generated by the asset. If the carrying amount of an asset exceeds its estimated future cash flows, an impairment charge, equal to the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds the fair value of the asset, is recognized.
Investments	Investments The Company’s investments consist primarily of available-for-sale investments within the U.S. non-qualified deferred compensation plan (the “Plan”). Available-for-sale investments are reported at fair value with changes in unrealized gains (losses) recorded as a separate component of Accumulated other comprehensive income in the Consolidated Balance Sheets until realized. Realized gains (losses) resulting from an employee’s termination from the Plan are recorded as a non-operating expense in the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income.
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets	Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets Goodwill represents the difference between the purchase price of acquired companies and the related fair value of the net assets acquired, which is accounted for by the acquisition method of accounting. Other intangible assets include client relationships, trade name, software, employee non-compete agreements and technology. The Company performs assessments of the carrying value of goodwill at least annually and of its goodwill and other intangible assets whenever events occur or circumstances indicate that a carrying amount of these assets may not be recoverable. These circumstances include a significant change in business climate, attrition of key personnel, changes in financial condition or results of operations, a prolonged decline in the Company’s stock price and market capitalization, competition, and other factors. The goodwill impairment test compares the fair value of a reporting unit to its carrying amount, including goodwill. The Company has historically operated four reporting units: the Americas; Europe, which includes Africa; Asia Pacific, which includes the Middle East; and Culture Shaping. During the fourth quarter of 2016, the Company revised its reporting unit structure based on the manner in which the Company's chief operating decision maker allocates resources and assesses performance. Under the revised reporting unit structure, the Company operates five reporting units: Americas Executive Search; Europe Executive Search, which includes Africa; Asia Pacific Executive Search, which includes the Middle East; Leadership Consulting; and Culture Shaping. If the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value, goodwill of the reporting unit would be considered impaired. To measure the amount of the impairment loss, the implied fair value of a reporting unit’s goodwill is compared to the carrying amount of that goodwill. If the carrying amount of a reporting unit’s goodwill exceeds the implied fair value of that goodwill, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess. The implied fair value of goodwill is determined in the same manner as the amount of goodwill recognized in a business combination is determined. The fair value of each of the Company’s reporting units is determined using a discounted cash flow methodology. In connection with the reporting unit structure change, the Company revised its historical methodology for allocating corporate costs to the reporting units for goodwill impairment purposes to more closely align with the Company's allocation methodology for financial reporting purposes and reflect estimated consumption. The Company also reallocated its goodwill to the new reporting unit structure utilizing the relative fair value method. The other intangible asset impairment review compares the carrying amount of an asset to estimated undiscounted future cash flows expected to be generated by the asset. If the carrying amount of an asset exceeds its estimated future cash flows, an impairment charge, equal to the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds the fair value, is recognized. Other intangible assets acquired are amortized either using the straight-line method over their estimated useful lives or based on the projected cash flow associated with the respective intangible assets.
Revenue Recognition	Revenue Recognition Revenue before reimbursements of out-of-pocket expenses (“net revenue”) consists of retainers and indirect expenses billed to clients. For each assignment, the Company and its client enter into a contract that outlines the general terms and conditions of the assignment. Typically, the Company is paid a retainer for its executive search services equal to approximately one-third of the estimated first year compensation for the position to be filled. In addition, generally, if the actual compensation of a placed candidate exceeds the estimated compensation, the Company often is authorized to bill the client for one-third of the excess. Indirect expenses are calculated as a percentage of the retainer with certain dollar limits per search. The Company generally bills its clients for its retainer and indirect expenses in one-third increments over a three -month period commencing in the month of a client’s acceptance of the contract. Net revenue is recognized when earned and realizable and therefore when the following criteria have been met: (a) persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, (b) services have been rendered, (c) the fee to our client is fixed or determinable, and (d) collectability is reasonably assured. Taxes collected from clients and remitted to governmental authorities are presented on a net basis. Typically, net revenue from standard executive search engagements is recognized over the expected average period of performance, in proportion to the estimated personnel time incurred to fulfill our obligations under the arrangements. Net revenue in excess of the retainer, resulting from actual compensation of the placed candidate exceeding the estimated compensation, is recognized upon completion of the executive search when the amount of the additional fee is known. Net revenue associated with culture shaping consulting is recognized proportionally as services are performed. Net revenue associated with licenses to use our culture shaping proprietary materials is typically recognized over the term of the arrangement. Depending on the terms of that agreement, net revenue from certain leadership consulting and non-standard executive search engagements is either recognized proportionally as services are performed or in accordance with the completion of the engagement deliverables.
Reimbursements	Reimbursements The Company incurs certain out-of-pocket expenses that are reimbursed by its clients, which are accounted for as revenue and expense in its Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income.
Salaries and Employee Benefits	Salaries and Employee Benefits Salaries and employee benefits consist of compensation and benefits paid to consultants, executive officers, and administrative and support personnel, of which the most significant elements are salaries and annual performance-related bonuses. Other items in this category are expenses related to sign-on bonuses, forgivable employee loans and minimum guaranteed bonuses (often incurred in connection with the hiring of new consultants), restricted stock unit and performance share unit amortization, payroll taxes, profit sharing and retirement benefits, and employee insurance benefits. Salaries and employee benefits are recognized on an accrual basis. Certain sign-on bonuses, retention awards, and minimum guaranteed compensation are capitalized and amortized in accordance with the terms of the respective agreements. A portion of the Company’s consultants’ and management cash bonuses are deferred and paid over a three -year vesting period. The portion of the bonus is approximately 15% depending on the employee’s level or position. The compensation expense related to the amounts being deferred is recognized on a graded vesting attribution method over the requisite service period. This service period begins on January 1 of the respective fiscal year and continues through the deferral date, which coincides with the Company’s bonus payments in the first quarter of the following year, and for an additional three year vesting period. The deferrals are recorded in Accrued salaries and employee benefits within both Current liabilities and Non-current liabilities in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
Income Taxes	Income Taxes Deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on the differences between the financial statement and tax basis of assets and liabilities, applying enacted statutory tax rates in effect for the year in which the tax differences are expected to reverse. Deferred tax assets are reduced by a valuation allowance when, in the opinion of management, it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are adjusted for the effects of changes in tax laws and rates on the date of enactment.
Earnings per Common Share	Earnings per Common Share Basic earnings per common share is computed by dividing net income by weighted average common shares outstanding for the year. Diluted earnings per share reflect the potential dilution that could occur if securities or other contracts to issue common stock were exercised or converted. Common equivalent shares are excluded from the determination of diluted earnings per share in periods in which they have an anti-dilutive effect. The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings per share: December 31, 2016 2015 2014 Net income $ 15,413 $ 17,132 $ 6,797 Weighted average shares outstanding: Basic 18,540 18,334 18,210 Effect of dilutive securities: Restricted stock units 347 234 155 Performance stock units 151 147 67 Diluted 19,038 18,715 18,432 Basic earnings per share $ 0.83 $ 0.93 $ 0.37 Diluted earnings per share $ 0.81 $ 0.92 $ 0.37
Translation of Foreign Currencies	Translation of Foreign Currencies The Company generally designates the local currency for all its subsidiaries as the functional currency. The Company translates the assets and liabilities of its subsidiaries into U.S. dollars at the current rate of exchange prevailing at the balance sheet date. Revenue and expenses are translated at a monthly average exchange rate for the period. Translation adjustments are reported as a component of Accumulated other comprehensive income .
Reclassifications [Text Block]	Reclassifications Certain prior year amounts have been recast as a result of the change in the Company's operating segments. The reclassifications had no impact on net income, net cash flows or stockholders' equity.
Recently Issued Financial Accounting Standards	Recently Issued Financial Accounting Standards In November 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") No. 2016-18, Statement of Cash Flows: Restricted Cash , which requires that the statement of cash flows explain the change during the period in the total of cash, cash equivalents, and amounts generally described as restricted cash or restricted cash equivalents. Therefore amounts generally described as restricted cash should be included with cash and cash equivalents when recording the beginning of period and end of period total amounts shown on the statement of cash flows. The Company currently does not include restricted cash amounts in the beginning and ending cash amounts and will change the presentation of the cash flow statement to include restricted cash in the beginning and ending cash totals. The standard is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017 with early adoption permitted.The Company has not yet determined when it will adopt this guidance. The impact of this change is not expected to be significant to the classification of these activities on the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows. In August 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued accounting Standards Update ("ASU") No. 2016-15, Statement of Cash Flows: Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments , which is intended to reduce diversity in practice as to how certain cash receipts and cash payments should be presented and classified. The standard is effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017 with early adoption permitted. The Company has evaluated the standard and noted the guidance for contingent consideration payments made after a business combination are applicable to the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows. The Company currently classifies all contingent consideration payments as financing activities. The impact of this change is not expected to be significant to the classification of these activities on the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows. In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-02, Leases , intended to improve financial reporting about leasing transactions. The new guidance will require entities that lease assets to recognize on their balance sheets the assets and liabilities for the rights and obligations created by those leases and to disclose key information about the leasing arrangements. ASU 2016-02 is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2018 with early adoption permitted. The guidance requires lessees and lessors to recognize and measure leases at the beginning of the earliest period presented using a modified retrospective approach. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this accounting guidance. The effect is not known or reasonably estimable at this time. In January 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-01, Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities , which addresses certain aspects of recognition, measurement, presentation and disclosure of financial instruments including the recognition of unrealized changes in fair value within net income. The standard is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this accounting guidance. The effect is not known or reasonably estimable at this time. In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers . The ASU requires that an entity recognizes revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customer in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the Company expects to be entitled in exchange for these goods or services. The effective date has been deferred for one year to the interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017. The guidance permits the use of either of the following transition methods: (i) a full retrospective method reflecting the application of the standard in each prior reporting period with the option to elect certain practical expedients or (ii) a retrospective method with the cumulative effect upon initial adoption recognized at the date of initial application (modified retrospective). The Company will adopt the guidance on January 1, 2018 and will apply the modified retrospective method. The Company is performing its evaluation of ASU No. 2014-09. The Company is paid a retainer for its executive search services equal to approximately one-third of the estimated first year compensation for the position to be filled. If the actual compensation of a placed candidate exceeds the estimated compensation, the Company is often authorized to bill the client for one-third of the excess. The Company currently recognizes revenue associated with the difference between the estimated compensation and actual compensation at the time this amount is considered fixed and determinable. Under ASU 2014-09, the difference between estimated compensation and actual compensation is considered variable consideration. The Company will be required to estimate the amount of variable consideration for its executive search services at contract inception. The Company is still evaluating the financial impact of this change. The Company is continuing to evaluate the impacts of adoption of this guidance and its preliminary assessments are subject to change. Recently Adopted Financial Accounting Standards In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-09, Stock Compensation: Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting , which is intended to simplify several aspects of the accounting for share-based payment transactions including the income tax accounting, classification of awards as either equity or liabilities, the accounting for forfeitures and classification on the statement of cash flows. The standard is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016 with early adoption permitted. The Company early adopted this standard during the fourth quarter of 2016. The adoption of this standard reduced tax expense by approximately $0.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2016.

Summary of Significant Accoun27

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Restricted Cash (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents Items [Line Items]
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Restricted Cash The Company has lease agreements and business licenses with terms that require the Company to restrict cash through the termination dates of the agreements, which extend through 2018. During 2016, the Company paid certain key executives of Senn Delaney a $6.5 million retention bonus out of restricted cash for remaining with the Company for three years subsequent to the acquisition (See Note 7, Acquisitions ). As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, the total restricted cash was $0.6 million and $7.8 million , respectively. Current and non-current restricted cash is included in Other current assets and Other non-current assets , respectively, on the Consolidated Balance Sheet.

Summary of Significant Accoun28

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Earnings Per Share, Diluted, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items]
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block]	The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings per share: December 31, 2016 2015 2014 Net income $ 15,413 $ 17,132 $ 6,797 Weighted average shares outstanding: Basic 18,540 18,334 18,210 Effect of dilutive securities: Restricted stock units 347 234 155 Performance stock units 151 147 67 Diluted 19,038 18,715 18,432 Basic earnings per share $ 0.83 $ 0.93 $ 0.37 Diluted earnings per share $ 0.81 $ 0.92 $ 0.37
Summary of Estimated Useful Life of Property and Equipment	Property and Equipment Property and equipment are stated at cost. Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful life of the asset or, for leasehold improvements, the shorter of the lease term or the estimated useful life of the asset, as follows: Office furniture, fixtures and equipment 5–10 years Computer equipment and software 3–7 years Depreciation is calculated for tax purposes using accelerated methods, where applicable.

Allowance for Doubtful Accoun29

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Receivables [Abstract]
Summary of Allowance for Doubtful Accounts	The activity of the allowance for doubtful accounts for the years ended: December 31, 2016 2015 2014 Balance at January 1, $ 5,376 $ 3,942 $ 4,709 Provision charged to income 1,407 2,772 241 Write-offs (4,106 ) (1,140 ) (772 ) Foreign currency translation (102 ) (198 ) (236 ) Balance at December 31, $ 2,575 $ 5,376 $ 3,942

Property and Equipment, net (Ta

Property and Equipment, net (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Components of Company's Property and Equipment	The components of the Company’s property and equipment are as follows: December 31, 2016 2015 Leasehold improvements $ 42,891 $ 40,583 Office furniture, fixtures and equipment 16,677 16,234 Computer equipment and software 30,186 28,648 Property and equipment, gross 89,754 85,465 Accumulated depreciation (54,655 ) (48,967 ) Property and equipment, net $ 35,099 $ 36,498

Fair Value Measurements (Tables

Fair Value Measurements (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Levels of Inputs Used to Measure Fair Value of Assets	Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) Total At December 31, 2016 U.S. non-qualified deferred compensation plan $ 17,346 $ — $ — $ 17,346 Assets designated for retirement and pension plans — 16,979 — 16,979 Pension benefit obligation — (22,128 ) — (22,128 ) Acquisition earnout accruals — — (10,991 ) (10,991 ) $ 17,346 $ (5,149 ) $ (10,991 ) $ 1,206 Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) Total At December 31, 2015 U.S. non-qualified deferred compensation plan $ 14,145 $ — $ — $ 14,145 Assets designated for retirement and pension plans — 18,164 — 18,164 Pension benefit obligation — (22,388 ) — (22,388 ) Acquisition earnout accruals — — (12,033 ) (12,033 ) $ 14,145 $ (4,224 ) $ (12,033 ) $ (2,112 )
Reconciliation of Beginning and Ending Balance of Level 3 Assets and Liabilities	The following table provides a reconciliation of the beginning and ending balance of Level 3 assets and liabilities for the year ended December 31, 2016. Acquisition Balance at December 31, 2015 $ (12,033 ) Acquisition earnouts (Note 7) (6,051 ) Co Company earnout amendment (Note 7) (577 ) Earnout accretion (635 ) Earnout payments 7,461 Foreign currency translation 844 Balance at December 31, 2016 $ (10,991 )

Goodwill and Other Intangible32

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Changes in Carrying Amount of Goodwill by Segment	Changes in the carrying amount of goodwill by segment for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 were as follows: Executive Search Americas Europe Asia Pacific Leadership Consulting Culture Total Gross goodwill at December 31, 2013 $ 82,640 $ 23,507 $ 10,854 $ — $ 29,780 $ 146,781 Exchange rate fluctuations (370 ) — (599 ) — (129 ) (1,098 ) Gross goodwill at December 31, 2014 82,270 23,507 10,255 — 29,651 145,683 Co Company acquisition — 10,745 — — — 10,745 Exchange rate fluctuations (644 ) — (1,044 ) — (111 ) (1,799 ) Gross goodwill at December 31, 2015 81,626 34,252 9,211 — 29,540 154,629 DSI acquisition 5,673 — — — — 5,673 Philosophy IB acquisition 2,357 — — — — 2,357 JCA acquisition — 15,769 — — — 15,769 Segment reallocation (1) (1,670 ) (4,517 ) (347 ) 6,534 — — Exchange rate fluctuations 115 (2,905 ) 29 — (316 ) (3,077 ) Gross goodwill at December 31, 2016 88,101 42,599 8,893 6,534 29,224 175,351 Accumulated goodwill impairment — (23,507 ) — — — (23,507 ) Net goodwill at December 31, 2016 $ 88,101 $ 19,092 $ 8,893 $ 6,534 $ 29,224 $ 151,844
Carrying Amount of Amortizable Intangible Assets and Related Accumulated Amortization	The Company’s other intangible assets, net by segment, are as follows: December 31, 2016 December 31, 2015 (As adjusted) Executive Search Americas $ 501 $ 764 Europe (1) 2,937 — Asia Pacific 127 209 Total Executive Search 3,565 973 Leadership Consulting (1) 6,223 2,548 Culture Shaping 10,902 15,166 Total Other Intangible Assets, Net $ 20,690 $ 18,687 (1) Due to the Company's change in segment reporting, intangible assets included in the Company's Europe Executive Search and Leadership Consulting segment in the prior year have been reallocated to the Leadership Consulting segment. The carrying amount of amortizable intangible assets and the related accumulated amortization were as follows: December 31, 2016 December 31, 2015 Weighted Gross Carrying Amount Accumulated Amortization Net Gross Carrying Amount Accumulated Amortization Net Carrying Amount Client relationships 8.1 $ 33,299 $ (21,653 ) $ 11,646 $ 25,414 $ (17,550 ) $ 7,864 Trade name 14.3 9,436 (4,465 ) 4,971 9,251 (3,416 ) 5,835 Software 7.0 7,200 (4,114 ) 3,086 7,200 (3,086 ) 4,114 Non-compete 4.4 974 (423 ) 551 586 (117 ) 469 Technology 5.0 604 (168 ) 436 442 (37 ) 405 Total intangible assets 9.3 $ 51,513 $ (30,823 ) $ 20,690 $ 42,893 $ (24,206 ) $ 18,687

Other Non-Current Liabilities (

Other Non-Current Liabilities (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Other Liabilities Disclosure [Abstract]
Components of Other Non-Current Liabilities	The components of other non-current liabilities are as follows: December 31, 2016 December 31, 2015 Premise related costs $ 18,188 $ 17,790 Accrued earnout payments 8,518 788 Other 1,582 1,269 Total other non-current liabilities $ 28,288 $ 19,847

Pension Plan and Life Insuran34

Pension Plan and Life Insurance Contract (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Reconcile Benefit Obligation for Pension Plan	2016 2015 Benefit obligation at January 1, $ 22,388 $ 26,985 Interest cost 453 436 Actuarial (gain) loss 1,178 (1,052 ) Benefits paid (1,198 ) (1,244 ) Cumulative translation adjustment (693 ) (2,737 ) Benefit obligation at December 31, $ 22,128 $ 22,388
Benefit Obligation Amounts Recognized in Consolidated Balance Sheets	The benefit obligation amounts recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets are as follows: December 31, 2016 2015 Current liabilities $ 1,281 $ 1,307 Noncurrent liabilities 20,847 21,081 Total $ 22,128 $ 22,388
Components of Assumptions Used to Determine Net Periodic Benefit Cost	The components of and assumptions used to determine the net periodic benefit cost are as follows: December 31, 2016 2015 2014 Net period benefit cost: Interest cost $ 453 $ 436 $ 799 Amortization of net loss 17 72 — Net periodic benefit cost $ 470 $ 508 $ 799 Weighted average assumptions Discount rate (1) 2.15 % 1.82 % 3.25 % Rate of compensation increase — % 1.75 % 1.75 %
Assumptions to Determine Company's Benefit Obligation	Assumptions to determine the Company’s benefit obligation are as follows: December 31, 2016 2015 2014 Discount rate (1) 1.53 % 2.15 % 1.82 % Rate of compensation increase — % — % 1.75 % Measurement Date 12/31/2016 12/31/2015 12/31/2014 (1) The discount rates are based on long-term bond indices adjusted to reflect the longer duration of the benefit obligation.
Summary of Benefits Expected to Be Paid in Each of Next Five Years	The benefits expected to be paid in each of the next five years, and in the aggregate for the five years thereafter are as follows: Year ending December 31, 2017 $ 1,281 2018 1,274 2019 1,266 2020 1,255 2021 1,241 2022 through 2026 5,883

Stock-Based Compensation (Table

Stock-Based Compensation (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Summary of Information with Respect to Stock-based Compensation	A summary of information with respect to stock-based compensation is as follows: December 31, 2016 2015 2014 Salaries and employee benefits $ 5,830 $ 4,616 $ 3,128 General and administrative expenses 563 450 451 Income tax benefit related to stock-based compensation included in net income 2,523 1,856 1,444
Restricted Stock Unit Activity	Restricted stock unit activity as of December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014: Number of Weighted- Outstanding on December 31, 2013 270,455 $ 18.64 Granted 295,733 18.02 Vested and converted to common stock (93,159 ) 19.65 Forfeited (10,312 ) 17.45 Outstanding on December 31, 2014 462,717 18.07 Granted 184,541 23.94 Vested and converted to common stock (146,307 ) 18.80 Forfeited (27,016 ) 20.74 Outstanding on December 31, 2015 473,935 19.98 Granted 207,405 22.92 Vested and converted to common stock (119,455 ) 20.02 Forfeited (24,612 ) 22.81 Outstanding on December 31, 2016 537,273 20.97
Performance Stock Unit Activity	Performance share unit activity as of December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014: Number of Weighted- Outstanding on December 31, 2013 61,321 $ 19.77 Granted 186,705 17.19 Vested and converted to common stock (9,429 ) 27.18 Forfeited (9,427 ) 27.18 Outstanding on December 31, 2014 229,170 17.06 Granted 59,221 23.64 Vested and converted to common stock (13,397 ) 20.62 Forfeited (2,970 ) 20.62 Outstanding on December 31, 2015 272,024 18.28 Granted 125,388 22.98 Vested and converted to common stock (160,600 ) 15.51 Forfeited — — Outstanding on December 31, 2016 236,812 22.64

Changes in Accumulated Other 36

Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Equity [Abstract]
Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income ("AOCI") by Component	The changes in Accumulated other comprehensive income (“AOCI”) by component for the year ended December 31, 2016 is summarized below: Available- Foreign Pension AOCI Balance at December 31, 2015 $ 2,394 $ 8,561 $ (1,696 ) $ 9,259 Other comprehensive income (loss) before classification, net of tax 1,279 (6,271 ) (1,156 ) (6,148 ) Amount reclassified from AOCI (1) (244 ) — 455 211 Net current period other comprehensive income (loss) 1,035 (6,271 ) (701 ) (5,937 ) Balance at December 31, 2016 $ 3,429 $ 2,290 $ (2,397 ) $ 3,322 (1) Available-for-Sale Securities and Pension reclassifications from AOCI are included in Interest, net, Other, net and Salaries and employee benefits , respectively, in the Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income.

Income Taxes (Tables)

Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Sources of Income (Loss) before Income Taxes	The sources of income before income taxes are as follows: December 31, 2016 2015 2014 United States $ 30,696 $ 26,550 $ 25,956 Foreign 7,070 5,004 (1,769 ) Income before income taxes $ 37,766 $ 31,554 $ 24,187
Provision for (Benefit from) Income Taxes	The provision for (benefit from) income taxes are as follows: December 31, 2016 2015 2014 Current Federal $ 12,261 $ 8,598 $ 10,997 State and local 3,219 1,697 3,141 Foreign 5,668 4,911 2,537 Current provision for income taxes 21,148 15,206 16,675 Deferred Federal 727 (1,551 ) (2,845 ) State and local (370 ) (180 ) (242 ) Foreign 848 947 3,802 Deferred provision (benefit) for income taxes 1,205 (784 ) 715 Total provision for income taxes $ 22,353 $ 14,422 $ 17,390
Reconciliation of Provision for (Benefit from) Income Taxes	A reconciliation of the provision for income taxes to income taxes at the statutory U.S. federal income tax rate of 35% is as follows: December 31, 2016 2015 2014 Income tax provision at the statutory U.S. federal rate $ 13,218 $ 11,044 $ 8,466 State income tax provision, net of federal tax benefit 1,904 1,272 1,423 Nondeductible expenses, net 1,410 262 1,747 Foreign taxes (includes rate differential and changes in foreign valuation allowance) (2,133 ) 368 1,396 Establishment of valuation allowance 340 — 4,708 U.S. tax on foreign dividends 5,898 1,120 722 Current/deferred true-up 1,226 241 (1,499 ) Other, net 490 115 427 Total provision for income taxes $ 22,353 $ 14,422 $ 17,390
Summary of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities	The deferred tax assets and liabilities are attributable to the following components: December 31, 2016 2015 Deferred tax assets attributable to: Foreign net operating loss carryforwards $ 26,902 $ 26,265 Accrued compensation & employee benefits 18,625 21,022 Deferred compensation 17,851 15,434 Foreign tax credit carryforwards 12,112 16,290 Accrued rent 5,113 5,285 Other accrued expenses 3,388 2,629 Deferred tax assets, before valuation allowance 83,991 86,925 Valuation allowance (25,020 ) (25,216 ) Deferred tax assets, after valuation allowance 58,971 61,709 Deferred tax liabilities attributable to: Goodwill 17,130 16,893 Taxes provided on unremitted earnings 3,331 4,406 Depreciation on property and equipment 4,723 4,562 Other 966 600 Deferred tax liabilities 26,150 26,461 Net deferred tax assets $ 32,821 $ 35,248
Reconciliation of Amounts of Gross Unrecognized Tax Benefits	A reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances of the total amounts of gross unrecognized tax benefits is as follows: December 31, 2016 2015 2014 Gross unrecognized tax benefits at January 1, $ 130 $ 143 $ 362 Gross increases for tax positions of prior years 2,146 22 151 Gross decreases for tax positions of prior years (4 ) (15 ) (191 ) Settlements (1,234 ) (20 ) (143 ) Lapse of statute of limitations — — (36 ) Gross unrecognized tax benefits at December 31, $ 1,038 $ 130 $ 143

Segment Information (Tables)

Segment Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Revenue, Operating Income, Depreciation and Amortization, and Capital Expenditures, by Segment	he revenue, operating income, depreciation and amortization, and capital expenditures, by segment, are as follows: December 31, 2016 2015 2014 Revenue: Executive Search Americas $ 313,292 $ 294,606 $ 253,718 Europe 108,754 92,135 103,416 Asia Pacific 85,319 89,026 83,537 Total Executive Search 507,365 475,767 440,671 Leadership Consulting 38,806 19,045 18,870 Culture Shaping 36,219 36,327 34,751 Revenue Before Reimbursements 582,390 531,139 494,292 Reimbursements 18,516 17,172 18,947 Total Revenue $ 600,906 $ 548,311 $ 513,239 Operating income (loss): Executive Search Americas $ 73,857 $ 68,043 $ 57,370 Europe 6,851 3,644 6,013 Asia Pacific 4,799 5,909 4,348 Total Executive Search 85,507 77,596 67,731 Leadership Consulting (1,495 ) (1,847 ) (357 ) Culture Shaping (1,558 ) 4,913 4,621 Total Segment Operating Income 82,454 80,662 71,995 Global Operations Support (47,221 ) (46,600 ) (45,342 ) Total Operating Income $ 35,233 $ 34,062 $ 26,653 Depreciation and Amortization Executive Search Americas $ 3,892 $ 3,858 $ 3,534 Europe 2,478 1,530 2,591 Asia Pacific 1,774 1,383 1,814 Total Executive Search 8,144 6,771 7,939 Leadership Consulting 2,501 393 138 Culture Shaping 4,341 4,520 5,325 Total Segments 14,986 11,684 13,402 Global Operation Support 1,447 2,012 1,910 Total $ 16,433 $ 13,696 $ 15,312 Capital Expenditures Executive Search Americas $ 2,221 $ 7,334 $ 2,794 Europe 835 890 466 Asia Pacific 3,346 1,030 465 Total Executive Search 6,402 9,254 3,725 Leadership Consulting 380 330 123 Culture Shaping 279 95 53 Total Segments 7,061 9,679 3,901 Global Operation Support 1,321 6,184 1,934 Total $ 8,382 $ 15,863 $ 5,835
Identifiable Assets, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets, Net, by Segment	Identifiable assets, and goodwill and other intangible assets, net, by segment, are as follows: December 31, 2016 2015 (As adjusted) (1) Current assets: Executive Search Americas $ 147,070 $ 157,550 Europe 54,153 47,425 Asia Pacific 60,704 57,046 Total Executive Search 261,927 262,021 Leadership Consulting 15,737 9,413 Culture Shaping 19,059 36,209 Total segments 296,723 307,643 Global Operations Support 1,707 1,320 Total allocated current assets 298,430 308,963 Unallocated non-current assets: 110,538 113,946 Goodwill and other intangible assets, net: Executive Search Americas 88,602 82,390 Europe 22,029 10,745 Asia Pacific 9,020 9,420 Total Executive Search 119,651 102,555 Leadership Consulting 12,757 2,548 Culture Shaping 40,126 44,706 Total goodwill and other intangible assets, net 172,534 149,809 Total assets: $ 581,502 $ 572,718

Commitments and Contingencies (

Commitments and Contingencies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Summary of Minimum Future Office Space and Equipment Lease Payments Due	Minimum future operating lease payments due in each of the next five years and thereafter are as follows: 2017 $ 31,400 2018 30,719 2019 29,117 2020 21,112 2021 17,398 Thereafter 36,684 Total $ 166,430

Summary of Significant Accoun40

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents maximum maturity period	3 months
Concentrations of risk	0
Percentage of estimated first year compensation received for executive search services		33.33%
Percentage of excess of actual over estimated compensation of placed candidate billed to client		33.33%
Percentage increments billed to clients for retainer and indirect expenses		33.33%
Period of billing specified increments for retailer and indirect expenses	3 months
Deferred cash bonuses paid to consultants and management over vesting period	3 years
Additional vesting period after deferral date for bonus payment	3 years
New Accounting Pronouncement, Early Adoption, Effect [Member]
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Noncurrent deferred income tax assets		$ 15.1	$ 12.1
Noncurrent deferred income tax liabilities		$ 0.2	$ 0.1
Maximum [Member]
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Portion of deferred bonus	15.00%

Summary of Significant Accoun41

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Summary of Estimated Useful Life of Property and Equipment (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Office Furniture, Fixtures and Equipment [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated useful life of assets	5 years
Office Furniture, Fixtures and Equipment [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated useful life of assets	10 years
Computer Equipment and Software [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated useful life of assets	3 years
Computer Equipment and Software [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated useful life of assets	7 years

Summary of Significant Accoun42

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Earnings Per Share (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Earnings Per Share, Diluted, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items]
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent	$ 15,413	$ 17,132	$ 6,797
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic	18,540	18,334	18,210
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted	19,038	18,715	18,432
Earnings Per Share, Basic	$ 0.83	$ 0.93	$ 0.37
Earnings Per Share, Diluted	$ 0.81	$ 0.92	$ 0.37
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]
Earnings Per Share, Diluted, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items]
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted	347	234	155
Performance Shares [Member]
Earnings Per Share, Diluted, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items]
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted	151	147	67

Summary of Significant Accoun43

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Restricted Cash (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents Items [Line Items]
Increase (Decrease) in Restricted Cash	$ (7,228)	$ 0	$ 53
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents	600	$ 7,800
Senn Delaney Leadership Consulting Group [Member]
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents Items [Line Items]
Increase (Decrease) in Restricted Cash	$ 6,500

Allowance for Doubtful Accoun44

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts - Summary of Allowance for Doubtful Accounts (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	$ 5,376	$ 3,942	$ 4,709
Provision charged to income	1,407	2,772	241
Write-offs	(4,106)	(1,140)	(772)
Foreign currency translation	102	198	236
Ending balance	$ 2,575	$ 5,376	$ 3,942

Property and Equipment, Net - C

Property and Equipment, Net - Components of Company's Property and Equipment (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, gross	$ 89,754	$ 85,465
Accumulated depreciation	(54,655)	(48,967)
Property and equipment, net	35,099	36,498
Leasehold Improvements [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, gross	42,891	40,583
Office Furniture, Fixtures and Equipment [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, gross	16,677	16,234
Computer Equipment and Software [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, gross	$ 30,186	$ 28,648

Property and Equipment, Net - A

Property and Equipment, Net - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Depreciation expense	$ 9.4	$ 8.8	$ 9.8

Restricted Cash - Additional In

Restricted Cash - Additional Information (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Abstract]
Extend termination dates of the leases	extend through 2018

Fair Value Measurements - Level

Fair Value Measurements - Levels of Inputs Used to Measure Fair Value of Assets (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets designated for retirement and pension plans	$ 16,979	$ 18,164
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation	(22,128)	(22,388)	$ (26,985)
Acquisition earnout accruals	(10,991)	(12,033)
Fair Value, Net Asset (Liability)	1,206	(2,112)
U.S. Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation Plan [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available for sale securities	17,346	14,145
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair Value, Net Asset (Liability)	17,346	14,145
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) [Member] | U.S. Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation Plan [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available for sale securities	17,346	14,145
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets designated for retirement and pension plans	16,979	18,164
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation	(22,128)	(22,388)
Fair Value, Net Asset (Liability)	(5,149)	(4,224)
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Acquisition earnout accruals	(10,991)	(12,033)
Fair Value, Net Asset (Liability)	$ (10,991)	$ (12,033)

Fair Value Measurements - Recon

Fair Value Measurements - Reconciliation of Beginning and Ending Balance of Level 3 Assets and Liabilities (Details) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)
Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Acquisition earnout accruals, beginning balance	$ (12,033)
Acquisition earnout accruals, ending balance	(10,991)
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Acquisition earnout accruals, beginning balance	(12,033)
Acquisition earnout	(6,051)
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Business Combination, Acquisition Earnout Adjustment, Fair Value	(577)
Earnout accretion	(635)
Earnout payments	7,461
Foreign currency translation	844
Acquisition earnout accruals, ending balance	$ (10,991)

Investments - Additional Inform

Investments - Additional Information (Detail) - U.S. Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation Plan [Member] - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Schedule of Fair Value of Separate Accounts by Major Category of Investment [Line Items]
Aggregate cost basis for investments	$ 13.3	$ 11.1
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Schedule of Fair Value of Separate Accounts by Major Category of Investment [Line Items]
Long-term Investments	$ 17.3	$ 14.1

Acquisitions - Additional Infor

Acquisitions - Additional Information (Detail) $ in Thousands, £ in Millions, AUD in Millions

Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)

Sep. 01, 2016USD ($)

Aug. 04, 2016GBP (£)

Aug. 04, 2016USD ($)

Feb. 09, 2016USD ($)

Oct. 01, 2015GBP (£)

Oct. 01, 2015USD ($)

Jun. 30, 2016USD ($)

Mar. 31, 2016USD ($)

Jun. 30, 2015USD ($)

Mar. 31, 2015USD ($)

Jun. 30, 2014USD ($)

Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)

Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)

Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)

Dec. 31, 2016GBP (£)

Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)

Dec. 31, 2016AUD

Feb. 29, 2016USD ($)

Dec. 31, 2015GBP (£)

Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)

Dec. 31, 2015AUD

Dec. 31, 2013USD ($)

Nov. 30, 2013USD ($)

Nov. 30, 2013AUD

Dec. 31, 2012USD ($)

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Accretion expense

$ 635

$ 1,294

$ 1,854

Goodwill

$ 151,844

$ 131,122

Philosophy IB [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Business Combination, Consideration Transferred

$ 6,000

Accrued additional cash consideration

1,100

Accretion expense

100

Identifiable intangible assets

2,900

Goodwill

2,400

Business Acquisition, Goodwill, Expected Tax Deductible Amount

$ 1,300

Goodwill acquired

2,357

JCA [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Business Combination, Consideration Transferred

$ 13,800

£ 11.2

$ 14,900

Accrued additional cash consideration

£ 2.7

3,300

Accretion expense

100

Identifiable intangible assets

3,900

Goodwill

15,800

Goodwill acquired

15,769

Decision Strategies [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Business Combination, Consideration Transferred

$ 9,000

Accrued additional cash consideration

1,700

Accretion expense

300

Identifiable intangible assets

$ 3,200

Goodwill

$ 5,700

Business Acquisition, Goodwill, Expected Tax Deductible Amount

$ 4,200

Goodwill acquired

5,673

Co Company [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Business Combination, Consideration Transferred

$ 8,800

£ 7.1

$ 10,800

Accrued additional cash consideration

£ 3.2

3,900

£ 2.8

4,200

Identifiable intangible assets

2,900

Goodwill

$ 10,700

Goodwill acquired

10,745

Payment of contingent consideration

$ 200

Scambler MacGregor [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Consideration paid to purchase

800

$ 1,000

AUD 1.1

Accrued additional cash consideration

800

AUD 1.1

1,200

AUD 1.6

Identifiable intangible assets

400

Goodwill acquired

$ 2,700

Acquisition date

November 2,013

Additional payments relates to final working capital settlement

$ 100

Estimated Fair Value Of Earnout Payment Payable

$ 2,100

AUD 2.8

Payment of contingent consideration

$ 400

$ 700

Senn Delaney [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Consideration paid to purchase

$ 53,500

Accrued additional cash consideration

$ 6,600

Business Acquisition, Goodwill, Expected Tax Deductible Amount

$ 19,100

Acquisition date

December 2,012

Percentage of equity of acquired company

100.00%

Additional cash consideration

$ 15,000

Business Combination Share Purchase Contingent Consideration Cash Payment

$ 6,800

$ 4,800

$ 3,400

Specific earnings milestones achieved period

Period December 2012 through December 2015

General and Administrative Expense [Member] | Co Company [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Accretion expense

$ 100

100

General and Administrative Expense [Member] | Senn Delaney [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Accretion expense

$ 200

1,100

Salaries and Employee Benefits [Member] | Senn Delaney [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Compensation expense

$ 2,100

Goodwill and Other Intangible52

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets - Changes in Carrying Amount of Goodwill by Segment (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	$ 131,122
Goodwill Segment Reallocation	0
Exchange rate fluctuations	(3,077)	$ (1,799)	$ (1,098)
Goodwill, Gross	175,351	154,629	145,683	$ 146,781
Ending Balance	151,844	131,122
Goodwill, Impaired, Accumulated Impairment Loss	(23,507)
Decision Strategies [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill acquired	5,673
Scambler MacGregor [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill acquired		2,700
Co Company [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill acquired		10,745
Philosophy IB [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill acquired	2,357
JCA [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill acquired	15,769
Executive Search [Member] | Americas [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill Segment Reallocation	(1,670)
Exchange rate fluctuations	115	(644)	(370)
Goodwill, Gross	88,101	81,626	82,270	82,640
Ending Balance	88,101
Goodwill, Impaired, Accumulated Impairment Loss	0
Executive Search [Member] | Asia Pacific [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill Segment Reallocation	(347)
Exchange rate fluctuations	29	(1,044)	(599)
Goodwill, Gross	8,893	9,211	10,255	10,854
Ending Balance	8,893
Goodwill, Impaired, Accumulated Impairment Loss	0
Executive Search [Member] | Europe [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill Segment Reallocation	(4,517)
Exchange rate fluctuations	(2,905)
Goodwill, Gross	42,599	34,252	23,507	23,507
Ending Balance	19,092
Executive Search [Member] | Decision Strategies [Member] | Americas [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill acquired	5,673
Executive Search [Member] | Co Company [Member] | Europe [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill acquired		10,745
Executive Search [Member] | Philosophy IB [Member] | Americas [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill acquired	2,357
Executive Search [Member] | JCA [Member] | Europe [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill acquired	15,769
Leadership Consulting [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill Segment Reallocation	6,534
Goodwill, Gross	6,534	0	0	0
Ending Balance	6,534
Goodwill, Impaired, Accumulated Impairment Loss	0
Culture Shaping [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Exchange rate fluctuations	(316)	(111)	(129)
Goodwill, Gross	29,224	$ 29,540	$ 29,651	$ 29,780
Ending Balance	29,224
Goodwill, Impaired, Accumulated Impairment Loss	$ 0

Goodwill and Other Intangible53

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets - Goodwill - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Culture Shaping [Member]
Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Percentage of fair value excess by carrying value	5.00%
Co Company [Member]
Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Goodwill acquired		$ 10,745
Executive Search and Leadership Consulting [Member] | Europe [Member]
Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Percentage of fair value excess by carrying value	68.00%
Executive Search and Leadership Consulting [Member] | Americas [Member]
Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Percentage of fair value excess by carrying value	118.00%
Executive Search and Leadership Consulting [Member] | Asia Pacific [Member]
Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Percentage of fair value excess by carrying value	38.00%
Executive Search [Member] | Europe [Member]
Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Percentage of fair value excess by carrying value	69.00%
Executive Search [Member] | Americas [Member]
Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Percentage of fair value excess by carrying value	124.00%
Executive Search [Member] | Asia Pacific [Member]
Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Percentage of fair value excess by carrying value	34.00%
Executive Search [Member] | Co Company [Member] | Europe [Member]
Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Goodwill acquired		$ 10,745
Leadership Consulting [Member]
Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Percentage of fair value excess by carrying value	46.00%

Goodwill and Other Intangible54

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets - Summary of Other Intangible Assets Net by Segment (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Net Carrying Amount	$ 20,690	$ 18,687
Executive Search [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Net Carrying Amount	3,565	973
Executive Search [Member] | Americas [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Net Carrying Amount	501	764
Executive Search [Member] | Europe [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Net Carrying Amount	2,937	0
Executive Search [Member] | Asia Pacific [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Net Carrying Amount	127	209
Leadership Consulting [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Net Carrying Amount	6,223	2,548
Culture Shaping [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Net Carrying Amount	$ 10,902	$ 15,166

Goodwill and Other Intangible55

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets - Carrying Amount of Amortizable Intangible Assets and Related Accumulated Amortization (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Weighted Average Life (in years)	9 years 3 months 15 days
Gross Carrying Amount	$ 51,513	$ 42,893
Accumulated Amortization	(30,823)	(24,206)
Net Carrying Amount	$ 20,690	18,687
Client relationships [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Weighted Average Life (in years)	8 years 1 month 1 day
Gross Carrying Amount	$ 33,299	25,414
Accumulated Amortization	(21,653)	(17,550)
Net Carrying Amount	$ 11,646	7,864
Trade Name [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Weighted Average Life (in years)	14 years 3 months 15 days
Gross Carrying Amount	$ 9,436	9,251
Accumulated Amortization	(4,465)	(3,416)
Net Carrying Amount	$ 4,971	5,835
Software [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Weighted Average Life (in years)	7 years
Gross Carrying Amount	$ 7,200	7,200
Accumulated Amortization	(4,114)	(3,086)
Net Carrying Amount	$ 3,086	4,114
Non-compete [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Weighted Average Life (in years)	4 years 4 months 24 days
Gross Carrying Amount	$ 974	586
Accumulated Amortization	(423)	(117)
Net Carrying Amount	$ 551	469
Technology-Based Intangible Assets [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Weighted Average Life (in years)	5 years
Gross Carrying Amount	$ 604	442
Accumulated Amortization	(168)	(37)
Net Carrying Amount	436	405
Culture Shaping [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Net Carrying Amount	$ 10,902	$ 15,166

Goodwill and Other Intangible56

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets - Intangible Assets- Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Net Carrying Amount	$ 20,690	$ 18,687
Intangible asset amortization expense, excluding impairment charge	7,100	$ 4,900	$ 5,500
Estimated Intangible asset amortization expense 2016	6,759
Estimated Intangible asset amortization expense 2017	4,978
Estimated Intangible asset amortization expense 2018	3,589
Estimated Intangible asset amortization expense 2019	1,859
Estimated Intangible asset amortization expense 2020	1,045
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, after Year Five	$ 2,460

Other Non-Current Liabilities -

Other Non-Current Liabilities - Components of Other Non-Current Liabilities (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Other Liabilities Disclosure [Abstract]
Premise related costs	$ 18,188	$ 17,790
Accrued earnout payments	8,518	788
Other	1,582	1,269
Total other non-current liabilities	$ 28,288	$ 19,847

Line of Credit - Additional Inf

Line of Credit - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($)	Mar. 08, 2017	Dec. 31, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Long-term Line of Credit, Noncurrent		$ 0
Senior Unsecured Revolving Line Of Credit Member [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Borrowing amount under term loan facility			$ 100,000,000
Sublimit for letters of credit			25,000,000
Line of credit facility expansion feature			$ 50,000,000
Subsequent Event [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Long-term Line of Credit, Noncurrent	$ 40,000,000

Employee Benefit Plans - Additi

Employee Benefit Plans - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Discretionary contribution amount	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0
U.S. Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Percentage to defer up base compensation of employees, effective from January 1, 2006	25.00%
Amount to defer up bonus compensation of employees, effective from January 1, 2006	$ 500,000
Percentage to defer up eligible bonus compensation, effective from January 1, 2006		25.00%
Amount of compensation deferred in plan	$ 14,900,000	$ 12,000,000
Percentage to defer up cash component of director's fees for non-employee [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Percentage to defer up directors' fees	100.00%
Non-Employee Directors Voluntary Deferred Compensation Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Amount of compensation deferred in plan	$ 2,400,000	2,100,000
Qualified Retirement Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Percentage for employee pre-tax and/or after-tax contributions, minimum	1.00%
Percentage for employee pre-tax and/or after-tax contributions, maximum	50.00%
Minimum amount of employee contributions	$ 6,000	$ 5,500	$ 5,000
Percentage of eligible compensation	6.00%	5.50%	5.00%
Eligible service period for company match	1 year
Defined Contribution Plan, Cost Recognized	$ 4,800,000	$ 3,300,000	$ 2,800,000

Pension Plan and Life Insuran60

Pension Plan and Life Insurance Contract - Reconcile Benefit Obligation for Pension Plan (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Benefit Obligation [Roll Forward]
Benefit obligation at January 1,	$ 22,388	$ 26,985
Interest cost	453	436	$ 799
Actuarial (gain) loss	(1,178)	1,052
Benefits paid	(1,198)	(1,244)
Cumulative translation adjustment	693	2,737
Benefit obligation at December 31,	$ 22,128	$ 22,388	$ 26,985

Pension Plan and Life Insuran61

Pension Plan and Life Insurance Contract - Benefit Obligation Amounts Recognized in Consolidated Balance Sheets (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan Amounts That Yet Not Amortized From Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss In Next Fiscal Year	$ 2,500	$ 3,600
Noncurrent liabilities	35,949	39,039
Assets designated for retirement and pension plans	18,164	16,979
Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Employer	1,300
German Pension [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Current liabilities	1,307	1,281
Noncurrent liabilities	21,081	20,847
Total	$ 22,388	$ 22,128

Pension Plan and Life Insuran62

Pension Plan and Life Insurance Contract - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Amount not recognized as a component of net periodic benefit cost	$ 2,500	$ 3,600
Fair value of pension benefits	18,164	16,979
Expected contribution to be paid into plan		$ 1,281
Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Employer	$ 1,300

Pension Plan and Life Insuran63

Pension Plan and Life Insurance Contract - Components of Assumptions Used to Determine Net Periodic Benefit Cost (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Net period benefit cost:
Interest cost	$ 453	$ 436	$ 799
Amortization of net loss	17	72	0
Net periodic benefit cost	$ 470	$ 508	$ 799
Weighted average assumptions
Discount rate	2.15%	1.82%	3.25%
Rate of compensation increase	0.00%	1.75%	1.75%

Pension Plan and Life Insuran64

Pension Plan and Life Insurance Contract - Assumptions to Determine Company's Benefit Obligation (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Discount rate	1.53%	2.15%	1.82%
Rate of compensation increase	0.00%	0.00%	1.75%
Measurement Date	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014

Pension Plan and Life Insuran65

Pension Plan and Life Insurance Contract - Summary of Benefits Expected to Be Paid in Each of Next Five Years (Detail) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
2,016	$ 1,281
2,017	1,274
2,018	1,266
2,019	1,255
2,020	1,241
2022 through 2026	$ 5,883

Stock-based Compensation - Addi

Stock-based Compensation - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	May 22, 2014	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Apr. 02, 2012
Restricted Stock Units [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Performance stock units vesting period			3 years
Pre-tax unrecognized compensation expense		$ 3.4
Expected time to be recognized		1 year 9 months 18 days
Performance Stock Units [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Pre-tax unrecognized compensation expense		$ 2.4
Expected time to be recognized		1 year 10 months 24 days
Performance Stock Units [Member] | Executive Officer [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Performance stock units vesting period		3 years
Performance stock units, Expiration Period		3 years
Performance Stock Units [Member] | Chief Executive Officer [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Performance stock units vesting period		2 years
Performance Stock Units [Member] | Minimum [Member] | Executive Officer [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Performance stock units, variation percentage		0.00%
Performance Stock Units [Member] | Maximum [Member] | Executive Officer [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Performance stock units, variation percentage		200.00%
Prior Program [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options and Non-Option Equity Instruments, Outstanding, Number		43,338
Awards outstanding (in shares)				671,528
Prior Program [Member] | Restricted Stock Units [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Non-Option Equity Instruments, Outstanding, Number		34,461
Prior Program [Member] | Employee Stock Option [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Awards outstanding (in shares)		8,877
2012 Program [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares authorized or reserved for issuance with respect to awards granted		1,300,000
Increase in number of shares of Common Stock reserved for issuance	700,000
Number of stock awards issued under 2012 Program (in shares)			1,397,410
Shares available for future awards		1,003,228
Number of forfeited awards under 2012 Program (in shares)		400,638
Award expiration date			May 24, 2022

Stock-based Compensation - Summ

Stock-based Compensation - Summary of Information with Respect to Stock-Based Compensation (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Salaries and employee benefits	$ 5,830	$ 4,616	$ 3,128
Income tax benefit related to stock-based compensation included in net income	2,523	1,856	1,444
General and Administrative Expense [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
General and administrative expenses	$ 563	$ 450	$ 451

Stock-based Compensation - Rest

Stock-based Compensation - Restricted Stock Unit Activity (Detail) - Restricted Stock Units [Member] - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized	$ 3.4
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward]
Number of Stock Units, Beginning balance (in shares)	473,935	462,717	270,455
Number of Stock Units, Granted (in shares)	207,405	184,541	295,733
Number of Stock Units, Vested and converted to common stock (in shares)	(119,455)	(146,307)	(93,159)
Number of Stock Units, Forfeited (in shares)	(24,612)	(27,016)	(10,312)
Number of Stock Units, Ending balance (in shares)	537,273	473,935	462,717
Weighted- Average Grant-date Fair Value
Weighted-Average Grant-date Fair Value, Beginning balance (in dollars per share)	$ 19.98	$ 18.07	$ 18.64
Weighted-Average Grant-date Fair Value, Granted (in dollars per share)	22.92	23.94	18.02
Weighted-Average Grant-date Fair Value, Vested and converted to common stock (in dollars per share)	20.02	18.80	19.65
Weighted-Average Grant-date Fair Value, Forfeited (in dollars per share)	22.81	20.74	17.45
Weighted-Average Grant-date Fair Value, Ending balance (in dollars per share)	$ 20.97	$ 19.98	$ 18.07
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition	1 year 9 months 18 days

Stock-based Compensation - Perf

Stock-based Compensation - Performance Stock Unit Activity (Detail) - Performance Stock Units [Member] - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized	$ 2.4
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward]
Number of Stock Units, Beginning balance (in shares)	272,024	229,170	61,321
Number of Stock Units, Granted (in shares)	125,388	59,221	186,705
Number of Stock Units, Vested and converted to common stock (in shares)	(160,600)	(13,397)	(9,429)
Number of Stock Units, Forfeited (in shares)	0	(2,970)	(9,427)
Number of Stock Units, Ending balance (in shares)	236,812	272,024	229,170
Weighted- Average Grant-date Fair Value
Weighted-Average Grant-date Fair Value, Beginning balance (in dollars per share)	$ 18.28	$ 17.06	$ 19.77
Weighted-Average Grant-date Fair Value, Granted (in dollars per share)	22.98	23.64	17.19
Weighted-Average Grant-date Fair Value, Vested and converted to common stock (in dollars per share)	15.51	20.62	27.18
Weighted-Average Grant-date Fair Value, Forfeited (in dollars per share)	0	20.62	27.18
Weighted-Average Grant-date Fair Value, Ending balance (in dollars per share)	$ 22.64	$ 18.28	$ 17.06
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition	1 year 10 months 24 days
Chief Executive Officer [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward]
Number of Stock Units, Vested and converted to common stock (in shares)	(125,000)

Changes in Accumulated Other 70

Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income - Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income ("AOCI") by Component (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	$ 9,259
Other comprehensive income (loss) before classification, net of tax	(6,148)
Amount reclassified from AOCI	(211)
Net current period other comprehensive income (loss)	5,937	$ 1,964	$ 3,746
Ending balance	3,322	9,259
Available-for-Sale Securities Adjustment [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	2,394
Other comprehensive income (loss) before classification, net of tax	1,279
Amount reclassified from AOCI	244
Net current period other comprehensive income (loss)	(1,035)
Ending balance	3,429	2,394
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	8,561
Other comprehensive income (loss) before classification, net of tax	(6,271)
Amount reclassified from AOCI	0
Net current period other comprehensive income (loss)	6,271
Ending balance	2,290	8,561
Pension Adjustment [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	(1,696)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before classification, net of tax	(1,156)
Amount reclassified from AOCI	(455)
Net current period other comprehensive income (loss)	701
Ending balance	$ (2,397)	$ (1,696)

Income Taxes - Sources of Incom

Income Taxes - Sources of Income before Income Taxes (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
United States	$ 30,696	$ 26,550	$ 25,956
Foreign	7,070	5,004	(1,769)
Income before income taxes	$ 37,766	$ 31,554	$ 24,187

Income Taxes - Provision for (B

Income Taxes - Provision for (Benefit from) Income Taxes (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Current
Federal	$ 12,261	$ 8,598	$ 10,997
State and local	3,219	1,697	3,141
Foreign	5,668	4,911	2,537
Current provision for income taxes	21,148	15,206	16,675
Deferred
Federal	727	(1,551)	(2,845)
State and local	(370)	(180)	(242)
Foreign	848	947	3,802
Deferred provision (benefit) for income taxes	1,205	(784)	715
Total provision for income taxes	$ 22,353	$ 14,422	$ 17,390

Income Taxes - Additional Infor

Income Taxes - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Statutory U.S. federal income tax rate	35.00%
Valuation allowance	$ 25,020	$ 25,216
Foreign tax credit carryforwards	12,112	$ 16,290
Losses carried forward		Indefinitely or for periods ranging from five to twenty years
Unremitted earnings held in foreign subsidiaries	72,700	$ 72,900
Tax provided on earnings	3,300	4,400
Unremitted earnings intended to be remitted	15,600	18,200
Unrecognized tax benefits	1,038	$ 130	$ 143	$ 362
Unrecognized tax benefit offset	$ 900
Several statutes of limitation expected to close	12 months
Accrued interest and penalties	$ 100
Minimum [Member]
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Foreign tax credit carryforward expiring	5 years	5 years
Operating loss carryforwards ranging period		5 years
Maximum [Member]
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Foreign tax credit carryforward expiring	20 years	20 years
Operating loss carryforwards ranging period		20 years
Foreign Tax Authority [Member]
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Net operating loss carryforward	$ 101,700	$ 97,000
Net operating loss carryforward subject to valuation allowance	79,900	$ 75,600
Income tax examination years subject to examination		Years prior to 2009
Federal Tax Authority [Member]
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Net operating loss carryforward	$ 500	$ 1,100
Income tax examination years subject to examination		Year 2,013
State Tax Authority [Member]
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Income tax examination years subject to examination		2009 through 2013

Income Taxes - Reconciliation o

Income Taxes - Reconciliation of Provision for (Benefit from) Income Taxes (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent	35.00%
Income tax provision at the statutory U.S. federal rate	$ 13,218	$ 11,044	$ 8,466
State income tax provision, net of federal tax benefit	1,904	1,272	1,423
Nondeductible expenses, net	1,410	262	1,747
Foreign taxes (includes rate differential and changes in foreign valuation allowance)	(2,133)	368	1,396
Establishment of valuation allowance	340	0	4,708
U.S. tax on foreign dividends	(5,898)	(1,120)	(722)
Current/deferred true-up	1,226	241	(1,499)
Other, net	490	115	427
Total provision for income taxes	$ 22,353	$ 14,422	$ 17,390

Income Taxes - Summary of Defer

Income Taxes - Summary of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Unremitted Earnings Of Foreign Subsidiary Intended To Be Remitted	$ 15,600	$ 18,200
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Undistributed Foreign Earnings	3,300	4,400
Undistributed Earnings of Foreign Subsidiaries	72,700	72,900
Deferred tax assets attributable to:
Foreign net operating loss carryforwards	26,902	26,265
Accrued compensation & employee benefits	18,625	21,022
Deferred compensation	17,851	15,434
Foreign tax credit carryforwards	12,112	16,290
Accrued rent	5,113	5,285
Other accrued expenses	3,388	2,629
Deferred tax assets, after valuation allowance	83,991	86,925
Valuation allowance	(25,020)	(25,216)
Deferred tax assets, after valuation allowance	58,971	61,709
Deferred tax liabilities attributable to:
Goodwill	17,130	16,893
Taxes provided on unremitted earnings	3,331	4,406
Depreciation on property and equipment	4,723	4,562
Other	966	600
Deferred tax liabilities	26,150	26,461
Net deferred tax assets	32,821	35,248
Domestic Tax Authority [Member]
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Operating Loss Carryforwards	500	1,100
Foreign Tax Authority [Member]
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Operating Loss Carryforwards	101,700	97,000
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Credit Carryforwards	12,100	16,300
Deferred tax liabilities attributable to:
Operating Loss Carryforwards, Valuation Allowance	$ 79,900	$ 75,600
Minimum [Member]
Deferred tax liabilities attributable to:
Foreign Tax Credit Carryforward Expiring Period	5 years	5 years
Maximum [Member]
Deferred tax liabilities attributable to:
Foreign Tax Credit Carryforward Expiring Period	20 years	20 years

Income Taxes - Reconciliation76

Income Taxes - Reconciliation of Amounts of Gross Unrecognized Tax Benefits (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Offset	$ 900
Unrecognized Tax Benefits Reconciliation [Roll Forward]
Gross unrecognized tax benefits at January 1,	130	$ 143	$ 362
Gross increases for tax positions of prior years	2,146	22	151
Gross decreases for tax positions of prior years	(4)	(15)	(191)
Settlements	(1,234)	(20)	(143)
Lapse of statute of limitations	0	0	(36)
Gross unrecognized tax benefits at December 31,	$ 1,038	$ 130	$ 143

Segment Information - Revenue,

Segment Information - Revenue, Operating Income, Depreciation and Amortization, and Capital Expenditures, by Segment (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Revenue:
Revenue before reimbursements (net revenue)	$ 582,390	$ 531,139	$ 494,292
Reimbursements	18,516	17,172	18,947
Total revenue	600,906	548,311	513,239
Operating income (loss):
Operating (loss) income	35,233	34,062	26,653
Depreciation and Amortization
Depreciation and amortization	16,433	13,696	15,312
Capital Expenditures
Capital expenditures	8,382	15,863	5,835
Operating Segments [Member]
Operating income (loss):
Operating (loss) income	82,454	80,662	71,995
Depreciation and Amortization
Depreciation and amortization	14,986	11,684	13,402
Capital Expenditures
Capital expenditures	7,061	9,679	3,901
Global Operations Support [Member]
Operating income (loss):
Global Operations Support	47,221	46,600	45,342
Depreciation and Amortization
Depreciation and amortization	1,447	2,012	1,910
Capital Expenditures
Capital expenditures	1,321	6,184	1,934
Executive Search [Member] | Operating Segments [Member]
Revenue:
Revenue before reimbursements (net revenue)	507,365	475,767	440,671
Operating income (loss):
Operating (loss) income	85,507	77,596	67,731
Depreciation and Amortization
Depreciation and amortization	8,144	6,771	7,939
Capital Expenditures
Capital expenditures	6,402	9,254	3,725
Leadership Consulting [Member] | Operating Segments [Member]
Revenue:
Revenue before reimbursements (net revenue)	38,806	19,045	18,870
Operating income (loss):
Operating (loss) income	(1,495)	(1,847)	(357)
Depreciation and Amortization
Depreciation and amortization	2,501	393	138
Capital Expenditures
Capital expenditures	380	330	123
Culture Shaping [Member] | Operating Segments [Member]
Revenue:
Revenue before reimbursements (net revenue)	36,219	36,327	34,751
Operating income (loss):
Operating (loss) income	(1,558)	4,913	4,621
Depreciation and Amortization
Depreciation and amortization	4,341	4,520	5,325
Capital Expenditures
Capital expenditures	279	95	53
Executive Search and Leadership Consulting Americas Segment [Member] | Executive Search [Member] | Operating Segments [Member]
Revenue:
Revenue before reimbursements (net revenue)	313,292	294,606	253,718
Operating income (loss):
Operating (loss) income	73,857	68,043	57,370
Depreciation and Amortization
Depreciation and amortization	3,892	3,858	3,534
Capital Expenditures
Capital expenditures	2,221	7,334	2,794
Executive Search and Leadership Consulting Europe Segment [Member] | Executive Search [Member] | Operating Segments [Member]
Revenue:
Revenue before reimbursements (net revenue)	108,754	92,135	103,416
Operating income (loss):
Operating (loss) income	6,851	3,644	6,013
Depreciation and Amortization
Depreciation and amortization	2,478	1,530	2,591
Capital Expenditures
Capital expenditures	835	890	466
Executive Search and Leadership Consulting Asia Pacific Segment [Member] | Executive Search [Member] | Operating Segments [Member]
Revenue:
Revenue before reimbursements (net revenue)	85,319	89,026	83,537
Operating income (loss):
Operating (loss) income	4,799	5,909	4,348
Depreciation and Amortization
Depreciation and amortization	1,774	1,383	1,814
Capital Expenditures
Capital expenditures	$ 3,346	$ 1,030	$ 465

Segment Information - Identifia

Segment Information - Identifiable Assets, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets, Net, by Segment (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Current assets:
Total allocated current assets	$ 298,430	$ 308,963
Unallocated non-current assets	110,538	113,946
Goodwill and other intangible assets, net:
Culture Shaping	172,534	149,809
Assets	581,502	572,718
Operating Segments [Member]
Current assets:
Total allocated current assets	296,723	307,643
Global Operations Support [Member]
Current assets:
Total allocated current assets	1,707	1,320
Executive Search [Member] | Operating Segments [Member]
Current assets:
Total allocated current assets	261,927	262,021
Goodwill and other intangible assets, net:
Culture Shaping	119,651	102,555
Leadership Consulting [Member] | Operating Segments [Member]
Current assets:
Total allocated current assets	15,737	9,413
Goodwill and other intangible assets, net:
Culture Shaping	12,757	2,548
Culture Shaping [Member] | Operating Segments [Member]
Current assets:
Total allocated current assets	19,059	36,209
Goodwill and other intangible assets, net:
Culture Shaping	40,126	44,706
Americas [Member] | Executive Search [Member] | Operating Segments [Member]
Current assets:
Total allocated current assets	147,070	157,550
Goodwill and other intangible assets, net:
Culture Shaping	88,602	82,390
Europe [Member] | Executive Search [Member] | Operating Segments [Member]
Current assets:
Total allocated current assets	54,153	47,425
Goodwill and other intangible assets, net:
Culture Shaping	22,029	10,745
Asia Pacific [Member] | Executive Search [Member] | Operating Segments [Member]
Current assets:
Total allocated current assets	60,704	57,046
Goodwill and other intangible assets, net:
Culture Shaping	$ 9,020	$ 9,420

Guarantees - Additional Informa

Guarantees - Additional Information (Detail) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)
Guarantees [Abstract]
Extend termination dates of the leases	extend through 2018
Maximum undiscounted payments under outstanding guarantees	$ 2.3

Commitments and Contingencies -

Commitments and Contingencies - Additional Information (Detail) $ in Thousands, £ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016GBP (£)	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]
Number of cities in which office spaces leased		47
Lease expiration period description		Through 2,026
Number of countries in which office spaces leased	25
Rent expense, costs of equipment leases and maintenance costs	$ 30,800	$ 29,600	$ 32,300
Aggregate minimum future payments on office leases					$ 166,430
Sublease expiration period		Through 2,016
Asset retirement obligation		$ 2,300			2,600
Income Tax Examination, Liability (Refund) Adjustment from Settlement with Taxing Authority				£ 3.9	4,800
Office Leases [Member]
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]
Aggregate minimum future payments on office leases					$ 164,222

Commitments and Contingencies81

Commitments and Contingencies - Summary of Minimum Future Office Space and Equipment Lease Payments Due (Detail) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]
2,016	$ 31,400
2,017	30,719
2,018	29,117
2,019	21,112
2,020	17,398
Thereafter	36,684
Total	166,430
Office Leases [Member]
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]
2,016	30,612
2,017	30,017
2,018	28,607
2,019	20,930
2,020	17,385
Thereafter	36,671
Total	164,222
Equipment Leases [Member]
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]
2,016	788
2,017	702
2,018	510
2,019	182
2,020	13
Thereafter	13
Total	$ 2,208

Commitments and Contingencies82

Commitments and Contingencies - Litigation - Additional Information (Detail) - Dec. 31, 2016 £ in Millions, $ in Millions	GBP (£)	USD ($)
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Proposed adjustment to payroll tax liability	£ 3.9	$ 4.8