Heidrick & Struggles International (HSII) 10-K 11 Mar 15 2014 FY Annual report Financial data

Document_and_Entity_Informatio

Document and Entity Information (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Mar. 05, 2015	Jun. 30, 2014
Document And Entity Information [Abstract]
Document Type	10-K
Amendment Flag	FALSE
Document Period End Date	31-Dec-14
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2014
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Trading Symbol	HSII
Entity Registrant Name	HEIDRICK & STRUGGLES INTERNATIONAL INC
Entity Central Index Key	1066605
Current Fiscal Year End Date	-19
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		18,244,337
Entity Public Float			$337,275,702

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$211,352	$181,646
Restricted cash	6,501	130
Accounts receivable, net	68,353	71,666
Other receivables	10,613	6,906
Prepaid expenses	14,536	14,786
Other current assets	1,592	1,807
Income taxes recoverable	5,288	5,772
Deferred income taxes	12,094	8,061
Total current assets	330,329	290,774
Non-current assets:
Property and equipment, net	30,417	34,961
Restricted cash	1,411	7,878
Assets designated for retirement and pension plans	19,426	22,685
Investments	13,989	13,848
Other non-current assets	6,601	5,693
Goodwill	122,176	123,274
Other intangible assets, net	20,939	26,637
Deferred income taxes	23,413	27,474
Total non-current assets	238,372	262,450
Total assets	568,701	553,224
Current liabilities:
Current portion of debt	6,000	6,000
Accounts payable	5,493	7,791
Accrued salaries and employee benefits	130,434	109,943
Deferred revenue, net	30,452	27,714
Other current liabilities	26,835	18,938
Income taxes payable	6,684	5,401
Total current liabilities	205,898	175,787
Non-current liabilities:
Non-current debt, less current maturities	23,500	29,500
Retirement and pension plans	39,892	38,735
Other non-current liabilities	54,747	61,329
Total non-current liabilities	118,139	129,564
Total liabilities	324,037	305,351
Commitments and contingencies (Note 20)
Stockholders' equity:
Preferred stock, $0.01 par value, 10,000,000 shares authorized, no shares issued at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013
Common stock, $0.01 par value, 100,000,000 shares authorized, 19,585,777 shares issued, 18,239,939 and 18,134,129 shares outstanding at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively	196	196
Treasury stock at cost, 1,345,838 and 1,451,648 shares at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively	-44,261	-47,811
Additional paid in capital	232,075	232,008
Retained earnings	45,431	48,511
Accumulated other comprehensive income	11,223	14,969
Total stockholders' equity	244,664	247,873
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity	$568,701	$553,224

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets_Pa

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Preferred stock, par value	$0.01	$0.01
Preferred stock, shares authorized	10,000,000	10,000,000
Preferred stock, shares issued	0	0
Common stock, par value	$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	18,239,939	18,134,129
Treasury stock, shares	1,345,838	1,451,648

Consolidated_Statements_of_Com

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Revenue:
Revenue before reimbursements (net revenue)	$494,292	$461,995	$443,777
Reimbursements	18,947	18,998	21,304
Total revenue	513,239	480,993	465,081
Operating expenses:
Salaries and employee benefits	337,448	319,499	309,502
General and administrative expenses	130,191	126,931	113,826
Reimbursed expenses	18,947	18,998	21,304
Restructuring charges			810
Total operating expenses	486,586	465,428	445,442
Operating income	26,653	15,565	19,639
Non-operating (expense) income:
Interest, net	-358	-175	1,118
Other, net	-2,108	-2,002	-495
Net non-operating (expense) income	-2,466	-2,177	623
Income before income taxes	24,187	13,388	20,262
Provision for income taxes	17,390	7,041	14,022
Net income	6,797	6,347	6,240
Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax:
Foreign currency translation adjustment	-1,235	-1,999	-467
Net unrealized gain on available-for-sale investments	262	1,265	1,091
Pension (loss) gain adjustment	-2,736	628	-1,901
Unrealized (loss) gain on cash flow hedge	-37	115
Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax	-3,746	9	-1,277
Comprehensive income	$3,051	$6,356	$4,963
Basic weighted average common shares outstanding	18,210	18,077	17,971
Diluted weighted average common shares outstanding	18,432	18,232	18,120
Basic net income per common share	$0.37	$0.35	$0.35
Diluted net income per common share	$0.37	$0.35	$0.34
Cash dividends paid per share	$0.52	$0.39	$0.65

Consolidated_Statements_of_Cha

Consolidated Statements of Changes In Stockholders' Equity (USD $)	Total	Common Stock [Member]	Treasury Stock [Member]	Additional Paid in Capital [Member]	Retained Earnings [Member]	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member]
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Beginning Balance at Dec. 31, 2011	$251,295	$196	($58,690)	$238,523	$55,029	$16,237
Beginning Balance, shares at Dec. 31, 2011		19,586	1,715
Net income	6,240				6,240
Other comprehensive income, net of tax	-1,277					-1,277
Treasury and common stock transactions:
Stock-based compensation	4,199			4,199
Vesting of equity, net of tax witholdings	-1,653		6,344	-7,997
Vesting of equity, net of tax withholdings, shares			-184
Purchases of treasury stock	-1,123		-1,123
Purchases of treasury stock, share			88
Re-issuance of treasury stock	450		946	-496
Re-issuance of treasury stock, shares			-27
Cash dividends declared ($0.52 per share)	-9,362				-9,362
Dividend equivalents on restricted stock units	-203				-203
Tax deficit related to stock-based compensation	-219			-219
Ending Balance at Dec. 31, 2012	248,347	196	-52,523	234,010	51,704	14,960
Ending Balance, shares at Dec. 31, 2012		19,586	1,592
Net income	6,347				6,347
Other comprehensive income, net of tax	9					9
Treasury and common stock transactions:
Stock-based compensation	3,747			3,747
Vesting of equity, net of tax witholdings	-714		4,038	-4,752
Vesting of equity, net of tax withholdings, shares			-120
Re-issuance of treasury stock	300		674	-374
Re-issuance of treasury stock, shares			-20
Cash dividends declared ($0.52 per share)	-9,415				-9,415
Dividend equivalents on restricted stock units	-125				-125
Tax deficit related to stock-based compensation	-623			-623
Ending Balance at Dec. 31, 2013	247,873	196	-47,811	232,008	48,511	14,969
Ending Balance, shares at Dec. 31, 2013		19,586	1,452
Net income	6,797				6,797
Other comprehensive income, 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 witholdings	-405		2,737	-3,142
Vesting of equity, net of tax withholdings, shares			-82
Re-issuance of treasury stock	450		813	-363
Re-issuance of treasury stock, shares			-24
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 at Dec. 31, 2014	$244,664	$196	($44,261)	$232,075	$45,431	$11,223
Ending Balance, shares at Dec. 31, 2014		19,586	1,346

Consolidated_Statements_of_Cha1

Consolidated Statements of Changes In Stockholders' Equity (Parenthetical) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Cash dividends per share	$0.52	$0.52	$0.52
Retained Earnings [Member]
Cash dividends per share	$0.52	$0.52	$0.52

Consolidated_Statements_of_Cas

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Cash flows - operating activities:
Net income	$6,797	$6,347	$6,240
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	15,312	16,275	10,801
Deferred income taxes	237	-3,749	2,331
Stock-based compensation expense	3,579	3,747	4,199
Accretion expense related to earnout payments	1,854	2,082
Restructuring charges			810
Cash paid for restructuring charges	-142	-999	-9,128
Changes in assets and liabilities, net of effects of acquisitions:
Accounts and other receivables	-4,129	236	6,288
Accounts payable	-2,113	-504	-471
Accrued expenses	29,979	12,888	-28,202
Deferred revenue	3,486	2,735	6,447
Income taxes recoverable, net	1,482	4,292	10,182
Retirement and pension plan assets and liabilities	4,477	1,201	1,594
Prepaid expenses	-207	-625	2,897
Other assets and liabilities, net	-3,848	107	-1,495
Net cash provided by operating activities	56,764	44,033	12,493
Cash flows - investing activities:
Restricted cash	-53	26	-6,230
Acquisition of business and earnout payments, net of cash acquired		-1,023	-52,733
Capital expenditures	-3,359	-3,731	-7,504
Purchases of available for sale investments	-963	-749	-1,121
Proceeds from sale of available for sale investments	1,084	252	137
Other, net			200
Net cash used in investing activities	-3,291	-5,225	-67,251
Cash flows - financing activities:
Proceeds from debt issuance		40,000
Debt repayment	-6,000	-4,500
Cash dividends paid	-9,864	-7,260	-11,991
Payment of employee tax withholdings on equity transactions	-406	-713	-1,653
Purchases of treasury stock			-1,123
Acquisition earnout payments	-3,390	-357	-381
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities	-19,660	27,170	-15,148
Effect of exchange rates fluctuations on cash and cash equivalents	-4,107	-1,937	2,121
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	29,706	64,041	-67,785
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	181,646	117,605	185,390
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	211,352	181,646	117,605
Cash paid for
Gross income taxes	14,175	6,650	8,191
Interest	$861	$879	$21

Basis_of_Presentation

Basis of Presentation	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Basis of Presentation	1	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.
	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, allowance for doubtful accounts, allowances for deferred tax assets, assessment of goodwill and other intangible assets for impairment, compensation accruals, stock-based compensation and contingent liabilities. Estimates are subject to a degree of uncertainty and actual results could differ from these estimates.

Summary_of_Significant_Account

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	2	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, 2014, the Company had no significant concentrations of risk.
	Accounts Receivable
	The Company’s accounts receivable primarily 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 and 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		3–8 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”) and warrants for equity securities in client companies classified as derivative instruments, cost method investments or available-for-sale investments.
	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 income (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 and employee non-compete agreements. 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’s reporting units include Americas, Europe, Asia Pacific 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.
	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, if the actual compensation of a placed candidate exceeds the estimated compensation, the Company often will be 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 license.
	Net revenue from certain leadership consulting and non-standard executive search engagements is recognized 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 and minimum guaranteed bonuses (often incurred in connection with the hiring of new consultants), restricted stock unit amortization, payroll taxes, profit sharing and retirement benefits, and employee insurance benefits.
	Salaries and employee benefits are recognized on an accrual basis. Certain signing 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 that is deferred varies between 10% and 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 and Other non-current liabilities in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
	Stock-Based Compensation
	The Company accounts for stock-based compensation, primarily consisting of restricted stock units, based on the fair value of the award at grant date, which is typically the closing stock-price, and recognizes compensation expense over the requisite service period.
	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.
	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.
	Recently Issued Financial Accounting Standards
	In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“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 a customer in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the Company expects to be entitled in exchange for these goods or services. The standard is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim periods, using either of the following transition methods: (i) a full retrospective approach reflecting the application of the standard in each prior reporting period with the option to elect certain practical expedients or (ii) a retrospective approach with the cumulative effect upon initial adoption recognized at the date of adoption. The Company is currently evaluating the effect that this pronouncement will have on its financial statements and related disclosures. The effect is not currently known or reasonably estimable at this time.

Allowance_for_Doubtful_Account

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Receivables [Abstract]
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts	3	Allowance for Doubtful Accounts
	The activity of the allowance for doubtful accounts for the years ended:
			December 31,
			2014			2013			2012
	Balance at January 1,		$	4,709		$	4,798		$	3,805
	Provision charged to income			241			851			2,175
	Write-offs			(772	)		(870	)		(1,281	)
	Currency			(236	)		(70	)		99
	Balance at December 31,		$	3,942		$	4,709		$	4,798

Property_and_Equipment_net

Property and Equipment, net	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Property and Equipment, net	4	Property and Equipment, net
	The components of the Company’s property and equipment are as follows:
			December 31,
			2014			2013
	Leasehold improvements		$	43,930		$	44,242
	Office furniture, fixtures and equipment			18,693			24,301
	Computer equipment and software			30,751			38,039
	Property and equipment, gross			93,374			106,582
	Accumulated depreciation			(62,957	)		(71,621	)
	Property and equipment, net		$	30,417		$	34,961
	Depreciation expense for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012 was $9.8 million, $10.4 million, and $10.2 million, respectively.

Restricted_Cash

Restricted Cash	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Abstract]
Restricted Cash	5	Restricted Cash
	The components of the Company’s restricted cash are as follows:
			December 31,
			2014		2013
	Current restricted cash
	Retention escrow		$	6,501	$	—
	Bank guarantees			—		130
	Total current restricted cash		$	6,501	$	130
	Non-current restricted cash
	Retention escrow		$	—	$	6,501
	Lease guarantees			1,316		1,377
	Business licenses			95		—
	Total non-current restricted cash		$	1,411	$	7,878
	The retention escrow is associated with the Senn Delaney acquisition and will be paid to certain key executives of Senn Delaney if they remain with the Company for three years subsequent to the acquisition (See Note 8, Acquisitions). The Company has certain business licenses and lease agreements with terms that require the Company to restrict cash through the termination dates of the agreements, which extend through 2017 and 2018, respectively.

Investments

Investments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Investments Schedule [Abstract]
Investments	6	Investments
	The components of the Company’s investments are as follows:
			December 31,
			2014		2013
	U.S. non-qualified deferred compensation plan		$	13,709	$	13,232
	Warrants and equity securities			280		616
	Total		$	13,989	$	13,848
	The Company’s U.S. non-qualified deferred compensation plan consists primarily of U.S. marketable securities and mutual funds, all of which are valued using Level 1 inputs (See Note 7, Fair Value Measurements). The aggregate cost basis for these investments was $10.1 million and $9.9 million as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

Fair_Value_Measurements

Fair Value Measurements	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value Measurements	7	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			Significant			Significant			Total
			in Active			Other			Unobservable
			Markets for			Observable			Inputs
			Identical Assets			Inputs			(Level 3)
			(Level 1)			(Level 2)
	At December 31, 2014
	U.S. non-qualified deferred compensation plan		$	13,709		$	—		$	—		$	13,709
	Assets designated for retirement and pension plans			—			20,880			—			20,880
	Derivatives designated as cash flow hedge			—			125			—			125
	Warrants and equity securities			—			—			280			280
	Acquisition earnout accruals			—			—			(12,944	)		(12,944	)
			$	13,709		$	21,005		$	(12,664	)	$	22,050
			Quoted Prices			Significant			Significant			Total
			in Active			Other			Unobservable
			Markets for			Observable			Inputs
			Identical Assets			Inputs			(Level 3)
			(Level 1)			(Level 2)
	At December 31, 2013
	U.S. non-qualified deferred compensation plan		$	13,232		$	—		$	—		$	13,232
	Assets designated for retirement and pension plans			—			24,312			—			24,312
	Derivatives designated as cash flow hedge			—			180			—			180
	Warrants and equity securities			—			—			616			616
	Acquisition earnout accruals			—			—			(14,053	)		(14,053	)
			$	13,232		$	24,492		$	(13,437	)	$	24,287
	The following table provides a reconciliation of the beginning and ending balance of Level 3 assets and liabilities for the year ended December 31, 2014.
			Warrants			Acquisition			Total
			and Equity			Earnout
			Securities			Accruals
	Balance at December 31, 2013		$	616		$	(14,053	)	$	(13,437	)
	Realized / unrealized gains			(336	)		—			(336	)
	Earnout accretion			—			(1,854	)		(1,854	)
	Earnout payments			—			3,390			3,390
	Foreign currency translation			—			(427	)		(427	)
	Balance at December 31, 2014		$	280		$	(12,944	)	$	(12,664	)
	The Level 2 assets above are fair valued using a market approach. The Level 3 liabilities are: (i) accruals for future earnout payments related to prior acquisitions, the values of which are determined based on discounted cash flow models; and (ii) warrant and equity securities, the values of which are determined using a valuation model. 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, 2014 and December 31, 2013 based upon the short-term nature of the assets and liabilities.

Acquisition

Acquisition	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Acquisition	8	Acquisition
	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 $0.9 million at December 31, 2014 and $1.0 million at December 31, 2013) 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 based on the achievement of certain revenue metrics over the period November 2013 through December 2018. When estimating the fair value of future earnout payments, the Company has accrued 2.4 million Australian dollars and 2.3 million Australian dollars (equivalent to $2.0 million and $2.1 million, respectively) as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, 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.
	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 $3.4 million was paid during the second quarter of 2014. The Company has accrued $10.9 million and $12.1 million at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively, for the remaining cash consideration. The Company has recognized $1.7 million and $2.1 million of accretion expense included in General and administrative expenses in December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. The Company also holds $6.5 million in a retention escrow that will be paid to certain key executives of Senn Delaney if they remain with the Company for three years subsequent to the acquisition. The Company recognized $2.0 million and $2.3 million of compensation expense included in Salaries and employee benefits in December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, related to the retention awards.

Goodwill_and_Other_Intangible_

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets	9	Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets
	Goodwill
	Changes in the carrying amount of goodwill by segment for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 were as follows:
			Executive			Executive			Culture			Total
			Search and			Search and			Shaping
			Leadership			Leadership
			Consulting-			Consulting-
			Americas			Asia Pacific
	Balance at December 31, 2011		$	82,814		$	7,882		$	—		$	90,696
	Senn-Delaney acquisition			—			—			29,707			29,707
	Exchange rate fluctuations			127			410			—			537
	Balance at December 31, 2012			82,941			8,292			29,707			120,940
	Scambler MacGregor acquisition			—			2,729			—			2,729
	Exchange rate fluctuations			(301	)		(167	)		73			(395	)
	Balance at December 31, 2013			82,640			10,854			29,780			123,274
	Exchange rate fluctuations			(370	)		(599	)		(129	)		(1,098	)
	Balance at December 31, 2014		$	82,270		$	10,255		$	29,651		$	122,176
	During the 2014 fourth quarter, the Company conducted its annual goodwill impairment evaluation as of October 31, 2014. 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 1. 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 operates four reporting units: the Americas; Europe, which includes Africa; Asia Pacific, which includes the Middle East, and Culture Shaping.
	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 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. Based on the result of the first step of this goodwill impairment analysis, the fair values of the Americas, Asia Pacific, and Cultural Shaping reporting units exceeded their carrying values by 134%, 13%, and 36%, respectively. The fair value of the Asia Pacific 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, specifically in relation to the Asia Pacific reporting unit. 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,			December 31,
			2014			2013
	Executive Search and Leadership Consulting
	Americas		$	1,044		$	1,340
	Asia Pacific			383			591
	Total Executive Search and Leadership Consulting			1,427			1,931
	Culture Shaping			19,512			24,706
	Total Other intangible assets, net		$	20,939		$	26,637
	The carrying amount of amortizable intangible assets and the related accumulated amortization were as follows:
						December 31, 2014									December 31, 2013
			Weighted			Gross			Accumulated			Net			Gross		Accumulated			Net
			Average			Carrying			Amortization			Carrying			Carrying		Amortization			Carrying
			Life (in			Amount						Amount			Amount					Amount
			years)
	Client relationships			8.7		$	23,316		$	(14,999	)	$	8,317		$	23,541	$	(11,834	)	$	11,707
	Trade name			15			9,334			(2,358	)		6,976			9,430		(1,223	)		8,207
	Software			7			7,200			(2,057	)		5,143			7,200		(1,029	)		6,171
	Non-compete			5			593			(90	)		503			603		(51	)		552
	Total intangible assets			10.3		$	40,443		$	(19,504	)	$	20,939		$	40,774	$	(14,137	)	$	26,637
	Intangible asset amortization expense for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 was $5.5 million, $5.8 million and $0.6 million, respectively. The estimated intangible amortization expense is $4.7 million for fiscal year 2015, $4.4 million for fiscal year 2016, $3.6 million for fiscal year 2017, $2.8 million for fiscal year 2018 and $2.2 million for fiscal year 2019. These amounts are based on intangible assets recorded as of December 31, 2014, and actual amortization expense could differ from these estimates as a result of future acquisitions and other factors.

Derivative_Financial_Instrumen

Derivative Financial Instruments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Derivative Financial Instruments	10	Derivative Financial Instruments
	The Company uses derivative instruments to manage exposures to interest rate risk. The Company’s primary objective in holding derivatives is to reduce the volatility of earnings and cash flows associated with changes in interest rates. The Company’s derivatives expose it to credit risk to the extent that the counterparties may be unable to meet the terms of the agreement. The Company does, however, seek to mitigate such risks by limiting its counterparties to financial institutions that meet certain criteria. In addition, the potential risk of loss with any one counterparty resulting from this type of credit risk is monitored. Management does not expect material losses as a result of defaults by counterparties.
	The Company pays short-term variable interest rates, plus a spread which is dependent on the Company’s leverage ratio, calculated as defined within the Amendment and Restatement Agreement (“Restated Credit Agreement”). The term loan exposes the Company to the variability in interest payments and therefore fluctuations in interest expense and cash flows due to changes in interest rates.
	On February 28, 2013, the Company entered into an interest rate swap to hedge the variable interest rate exposure from the underlying term facility (See Note 12, Line of Credit and Term Loan). The interest rate swap was entered into to manage fluctuations in cash flows resulting from interest rate risk attributable to changes in the short-term variable interest rate. This interest rate swap involves the exchange of variable-rate interest payments for fixed-rate interest payments based on the contractual underlying notional amount. Gains or losses on the interest rate swap that are linked to the term loan being hedged are expected to perfectly offset the losses or gains on the underlying term loan from the short-term variable interest rate. The effective portion of changes in the fair value of a derivative that is designated and that qualifies as a cash flow hedge is recorded in Accumulated other comprehensive income and is subsequently reclassified into earnings in the period when the hedged forecasted transaction affects earnings. If a derivative is deemed to be ineffective, the ineffective portion of the change in fair value of the derivative is recognized directly in earnings. During the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, the Company’s interest rate swap entered into for purposes of managing fluctuations in cash flows resulting from the variable rate term loan was deemed effective. The Company expects it will be effective for the next twelve months. The notional amount of the interest rate swap was $29.5 million and $35.5 million as of December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively.
			December 31, 2014					December 31, 2013
	Interest Rate Swap Contract		Fair		Loss(2)			Fair		Gain(2)
			Value (1)					Value (1)
	Derivative designated as cash flow hedge		$	125	($	55	)	$	180	$	180
	-1	Included in the Consolidated Balance Sheets within Other current assets.
	-2	Included in Accumulated other comprehensive income, net is $18 thousand of benefit and $65 thousand of tax as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

NonCurrent_Liabilities

Non-Current Liabilities	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Other Liabilities Disclosure [Abstract]
Non-Current Liabilities	11	Non-Current Liabilities
	The components of other non-current liabilities are as follows:
			December 31,		December 31,
			2014		2013
	Accrued salaries and employee benefits		$	31,605	$	30,879
	Premise related costs			15,058		16,562
	Accrued earnout payments			7,567		11,628
	Other			517		2,260
	Total other non-current liabilities		$	54,747	$	61,329

Line_of_Credit_and_Term_Loan

Line of Credit and Term Loan	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Line of Credit and Term Loan	12	Line of Credit and Term Loan
	On June 22, 2011, the Company and certain foreign subsidiary borrowers of the Company entered into a Credit Agreement (the “Agreement”) with its lenders. The Agreement provides the terms under which the lenders will make available to the Company a committed unsecured revolving credit facility in an aggregate amount of up to $75 million (the “Revolving Facility”). The Agreement includes an expansion feature that allows the Company to seek to increase the aggregate commitment under the Revolving Facility by up to $25 million provided that the Company is in compliance with certain conditions set forth in the Agreement. The Agreement also provides for the issuance of letters of credit. The Revolving Facility matures on June 22, 2016. Under the Agreement, the Borrowers may borrow U.S. dollars, euros, British pound sterling, Australian dollars or other major traded currencies as agreed by the lenders. Borrowings under the Agreement bear interest, at the Company’s election, at the existing Alternate Base Rate (as defined in the Agreement) or Adjusted LIBOR Rate (as defined in the Agreement) plus a spread as determined by the Company’s leverage ratio.
	On January 31, 2013, the Company and certain foreign subsidiary borrowers of the Company entered into a Restated Credit Agreement, which amended the Agreement to add a committed term loan facility in an aggregate amount of up to $40 million (the “Term Facility”). There was no other material term change in the Agreement.
	On January 31, 2013 the Company borrowed $40 million under the Term Facility. The Term Facility is being repaid over a five-year period pursuant to which the Company will make quarterly payments of $1.5 million through 2016 and quarterly payments of $2.0 million during 2017. The remaining outstanding balance of the Term Facility will be paid on January 31, 2018. The interest rate on the debt is Adjusted LIBOR plus a spread which is dependent on the Company’s leverage ratio. The Company entered into an interest rate swap to address the risk related to the fluctuation in Adjusted LIBOR (See Note 10, Derivative Financial Instruments). As of December 31, 2014 the Company’s interest rate, including the impact of the interest rate swap, was 2.54%.
	As of December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013 there was $29.5 million and $35.5 million, respectively, outstanding under the Term Facility. There were no borrowings made under the Revolving Facility during the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013. The Company was in compliance with the financial and other covenants under the Restated Credit Agreement and no event of default existed as of December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively.

Employee_Benefit_Plans

Employee Benefit Plans	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Postemployment Benefits [Abstract]
Employee Benefit Plans	13	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 $5,000, or 5.0%, of eligible compensation for the year ended December 31, 2014. The Company matched employee contributions up to the greater of $5,000, or 4.5%, of eligible compensation for the year ended December 31, 2013, and up to the greater of $4,750, or 4.0%, of eligible compensation for the year ended December 31, 2012. Employees are eligible for the Company match after satisfying a one year service requirement provided that they are working on the last day of the Plan year in which the match is 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, 2014, 2013 and 2012. The expense that the Company incurred for matching employee contributions for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 was $2.8 million, $2.4 million and $2.5 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, 2014, 2013 and 2012 and in the Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2014 and 2013.
	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 2014 and 2013, all deferrals in the U.S. Plan were funded. The compensation deferred in the U.S. Plan was $11.4 million and $11.0 million, at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. 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 as of December 31, 2014 and 2013.
	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, 2014 and 2013, the total amounts deferred under the plan were $2.3 million and $2.2 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, 2014 and 2013.
	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 7, Fair Value Measurements).

Pension_Plan_and_Life_Insuranc

Pension Plan and Life Insurance Contract	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Pension Plan and Life Insurance Contract	14	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.
			2014			2013
	Benefit obligation at January 1,		$	26,398		$	26,486
	Service cost			—			173
	Interest cost			799			820
	Actuarial loss (gain)			4,794			(928	)
	Benefits paid			(1,502	)		(1,218	)
	Cumulative translation adjustment			(3,504	)		1,065
	Benefit obligation at December 31,		$	26,985		$	26,398
	The benefit obligation amounts recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets are as follows:
			December 31,
			2014			2013
	Current liabilities		$	1,457		$	1,627
	Noncurrent liabilities			25,528			24,771
	Total		$	26,985		$	26,398
	The accumulated benefit obligation amounts at December 31, 2014 and 2013 are $27.0 million and $26.4 million, respectively.
	The components of and assumptions used to determine the net periodic benefit cost are as follows:
			December 31,
			2014			2013			2012
	Net period benefit cost:
	Service cost		$	—		$	173		$	147
	Interest cost			799			820			1,042
	Amortization of net gain			—			—			(47	)
	Net periodic benefit cost		$	799		$	993		$	1,142
	Weighted average assumptions
	Discount rate (1)			3.25	%		3.15	%		4.65	%
	Rate of compensation increase			1.75	%		1.75	%		1.75	%
	Assumptions to determine the Company’s benefit obligation are as follows:
			December 31,
			2014			2013			2012
	Discount rate (1)			1.82	%		3.25	%		3.15	%
	Rate of compensation increase			1.75	%		1.75	%		1.75	%
	Measurement Date			12/31/14			12/31/13			12/31/12
	-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, 2014 and 2013 that had not yet been recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost were $4.0 million and $0.4 million, respectively. As of December 31, 2014, $0.1 million of the accumulated other comprehensive income is expected to be recognized as a component of net periodic benefit cost in 2015.
	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 7, Fair Value Measurements). The fair value at December 31, 2014 and 2013 was $20.9 million and $24.3 million, respectively. The expected contribution to be paid into the plan in 2015 is $1.5 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, 2014 and 2013, 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,
	2015		$	1,457
	2016			1,458
	2017			1,457
	2018			1,453
	2019			1,447
	2020 through 2024			7,028

StockBased_Compensation

Stock-Based Compensation	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Stock-Based Compensation	15	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, 2014, there were 103,014 awards outstanding under the Prior Program, consisting of 8,877 stock options, 77,770 restricted stock units, and 16,367 performance 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 cancelled 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, 2014, 772,665 awards have been issued under the 2012 Program and 1,573,375 shares remain available for future awards, which includes 346,040 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,
			2014			2013		2012
	Salaries and employee benefits		$	3,128		$	3,447	$	3,749
	General and administrative expenses			451			300		450
	Income tax benefit related to stock-based compensation included in net income			1,444			1,468		1,705
	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, 2014, 2013 and 2012:
			Number of			Weighted-
			Restricted			Average
			Stock Units			Grant-date
						Fair Value
	Outstanding on December 31, 2011			489,720		$	23.99
	Granted			123,951			19.84
	Vested and converted to common stock			(211,616	)		22.35
	Forfeited			(40,277	)		24.85
	Outstanding on December 31, 2012			361,778			23.43
	Granted			174,508			14.01
	Vested and converted to common stock			(167,955	)		24.7
	Forfeited			(97,876	)		17.69
	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
	As of December 31, 2014, there was $3.3 million of pre-tax unrecognized compensation expense related to unvested restricted stock units, which is expected to be recognized over a weighted average of 2.8 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 3 year vesting period. The performance stock units are expensed on a straight-line basis over the 3 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.
	Performance share unit activity as of December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012:
			Number of			Weighted
			Restricted			Average
			Stock Units			Grant-date
						Fair Value
	Outstanding on December 31, 2011			140,230		$	23.67
	Granted			50,315			20.62
	Vested and converted to common stock			(58,487	)		18.07
	Forfeited			(52,058	)		26.89
	Outstanding on December 31, 2012			80,000			23.75
	Granted			63,895			13.89
	Vested and converted to common stock			—			—
	Forfeited			(82,574	)		19.07
	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
	As of December 31, 2014, there was $1.9 million of pre-tax unrecognized compensation expense related to unvested performance stock units, which is expected to be recognized over a weighted average of 1.7 years.

Changes_in_Accumulated_Other_C

Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Equity [Abstract]
Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	16	Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
	The changes in Accumulated other comprehensive income (“AOCI”) by component for the year ended December 31, 2014 is summarized below:
			Cash			Available-			Foreign			Pension			AOCI
			Flow			for-			Currency
			Hedge			Sale			Translation
						Securities
	Balance at December 31, 2013		$	115		$	2,921		$	11,607		$	326		$	14,969
	Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassification, net of tax			(170	)		596			(1,235	)		(2,736	)		(3,545	)
	Amount reclassified from AOCI (1)			133			(334	)		—			—			(201	)
	Net current period other comprehensive income (loss)			(37	)		262			(1,235	)		(2,736	)		(3,746	)
	Balance at December 31, 2014		$	78		$	3,183		$	10,372		$	(2,410	)	$	11,223
	-1	Cash Flow Hedge and Available-for-Sale Securities reclassifications from AOCI are included in Interest, net and Other, net, respectively, in the Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income.

Income_Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes	17	Income Taxes
	The sources of income before income taxes are as follows:
			December 31,
			2014			2013			2012
	United States		$	25,956		$	29,334		$	32,030
	Foreign			(1,769	)		(15,946	)		(11,768	)
	Income before income taxes		$	24,187		$	13,388		$	20,262
	The provision for (benefit from) income taxes are as follows:
			December 31,
			2014			2013			2012
	Current
	Federal		$	10,997		$	6,954		$	4,287
	State and local			3,141			2,575			2,392
	Foreign			2,537			1,430			5,278
	Current provision for income taxes			16,675			10,959			11,957
	Deferred
	Federal		($	2,845	)	$	1,026		$	7,300
	State and local			(242	)		(16	)		206
	Foreign			3,802			(4,928	)		(5,441	)
	Deferred provision (benefit) for income taxes			715			(3,918	)		2,065
	Total provision for income taxes		$	17,390		$	7,041		$	14,022
	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,
			2014			2013			2012
	Income tax provision at the statutory U.S. federal rate		$	8,466		$	4,686		$	7,092
	State income tax provision, net of federal tax benefit			1,423			1,618			1,930
	Nondeductible expenses			1,747			(109	)		1,600
	Foreign tax rates differential (includes changes in foreign valuation allowance)			1,396			2,816			4,032
	Establishment (release) of valuation allowance			4,708			(1,615	)		(3,119	)
	U.S. tax on foreign dividends			722			1,838			1,215
	Current/deferred true-up			(1,499	)		(1,786	)		2,040
	Other, net			427			(407	)		(768	)
	Total provision for income taxes		$	17,390		$	7,041		$	14,022
	The deferred tax assets and liabilities are attributable to the following components:
			December 31,
			2014			2013
	Deferred tax assets attributable to:
	Foreign net operating loss carryforwards		$	29,030		$	32,018
	Accrued compensation & employee benefits			19,178			13,741
	Deferred compensation			15,356			15,003
	Foreign tax credit carryforwards			15,213			14,504
	Accrued rent			4,180			4,569
	Other accrued expenses			2,260			4,967
	Deferred tax assets, before valuation allowance			85,217			84,802
	Valuation allowance			(28,738	)		(29,423	)
	Deferred tax assets, after valuation allowance			56,479			55,379
	Deferred tax liabilities attributable to:
	Goodwill			14,973			13,616
	Taxes provided on unremitted earnings			3,431			2,836
	Depreciation on property and equipment			2,563			3,166
	Other			87			513
	Deferred tax liabilities			21,054			20,131
	Net deferred tax assets		$	35,425		$	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 $29.4 million at December 31, 2013 to $28.7 million at December 31, 2014. The valuation allowance at December 31, 2014 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, 2014, the Company had a net operating loss carryforward of $105.5 million related to its foreign filings and $0.5 million related to its U.S. state tax filings. Of the $105.5 million net operating loss carryforward, $82.8 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 $15.2 million, expiring in 2017 through 2024.
	As of December 31, 2014, the Company had unremitted earnings held in its foreign subsidiaries of approximately $67.7 million, of which the company has provided $3.4 million of tax on $15.2 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, 2014, the Company had $0.4 million of unrecognized tax benefits. As of December 31, 2014 the Company had $0.1 million of unrecognized tax benefits of which, if recognized, it would be fully offset by a federal tax benefit, 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,
			2014			2013			2012
	Gross unrecognized tax benefits at January 1,		$	362		$	534		$	432
	Gross increases for tax positions of prior years			151			—			689
	Gross decreases for tax positions of prior years			(191	)		—			—
Settlements			(143	)		(7	)		(494	)
Lapse of statute of limitations			(36	)		(165	)		(93	)
Gross unrecognized tax benefits at December 31,		$	143		$	362		$	534
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 2009 through 2013 are subject to examination by the state taxing authorities. The year 2013 is subject to examination by the federal taxing authority. There are certain foreign jurisdictions that are subject to examination for years prior to 2009.
The Company is currently under audit by some foreign jurisdictions. It is likely that the examination phase of several of these audits will conclude in the next 12 months. No significant increases or decreases in unrecognized tax benefits are expected to occur by December 31, 2015.
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, 2014.

Segment_Information

Segment Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Segment Information	18	Segment Information
	The Company operates its executive search and leadership consulting services in the Americas; Europe (which includes Africa); and Asia Pacific (which includes the Middle East) and operates its culture shaping business as a separate segment.
	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.
	During 2014, consistent with the Company’s practice to periodically review its reporting structure and segments, the Company evaluated its allocation of corporate and support costs to each of its regions. In conjunction with that review, to better align the Company’s cost and reporting structure, additional costs were allocated to the regions reflecting management’s current view of the costs necessary to support the regional operations. The prior period results have been recast to reflect these changes and present comparative year-over-year results.
	The revenue, operating income, depreciation and amortization, and capital expenditures, by segment, are as follows:
			December 31,
			2014			2013			2012
	Revenue:
	Executive Search and Leadership Consulting
	Americas		$	260,830		$	256,706		$	254,395
	Europe			108,979			90,081			99,004
	Asia Pacific			89,732			90,418			90,378
	Total Executive Search and Leadership Consulting			459,541			437,205			443,777
	Culture Shaping			34,751			24,790			—
	Revenue before reimbursements (net revenue)			494,292			461,995			443,777
	Reimbursements			18,947			18,998			21,304
	Total		$	513,239		$	480,993		$	465,081
	Operating income (loss):
	Executive Search and Leadership Consulting
	Americas		$	57,682		$	60,171		$	53,172
	Europe			4,806			(6,513	)		3,228
	Asia Pacific			4,886			3,678			2,082
	Total Executive Search and Leadership Consulting			67,374			57,336			58,482
	Culture Shaping			4,621			(4,215	)		—
	Total segments			71,995			53,121			58,482
	Global Operations Support			(45,342	)		(37,556	)		(38,033	)
	Operating income before restructuring charges			26,653			15,565			20,449
	Restructuring charges			—			—			(810	)
	Total		$	26,653		$	15,565		$	19,639
	Depreciation and amortization:
	Executive Search and Leadership Consulting
	Americas		$	2,942		$	3,672		$	4,192
	Europe			3,279			2,853			2,751
	Asia Pacific			1,856			2,281			2,555
	Total Executive Search and Leadership Consulting			8,077			8,806			9,498
	Culture Shaping			5,325			5,738			—
	Total segments			13,402			14,544			9,498
	Global Operations Support			1,910			1,731			1,303
	Total		$	15,312		$	16,275		$	10,801
	Capital expenditures:
	Executive Search and Leadership Consulting
	Americas		$	2,858		$	1,411		$	2,770
	Europe			478			822			1,441
	Asia Pacific			512			1,053			2,550
	Total Executive Search and Leadership Consulting			3,848			3,286			6,761
	Culture Shaping			53			13			—
	Total segments			3,901			3,286			6,761
	Global Operations Support			1,934			445			743
	Total		$	5,835		$	3,731		$	7,504
	Identifiable assets, and goodwill and other intangible assets, net, by segment, are as follows:
			December 31,
			2014			2013
	Current assets:
	Executive Search and Leadership Consulting
	Americas		$	196,030		$	163,185
	Europe			49,185			50,000
	Asia Pacific			52,566			56,916
	Total Executive Search and Leadership Consulting			297,781			270,101
	Culture Shaping			32,157			20,232
	Total segments			329,938			290,333
	Global Operations Support			391			442
	Total allocated current assets			330,329			290,775
	Unallocated non-current assets:			95,257			112,538
	Goodwill and other intangible assets, net:
Executive Search and Leadership Consulting
Americas			83,314			83,980
Asia Pacific			10,638			11,445
Total Executive Search and Leadership Consulting			93,952			95,425
Culture Shaping			49,163			54,486
Total goodwill and other intangible assets, net			143,115			149,911
Total assets:		$	568,701		$	553,224

Guarantees

Guarantees	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Guarantees [Abstract]
Guarantees	19	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 $2.0 million as of December 31, 2014. 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, 2014
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments and Contingencies	20	Commitments and Contingencies
	Operating Leases
	The Company leases office space in 49 cities in 26 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, operating expenses and real estate taxes, and the costs of equipment leases for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 was $24.1 million, $27.1 million, and $28.1 million, respectively. The Company broadened the definition of rent expense in 2013 to also include maintenance costs. Under the broader definition, total expense was $32.3 million, $32.4 million, and $32.1 million in the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
	Minimum future office space and equipment lease payments due in each of the next five years and thereafter are as follows:
			Office		Equipment		Total
			Leases		Leases
	Year ending December 31,
	2015			26,789		704		27,493
	2016			24,494		444		24,938
	2017			18,684		161		18,845
	2018			17,239		63		17,302
	2019			15,072		24		15,096
	Thereafter			62,576		3		62,579
	Total			164,854		1,399		166,253
	The aggregate minimum future payments on office leases are $164.9 million. The Company has contractual arrangements to receive aggregate sublease income of $1.7 million related to certain leases that expire at various dates through 2016. 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 $1.9 million and $1.7 million of asset retirement obligations as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, 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 (equivalent to $6.1 million at December 31, 2014). 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_Account1

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
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, 2014, the Company had no significant concentrations of risk.
Accounts Receivable	Accounts Receivable
	The Company’s accounts receivable primarily 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 and 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	3–8 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”) and warrants for equity securities in client companies classified as derivative instruments, cost method investments or available-for-sale investments.
	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 income (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 and employee non-compete agreements. 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’s reporting units include Americas, Europe, Asia Pacific 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.
	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, if the actual compensation of a placed candidate exceeds the estimated compensation, the Company often will be 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 license.
	Net revenue from certain leadership consulting and non-standard executive search engagements is recognized 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 and minimum guaranteed bonuses (often incurred in connection with the hiring of new consultants), restricted stock unit amortization, payroll taxes, profit sharing and retirement benefits, and employee insurance benefits.
	Salaries and employee benefits are recognized on an accrual basis. Certain signing 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 that is deferred varies between 10% and 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 and Other non-current liabilities in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
Stock-Based Compensation	Stock-Based Compensation
	The Company accounts for stock-based compensation, primarily consisting of restricted stock units, based on the fair value of the award at grant date, which is typically the closing stock-price, and recognizes compensation expense over the requisite service period.
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.
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.
Recently Issued Financial Accounting Standards	Recently Issued Financial Accounting Standards
	In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“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 a customer in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the Company expects to be entitled in exchange for these goods or services. The standard is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim periods, using either of the following transition methods: (i) a full retrospective approach reflecting the application of the standard in each prior reporting period with the option to elect certain practical expedients or (ii) a retrospective approach with the cumulative effect upon initial adoption recognized at the date of adoption. The Company is currently evaluating the effect that this pronouncement will have on its financial statements and related disclosures. The effect is not currently known or reasonably estimable at this time.

Summary_of_Significant_Account2

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Summary of Estimated Useful Life of Property and Equipment	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	3–8 years

Allowance_for_Doubtful_Account1

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Receivables [Abstract]
Summary of Allowance for Doubtful Accounts	The activity of the allowance for doubtful accounts for the years ended:
		December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
	Balance at January 1,	$	4,709		$	4,798		$	3,805
	Provision charged to income		241			851			2,175
	Write-offs		(772	)		(870	)		(1,281	)
	Currency		(236	)		(70	)		99
	Balance at December 31,	$	3,942		$	4,709		$	4,798

Property_and_Equipment_net_Tab

Property and Equipment, net (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
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,
		2014			2013
	Leasehold improvements	$	43,930		$	44,242
	Office furniture, fixtures and equipment		18,693			24,301
	Computer equipment and software		30,751			38,039
	Property and equipment, gross		93,374			106,582
	Accumulated depreciation		(62,957	)		(71,621	)
	Property and equipment, net	$	30,417		$	34,961

Restricted_Cash_Tables

Restricted Cash (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Abstract]
Components of Restricted Cash	The components of the Company’s restricted cash are as follows:
		December 31,
		2014		2013
	Current restricted cash
	Retention escrow	$	6,501	$	—
	Bank guarantees		—		130
	Total current restricted cash	$	6,501	$	130
	Non-current restricted cash
	Retention escrow	$	—	$	6,501
	Lease guarantees		1,316		1,377
	Business licenses		95		—
	Total non-current restricted cash	$	1,411	$	7,878

Investments_Tables

Investments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Investments Schedule [Abstract]
Components of Company's Investments	The components of the Company’s investments are as follows:
		December 31,
		2014		2013
	U.S. non-qualified deferred compensation plan	$	13,709	$	13,232
	Warrants and equity securities		280		616
	Total	$	13,989	$	13,848

Fair_Value_Measurements_Tables

Fair Value Measurements (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Levels of Inputs Used to Measure Fair Value of Assets
		Quoted Prices			Significant			Significant			Total
		in Active			Other			Unobservable
		Markets for			Observable			Inputs
		Identical Assets			Inputs			(Level 3)
		(Level 1)			(Level 2)
	At December 31, 2014
	U.S. non-qualified deferred compensation plan	$	13,709		$	—		$	—		$	13,709
	Assets designated for retirement and pension plans		—			20,880			—			20,880
	Derivatives designated as cash flow hedge		—			125			—			125
	Warrants and equity securities		—			—			280			280
	Acquisition earnout accruals		—			—			(12,944	)		(12,944	)
		$	13,709		$	21,005		$	(12,664	)	$	22,050
		Quoted Prices			Significant			Significant			Total
		in Active			Other			Unobservable
		Markets for			Observable			Inputs
		Identical Assets			Inputs			(Level 3)
		(Level 1)			(Level 2)
	At December 31, 2013
	U.S. non-qualified deferred compensation plan	$	13,232		$	—		$	—		$	13,232
	Assets designated for retirement and pension plans		—			24,312			—			24,312
	Derivatives designated as cash flow hedge		—			180			—			180
	Warrants and equity securities		—			—			616			616
	Acquisition earnout accruals		—			—			(14,053	)		(14,053	)
		$	13,232		$	24,492		$	(13,437	)	$	24,287
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, 2014.
		Warrants			Acquisition			Total
		and Equity			Earnout
		Securities			Accruals
	Balance at December 31, 2013	$	616		$	(14,053	)	$	(13,437	)
	Realized / unrealized gains		(336	)		—			(336	)
	Earnout accretion		—			(1,854	)		(1,854	)
	Earnout payments		—			3,390			3,390
	Foreign currency translation		—			(427	)		(427	)
	Balance at December 31, 2014	$	280		$	(12,944	)	$	(12,664	)

Goodwill_and_Other_Intangible_1

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
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, 2014, 2013 and 2012 were as follows:
		Executive			Executive			Culture			Total
		Search and			Search and			Shaping
		Leadership			Leadership
		Consulting-			Consulting-
		Americas			Asia Pacific
	Balance at December 31, 2011	$	82,814		$	7,882		$	—		$	90,696
	Senn-Delaney acquisition		—			—			29,707			29,707
	Exchange rate fluctuations		127			410			—			537
	Balance at December 31, 2012		82,941			8,292			29,707			120,940
	Scambler MacGregor acquisition		—			2,729			—			2,729
	Exchange rate fluctuations		(301	)		(167	)		73			(395	)
	Balance at December 31, 2013		82,640			10,854			29,780			123,274
	Exchange rate fluctuations		(370	)		(599	)		(129	)		(1,098	)
	Balance at December 31, 2014	$	82,270		$	10,255		$	29,651		$	122,176
Carrying Amount of Amortizable Intangible Assets and Related Accumulated Amortization	The Company’s other intangible assets, net by segment, are as follows:
		December 31,			December 31,
		2014			2013
	Executive Search and Leadership Consulting
	Americas	$	1,044		$	1,340
	Asia Pacific		383			591
	Total Executive Search and Leadership Consulting		1,427			1,931
	Culture Shaping		19,512			24,706
	Total Other intangible assets, net	$	20,939		$	26,637
	The carrying amount of amortizable intangible assets and the related accumulated amortization were as follows:
					December 31, 2014									December 31, 2013
		Weighted			Gross			Accumulated			Net			Gross		Accumulated			Net
		Average			Carrying			Amortization			Carrying			Carrying		Amortization			Carrying
		Life (in			Amount						Amount			Amount					Amount
		years)
	Client relationships		8.7		$	23,316		$	(14,999	)	$	8,317		$	23,541	$	(11,834	)	$	11,707
	Trade name		15			9,334			(2,358	)		6,976			9,430		(1,223	)		8,207
	Software		7			7,200			(2,057	)		5,143			7,200		(1,029	)		6,171
	Non-compete		5			593			(90	)		503			603		(51	)		552
	Total intangible assets		10.3		$	40,443		$	(19,504	)	$	20,939		$	40,774	$	(14,137	)	$	26,637

Derivative_Financial_Instrumen1

Derivative Financial Instruments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Summary of Interest Rate Swap Contract
			December 31, 2014					December 31, 2013
	Interest Rate Swap Contract		Fair		Loss(2)			Fair		Gain(2)
			Value (1)					Value (1)
	Derivative designated as cash flow hedge		$	125	($	55	)	$	180	$	180
	-1	Included in the Consolidated Balance Sheets within Other current assets.
	-2	Included in Accumulated other comprehensive income, net is $18 thousand of benefit and $65 thousand of tax as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

NonCurrent_Liabilities_Tables

Non-Current Liabilities (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Other Liabilities Disclosure [Abstract]
Components of Other Non-Current Liabilities	The components of other non-current liabilities are as follows:
		December 31,		December 31,
		2014		2013
	Accrued salaries and employee benefits	$	31,605	$	30,879
	Premise related costs		15,058		16,562
	Accrued earnout payments		7,567		11,628
	Other		517		2,260
	Total other non-current liabilities	$	54,747	$	61,329

Pension_Plan_and_Life_Insuranc1

Pension Plan and Life Insurance Contract (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Reconcile Benefit Obligation for Pension Plan
			2014			2013
	Benefit obligation at January 1,		$	26,398		$	26,486
	Service cost			—			173
	Interest cost			799			820
	Actuarial loss (gain)			4,794			(928	)
	Benefits paid			(1,502	)		(1,218	)
	Cumulative translation adjustment			(3,504	)		1,065
	Benefit obligation at December 31,		$	26,985		$	26,398
Benefit Obligation Amounts Recognized in Consolidated Balance Sheets	The benefit obligation amounts recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets are as follows:
			December 31,
			2014			2013
	Current liabilities		$	1,457		$	1,627
	Noncurrent liabilities			25,528			24,771
	Total		$	26,985		$	26,398
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,
			2014			2013			2012
	Net period benefit cost:
	Service cost		$	—		$	173		$	147
	Interest cost			799			820			1,042
	Amortization of net gain			—			—			(47	)
	Net periodic benefit cost		$	799		$	993		$	1,142
	Weighted average assumptions
	Discount rate (1)			3.25	%		3.15	%		4.65	%
	Rate of compensation increase			1.75	%		1.75	%		1.75	%
Assumptions to Determine Company's Benefit Obligation	Assumptions to determine the Company’s benefit obligation are as follows:
			December 31,
			2014			2013			2012
	Discount rate (1)			1.82	%		3.25	%		3.15	%
	Rate of compensation increase			1.75	%		1.75	%		1.75	%
	Measurement Date			12/31/14			12/31/13			12/31/12
	-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,
	2015		$	1,457
	2016			1,458
	2017			1,457
	2018			1,453
	2019			1,447
	2020 through 2024			7,028

StockBased_Compensation_Tables

Stock-Based Compensation (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
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,
		2014			2013		2012
	Salaries and employee benefits	$	3,128		$	3,447	$	3,749
	General and administrative expenses		451			300		450
	Income tax benefit related to stock-based compensation included in net income		1,444			1,468		1,705
Restricted Stock Unit Activity	Restricted stock unit activity as of December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012:
		Number of			Weighted-
		Restricted			Average
		Stock Units			Grant-date
					Fair Value
	Outstanding on December 31, 2011		489,720		$	23.99
	Granted		123,951			19.84
	Vested and converted to common stock		(211,616	)		22.35
	Forfeited		(40,277	)		24.85
	Outstanding on December 31, 2012		361,778			23.43
	Granted		174,508			14.01
	Vested and converted to common stock		(167,955	)		24.7
	Forfeited		(97,876	)		17.69
	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
Performance Stock Unit Activity	Performance share unit activity as of December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012:
		Number of			Weighted
		Restricted			Average
		Stock Units			Grant-date
					Fair Value
	Outstanding on December 31, 2011		140,230		$	23.67
	Granted		50,315			20.62
	Vested and converted to common stock		(58,487	)		18.07
	Forfeited		(52,058	)		26.89
	Outstanding on December 31, 2012		80,000			23.75
	Granted		63,895			13.89
	Vested and converted to common stock		—			—
	Forfeited		(82,574	)		19.07
	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

Changes_in_Accumulated_Other_C1

Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
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, 2014 is summarized below:
			Cash			Available-			Foreign			Pension			AOCI
			Flow			for-			Currency
			Hedge			Sale			Translation
						Securities
	Balance at December 31, 2013		$	115		$	2,921		$	11,607		$	326		$	14,969
	Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassification, net of tax			(170	)		596			(1,235	)		(2,736	)		(3,545	)
	Amount reclassified from AOCI (1)			133			(334	)		—			—			(201	)
	Net current period other comprehensive income (loss)			(37	)		262			(1,235	)		(2,736	)		(3,746	)
	Balance at December 31, 2014		$	78		$	3,183		$	10,372		$	(2,410	)	$	11,223
	-1	Cash Flow Hedge and Available-for-Sale Securities reclassifications from AOCI are included in Interest, net and Other, net, respectively, in the Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income.

Income_Taxes_Tables

Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Sources of Income (Loss) before Income Taxes	The sources of income before income taxes are as follows:
		December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
	United States	$	25,956		$	29,334		$	32,030
	Foreign		(1,769	)		(15,946	)		(11,768	)
	Income before income taxes	$	24,187		$	13,388		$	20,262
Provision for (Benefit from) Income Taxes	The provision for (benefit from) income taxes are as follows:
		December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
	Current
	Federal	$	10,997		$	6,954		$	4,287
	State and local		3,141			2,575			2,392
	Foreign		2,537			1,430			5,278
	Current provision for income taxes		16,675			10,959			11,957
	Deferred
	Federal	($	2,845	)	$	1,026		$	7,300
	State and local		(242	)		(16	)		206
	Foreign		3,802			(4,928	)		(5,441	)
	Deferred provision (benefit) for income taxes		715			(3,918	)		2,065
	Total provision for income taxes	$	17,390		$	7,041		$	14,022
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,
		2014			2013			2012
	Income tax provision at the statutory U.S. federal rate	$	8,466		$	4,686		$	7,092
	State income tax provision, net of federal tax benefit		1,423			1,618			1,930
	Nondeductible expenses		1,747			(109	)		1,600
	Foreign tax rates differential (includes changes in foreign valuation allowance)		1,396			2,816			4,032
	Establishment (release) of valuation allowance		4,708			(1,615	)		(3,119	)
	U.S. tax on foreign dividends		722			1,838			1,215
	Current/deferred true-up		(1,499	)		(1,786	)		2,040
	Other, net		427			(407	)		(768	)
	Total provision for income taxes	$	17,390		$	7,041		$	14,022
Summary of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities	The deferred tax assets and liabilities are attributable to the following components:
		December 31,
		2014			2013
	Deferred tax assets attributable to:
	Foreign net operating loss carryforwards	$	29,030		$	32,018
	Accrued compensation & employee benefits		19,178			13,741
	Deferred compensation		15,356			15,003
	Foreign tax credit carryforwards		15,213			14,504
	Accrued rent		4,180			4,569
	Other accrued expenses		2,260			4,967
	Deferred tax assets, before valuation allowance		85,217			84,802
	Valuation allowance		(28,738	)		(29,423	)
	Deferred tax assets, after valuation allowance		56,479			55,379
	Deferred tax liabilities attributable to:
	Goodwill		14,973			13,616
	Taxes provided on unremitted earnings		3,431			2,836
	Depreciation on property and equipment		2,563			3,166
	Other		87			513
	Deferred tax liabilities		21,054			20,131
	Net deferred tax assets	$	35,425		$	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,
		2014			2013			2012
	Gross unrecognized tax benefits at January 1,	$	362		$	534		$	432
	Gross increases for tax positions of prior years		151			—			689
	Gross decreases for tax positions of prior years		(191	)		—			—
	Settlements		(143	)		(7	)		(494	)
	Lapse of statute of limitations		(36	)		(165	)		(93	)
	Gross unrecognized tax benefits at December 31,	$	143		$	362		$	534

Segment_Information_Tables

Segment Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Revenue, Operating Income, Depreciation and Amortization, and Capital Expenditures, by Segment	The revenue, operating income, depreciation and amortization, and capital expenditures, by segment, are as follows:
		December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
	Revenue:
	Executive Search and Leadership Consulting
	Americas	$	260,830		$	256,706		$	254,395
	Europe		108,979			90,081			99,004
	Asia Pacific		89,732			90,418			90,378
	Total Executive Search and Leadership Consulting		459,541			437,205			443,777
	Culture Shaping		34,751			24,790			—
	Revenue before reimbursements (net revenue)		494,292			461,995			443,777
	Reimbursements		18,947			18,998			21,304
	Total	$	513,239		$	480,993		$	465,081
	Operating income (loss):
	Executive Search and Leadership Consulting
	Americas	$	57,682		$	60,171		$	53,172
	Europe		4,806			(6,513	)		3,228
	Asia Pacific		4,886			3,678			2,082
	Total Executive Search and Leadership Consulting		67,374			57,336			58,482
	Culture Shaping		4,621			(4,215	)		—
	Total segments		71,995			53,121			58,482
	Global Operations Support		(45,342	)		(37,556	)		(38,033	)
	Operating income before restructuring charges		26,653			15,565			20,449
	Restructuring charges		—			—			(810	)
	Total	$	26,653		$	15,565		$	19,639
	Depreciation and amortization:
	Executive Search and Leadership Consulting
	Americas	$	2,942		$	3,672		$	4,192
	Europe		3,279			2,853			2,751
	Asia Pacific		1,856			2,281			2,555
	Total Executive Search and Leadership Consulting		8,077			8,806			9,498
	Culture Shaping		5,325			5,738			—
	Total segments		13,402			14,544			9,498
	Global Operations Support		1,910			1,731			1,303
	Total	$	15,312		$	16,275		$	10,801
	Capital expenditures:
	Executive Search and Leadership Consulting
	Americas	$	2,858		$	1,411		$	2,770
	Europe		478			822			1,441
	Asia Pacific		512			1,053			2,550
	Total Executive Search and Leadership Consulting		3,848			3,286			6,761
	Culture Shaping		53			13			—
	Total segments		3,901			3,286			6,761
	Global Operations Support		1,934			445			743
	Total	$	5,835		$	3,731		$	7,504
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,
		2014			2013
	Current assets:
	Executive Search and Leadership Consulting
	Americas	$	196,030		$	163,185
	Europe		49,185			50,000
	Asia Pacific		52,566			56,916
	Total Executive Search and Leadership Consulting		297,781			270,101
	Culture Shaping		32,157			20,232
	Total segments		329,938			290,333
	Global Operations Support		391			442
	Total allocated current assets		330,329			290,775
	Unallocated non-current assets:		95,257			112,538
	Goodwill and other intangible assets, net:
	Executive Search and Leadership Consulting
	Americas		83,314			83,980
	Asia Pacific		10,638			11,445
	Total Executive Search and Leadership Consulting		93,952			95,425
	Culture Shaping		49,163			54,486
	Total goodwill and other intangible assets, net		143,115			149,911
	Total assets:	$	568,701		$	553,224

Commitments_and_Contingencies_

Commitments and Contingencies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Summary of Minimum Future Office Space and Equipment Lease Payments Due	Minimum future office space and equipment lease payments due in each of the next five years and thereafter are as follows:
		Office		Equipment		Total
		Leases		Leases
	Year ending December 31,
	2015		26,789		704		27,493
	2016		24,494		444		24,938
	2017		18,684		161		18,845
	2018		17,239		63		17,302
	2019		15,072		24		15,096
	Thereafter		62,576		3		62,579
	Total		164,854		1,399		166,253

Summary_of_Significant_Account3

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Additional Information (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [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	33.00%
Percentage of excess of actual over estimated compensation of placed candidate billed to client	33.00%
Percentage increments billed to clients for retainer and indirect expenses	33.00%
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
Minimum [Member]
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Portion of deferred bonus	10.00%
Maximum [Member]
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Portion of deferred bonus	15.00%

Summary_of_Significant_Account4

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Summary of Estimated Useful Life of Property and Equipment (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
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	8 years

Allowance_for_Doubtful_Account2

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts - Summary of Allowance for Doubtful Accounts (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Summary Of Allowance For Doubtful Accounts [Abstract]
Balance at December 31, 2013	$4,709	$4,798	$3,805
Provision charged to income	241	851	2,175
Write-offs	-772	-870	-1,281
Currency	-236	-70	99
Balance at December 31, 2014	$3,942	$4,709	$4,798

Property_and_Equipment_Net_Com

Property and Equipment, Net - Components of Company's Property and Equipment (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, gross	$93,374	$106,582
Accumulated depreciation	-62,957	-71,621
Property and equipment, net	30,417	34,961
Leasehold Improvements [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, gross	43,930	44,242
Office Furniture, Fixtures and Equipment [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, gross	18,693	24,301
Computer Equipment and Software [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, gross	$30,751	$38,039

Property_and_Equipment_Net_Add

Property and Equipment, Net - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Depreciation expense	$9.80	$10.40	$10.20

Restricted_Cash_Components_of_

Restricted Cash - Components of Restricted Cash (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents Items [Line Items]
Current restricted cash	$6,501	$130
Non-current restricted cash	1,411	7,878
Retention Escrow [Member]
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents Items [Line Items]
Current restricted cash	6,501
Non-current restricted cash		6,501
Bank Guarantees [Member]
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents Items [Line Items]
Current restricted cash		130
Lease Guarantees [Member]
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents Items [Line Items]
Non-current restricted cash	1,316	1,377
Business Licenses [Member]
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents Items [Line Items]
Non-current restricted cash	$95

Restricted_Cash_Additional_Inf

Restricted Cash - Additional Information (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Abstract]
Business license agreement maturity period	Extend through 2017
Extend termination dates of the leases	Extend through 2018

Investments_Components_of_Comp

Investments - Components of Company's Investments (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Schedule of Fair Value of Separate Accounts by Major Category of Investment [Line Items]
Total	$13,989	$13,848
U.S. Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation Plan [Member]
Schedule of Fair Value of Separate Accounts by Major Category of Investment [Line Items]
Total	13,709	13,232
Warrants and Equity Securities [Member]
Schedule of Fair Value of Separate Accounts by Major Category of Investment [Line Items]
Total	$280	$616

Investments_Additional_Informa

Investments - Additional Information (Detail) (U.S. Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation Plan [Member], USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
U.S. Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation Plan [Member]
Schedule of Fair Value of Separate Accounts by Major Category of Investment [Line Items]
Aggregate cost basis for investments	$10.10	$9.90

Fair_Value_Measurements_Levels

Fair Value Measurements - Levels of Inputs Used to Measure Fair Value of Assets (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available for sale securities	$13,989	$13,848
Assets designated for retirement and pension plans	20,880	24,312
Derivatives designated as cash flow hedge	125	180
Warrants and equity securities	280	616
Acquisition earnout accruals	-12,944	-14,053
Total fair value of assets	22,050	24,287
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	13,709	13,232
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Total fair value of assets	13,709	13,232
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	13,709	13,232
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	20,880	24,312
Derivatives designated as cash flow hedge	125	180
Total fair value of assets	21,005	24,492
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Warrants and equity securities	280	616
Acquisition earnout accruals	-12,944	-14,053
Total fair value of assets	($12,664)	($13,437)

Fair_Value_Measurements_Reconc

Fair Value Measurements - Reconciliation of Beginning and Ending Balance of Level 3 Assets and Liabilities (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Balance at December 31, 2013		$24,287
Balance at December 31, 2014	22,050	24,287
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Balance at December 31, 2013	-13,437
Realized / unrealized gains	-336
Earnout accretion	-1,854
Earnout payments	3,390
Foreign currency translation	-427
Balance at December 31, 2014	-12,664
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member] | Warrants and Equity Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Balance at December 31, 2013	616
Realized / unrealized gains	-336
Balance at December 31, 2014	280
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member] | Acquisition Earnout Accruals [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Balance at December 31, 2013	-14,053
Earnout accretion	-1,854
Earnout payments	3,390
Foreign currency translation	-427
Balance at December 31, 2014	($12,944)

Acquisitions_Additional_Inform

Acquisitions - Additional Information (Detail)	12 Months Ended					3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013	Nov. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
	Scambler MacGregor [Member]	Scambler MacGregor [Member]	Scambler MacGregor [Member]	Scambler MacGregor [Member]	Scambler MacGregor [Member]	Senn Delaney [Member]	Senn Delaney [Member]	Senn Delaney [Member]	Senn Delaney [Member]
	USD ($)	AUD	USD ($)	AUD	AUD	USD ($)	USD ($)	USD ($)	USD ($)
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Acquisition Date	Nov-13	Nov-13					Dec-12
Consideration paid to purchase	$900,000		$1,000,000		1,100,000				$53,500,000
Estimated fair value of future earnout payments associated with acquisition					2,800,000
Accrued additional cash consideration	2,000,000	2,400,000	2,100,000	2,300,000			10,900,000	12,100,000
Additional payments relates to final working capital settlement			100,000
Identifiable intangible assets			400,000
Goodwill acquired			2,729,000						29,707,000
Percentage of equity of acquired company									100.00%
Additional cash consideration						3,400,000	15,000,000
Specific earnings milestones achieved period							Period December 2012 through December 2015
General and administrative expense of acquisition related costs							1,700,000	2,100,000
Retention escrow paid							6,500,000
Minimum service period acquired to cover under plan							3 years
Compensation expense							$2,000,000	$2,300,000

Goodwill_and_Other_Intangible_2

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets - Changes in Carrying Amount of Goodwill by Segment (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Goodwill [Line Items]
Beginning Balance	$123,274	$120,940	$90,696
Exchange rate fluctuations	-1,098	-395	537
Ending Balance	122,176	123,274	120,940
Senn Delaney [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Scambler MacGregor acquisition			29,707
Scambler MacGregor [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Scambler MacGregor acquisition		2,729
Executive Search and Leadership Consulting [Member] | Americas [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Beginning Balance	82,640	82,941	82,814
Exchange rate fluctuations	-370	-301	127
Ending Balance	82,270	82,640	82,941
Executive Search and Leadership Consulting [Member] | Asia Pacific [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Beginning Balance	10,854	8,292	7,882
Exchange rate fluctuations	-599	-167	410
Ending Balance	10,255	10,854	8,292
Executive Search and Leadership Consulting [Member] | Scambler MacGregor [Member] | Asia Pacific [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Scambler MacGregor acquisition		2,729
Culture Shaping [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Beginning Balance	29,780	29,707
Exchange rate fluctuations	-129	73
Ending Balance	29,651	29,780
Culture Shaping [Member] | Senn Delaney [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Scambler MacGregor acquisition			$29,707

Goodwill_and_Other_Intangible_3

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets - Goodwill - Additional Information (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
	Segment
Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Number of reporting units	4
Americas [Member]
Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Percentage of fair value excess by carrying value	134.00%
Culture Shaping [Member]
Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Percentage of fair value excess by carrying value	36.00%
Asia Pacific [Member]
Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Percentage of fair value excess by carrying value	13.00%

Goodwill_and_Other_Intangible_4

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets - Summary of Other Intangible Assets Net by Segment (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Net Carrying Amount	$20,939	$26,637
Executive Search and Leadership Consulting [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Net Carrying Amount	1,427	1,931
Executive Search and Leadership Consulting [Member] | Americas [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Net Carrying Amount	1,044	1,340
Executive Search and Leadership Consulting [Member] | Asia Pacific [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Net Carrying Amount	383	591
Culture Shaping [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Net Carrying Amount	$19,512	$24,706

Goodwill_and_Other_Intangible_5

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets - Carrying Amount of Amortizable Intangible Assets and Related Accumulated Amortization (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Weighted Average Life (in years)	10 years 3 months 18 days
Gross Carrying Amount	$40,443	$40,774
Accumulated Amortization	-19,504	-14,137
Net Carrying Amount	20,939	26,637
Client relationships [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Weighted Average Life (in years)	8 years 8 months 12 days
Gross Carrying Amount	23,316	23,541
Accumulated Amortization	-14,999	-11,834
Net Carrying Amount	8,317	11,707
Trade Name [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Weighted Average Life (in years)	15 years
Gross Carrying Amount	9,334	9,430
Accumulated Amortization	-2,358	-1,223
Net Carrying Amount	6,976	8,207
Software [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Weighted Average Life (in years)	7 years
Gross Carrying Amount	7,200	7,200
Accumulated Amortization	-2,057	-1,029
Net Carrying Amount	5,143	6,171
Non-compete [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Weighted Average Life (in years)	5 years
Gross Carrying Amount	593	603
Accumulated Amortization	-90	-51
Net Carrying Amount	$503	$552

Goodwill_and_Other_Intangible_6

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets - Intangible Assets- Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Intangible asset amortization expense, excluding impairment charge	$5.50	$5.80	$0.60
Estimated Intangible asset amortization expense 2015	4.7
Estimated Intangible asset amortization expense 2016	4.4
Estimated Intangible asset amortization expense 2017	3.6
Estimated Intangible asset amortization expense 2018	2.8
Estimated Intangible asset amortization expense 2019	$2.20

Derivative_Financial_Instrumen2

Derivative Financial Instruments - Additional Information (Detail) (Interest Rate Swap [Member], USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Interest Rate Swap [Member]
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosures [Line Items]
Amount of derivatives in contracts	$29.50	$35.50

Derivative_Financial_Instrumen3

Derivative Financial Instruments - Summary of Interest Rate Swap Contract (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosures [Line Items]
Derivative designed as cash flow hedge, Fair Value	$125	$180
Interest Rate Swap [Member]
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosures [Line Items]
Derivative designed as cash flow hedge, Fair Value	125	180
Derivative designed as cash flow hedge, Gain (Loss)	($55)	$180

Derivative_Financial_Instrumen4

Derivative Financial Instruments - Summary of Interest Rate Swap Contract (Parenthetical) (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Amount of tax on derivatives included in Accumulated other comprehensive expense(benefit)	($18)	$65

NonCurrent_Liabilities_Compone

Non-Current Liabilities - Components of Other Non-Current Liabilities (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Other Liabilities Disclosure [Abstract]
Accrued salaries and employee benefits	$31,605	$30,879
Premise related costs	15,058	16,562
Accrued earnout payments	7,567	11,628
Other	517	2,260
Total other non-current liabilities	$54,747	$61,329

Line_of_Credit_and_Term_Loan_A

Line of Credit and Term Loan - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended	1 Months Ended	0 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Jan. 31, 2013	Jun. 22, 2011	Dec. 31, 2013
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Borrowing amount under term loan facility			$75,000,000
Facility maturity date	22-Jun-16
Amortization period of term facility	5 years
Term Facility [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Borrowing amount under term loan facility		40,000,000
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Amount Outstanding During Period		40,000,000
Amount of quarterly payment	1,500,000
Quarterly payment of term loan facility in fifth year under Amendment Agreement	2,000,000
Interest rate swap	2.54%
Borrowings made or outstanding under line of credit	29,500,000			35,500,000
Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Borrowings made or outstanding under line of credit	0			0
Maximum [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Increased aggregate commitment under the facility			$25,000,000

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Additio

Employee Benefit Plans - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
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	11,400,000	11,000,000
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	2,300,000	2,200,000
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	5,000	5,000	4,750
Percentage of eligible compensation	5.00%	4.50%	4.00%
Eligible service period for company match	1 year
Matching employee contributions	$2,800,000	$2,400,000	$2,500,000

Pension_Plan_and_Life_Insuranc2

Pension Plan and Life Insurance Contract - Reconcile Benefit Obligation for Pension Plan (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Benefit obligation at January 1,	$26,398	$26,486
Service cost		173	147
Interest cost	799	820	1,042
Actuarial loss (gain)	4,794	-928
Benefits paid	-1,502	-1,218
Cumulative translation adjustment	-3,504	1,065
Benefit obligation at December 31,	$26,985	$26,398	$26,486

Pension_Plan_and_Life_Insuranc3

Pension Plan and Life Insurance Contract - Benefit Obligation Amounts Recognized in Consolidated Balance Sheets (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Noncurrent liabilities	$39,892	$38,735
German Pension [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Current liabilities	1,457	1,627
Noncurrent liabilities	25,528	24,771
Total	$26,985	$26,398

Pension_Plan_and_Life_Insuranc4

Pension Plan and Life Insurance Contract - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Accumulated benefit obligation	$26,985,000	$26,398,000	$26,486,000
Amount not recognized as a component of net periodic benefit cost	4,000,000	400,000
Amount expected to be recognized as a component of net periodic benefit cost	100,000
Fair value of pension benefits	20,880,000	24,312,000
Expected contribution to be paid into plan	$1,457,000

Pension_Plan_and_Life_Insuranc5

Pension Plan and Life Insurance Contract - Components of Assumptions Used to Determine Net Periodic Benefit Cost (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Service cost		$173	$147
Interest cost	799	820	1,042
Amortization of net gain			-47
Net periodic benefit cost	$799	$993	$1,142
Weighted average assumptions
Discount rate	3.25%	3.15%	4.65%
Rate of compensation increase	1.75%	1.75%	1.75%

Pension_Plan_and_Life_Insuranc6

Pension Plan and Life Insurance Contract - Assumptions to Determine Company's Benefit Obligation (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Discount rate	1.82%	[1]	3.25%	[1]	3.15%	[1]
Rate of compensation increase	1.75%		1.75%		1.75%
Measurement Date	31-Dec-14		31-Dec-13		31-Dec-12
[1]	The discount rates are based on long-term bond indices adjusted to reflect the longer duration of the benefit obligation.

Pension_Plan_and_Life_Insuranc7

Pension Plan and Life Insurance Contract - Summary of Benefits Expected to Be Paid in Each of Next Five Years (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
2015	$1,457
2016	1,458
2017	1,457
2018	1,453
2019	1,447
2020 through 2024	$7,028

Stockbased_Compensation_Additi

Stock-based Compensation - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended	0 Months Ended
In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	22-May-14	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	$3.30
Expected time to be recognized	2 years 9 months 18 days
Performance Stock Units [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Pre-tax unrecognized compensation expense	$1.90
Expected time to be recognized	1 year 8 months 12 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]
Awards outstanding	103,014		671,528
Prior Program [Member] | Restricted Stock Units [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Awards outstanding	77,770
Prior Program [Member] | Employee Stock Option [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Awards outstanding	8,877
Prior Program [Member] | Performance Stock Units [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Awards outstanding	16,367
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	772,665
Shares available for future awards	1,573,375
Number of forfeited awards under 2012 Program	346,040
Award expiration date	24-May-22

Stockbased_Compensation_Summar

Stock-based Compensation - Summary of Information with Respect to Stock-Based Compensation (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Salaries and employee benefits	$3,128	$3,447	$3,749
Income tax benefit related to stock-based compensation included in net income	1,444	1,468	1,705
General and Administrative Expense [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
General and administrative expenses	$451	$300	$450

Stockbased_Compensation_Restri

Stock-based Compensation - Restricted Stock Unit Activity (Detail) (Restricted Stock Units [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Restricted Stock Units [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of Stock Units, Beginning balance	270,455	361,778	489,720
Number of Stock Units, Granted	295,733	174,508	123,951
Number of Stock Units, Vested and converted to common stock	-93,159	-167,955	-211,616
Number of Stock Units, Forfeited	-10,312	-97,876	-40,277
Number of Stock Units, Ending balance	462,717	270,455	361,778
Weighted-Average Grant-date Fair Value, Beginning balance	$18.64	$23.43	$23.99
Weighted-Average Grant-date Fair Value, Granted	$18.02	$14.01	$19.84
Weighted-Average Grant-date Fair Value, Vested and converted to common stock	$19.65	$24.70	$22.35
Weighted-Average Grant-date Fair Value, Forfeited	$17.45	$17.69	$24.85
Weighted-Average Grant-date Fair Value, Ending balance	$18.07	$18.64	$23.43

Stockbased_Compensation_Perfor

Stock-based Compensation - Performance Stock Unit Activity (Detail) (Performance Stock Units [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Performance Stock Units [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of Stock Units, Beginning balance	61,321	80,000	140,230
Number of Stock Units, Granted	186,705	63,895	50,315
Number of Stock Units, Vested and converted to common stock	-9,429		-58,487
Number of Stock Units, Forfeited	-9,427	-82,574	-52,058
Number of Stock Units, Ending balance	229,170	61,321	80,000
Weighted-Average Grant-date Fair Value, Beginning balance	$19.77	$23.75	$23.67
Weighted-Average Grant-date Fair Value, Granted	$17.19	$13.89	$20.62
Weighted-Average Grant-date Fair Value, Vested and converted to common stock	$27.18		$18.07
Weighted-Average Grant-date Fair Value, Forfeited	$27.18	$19.07	$26.89
Weighted-Average Grant-date Fair Value, Ending balance	$17.06	$19.77	$23.75

Changes_in_Accumulated_Other_C2

Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income - Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income ("AOCI") by Component (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Balance at December 31, 2013	$14,969
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassification, net of tax	-3,545
Amount reclassified from AOCI	-201	[1]
Net current period other comprehensive income (loss)	-3,746		9	-1,277
Balance at December 31, 2014	11,223		14,969
Cash Flow Hedge Adjustment [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Balance at December 31, 2013	115
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassification, net of tax	-170
Amount reclassified from AOCI	133	[1]
Net current period other comprehensive income (loss)	-37
Balance at December 31, 2014	78
Available-for-Sale Securities Adjustment [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Balance at December 31, 2013	2,921
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassification, net of tax	596
Amount reclassified from AOCI	-334	[1]
Net current period other comprehensive income (loss)	262
Balance at December 31, 2014	3,183
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Balance at December 31, 2013	11,607
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassification, net of tax	-1,235
Net current period other comprehensive income (loss)	-1,235
Balance at December 31, 2014	10,372
Pension Adjustment [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Balance at December 31, 2013	326
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassification, net of tax	-2,736
Net current period other comprehensive income (loss)	-2,736
Balance at December 31, 2014	($2,410)
[1]	Cash Flow Hedge and Available-for-Sale Securities reclassifications from AOCI are included in Interest, net and Other, net, respectively, in the Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income.

Income_Taxes_Sources_of_Income

Income Taxes - Sources of Income before Income Taxes (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
United States	$25,956	$29,334	$32,030
Foreign	-1,769	-15,946	-11,768
Income before income taxes	$24,187	$13,388	$20,262

Income_Taxes_Provision_for_Ben

Income Taxes - Provision for (Benefit from) Income Taxes (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Current
Federal	$10,997	$6,954	$4,287
State and local	3,141	2,575	2,392
Foreign	2,537	1,430	5,278
Current provision for income taxes	16,675	10,959	11,957
Deferred
Federal	-2,845	1,026	7,300
State and local	-242	-16	206
Foreign	3,802	-4,928	-5,441
Deferred provision (benefit) for income taxes	715	-3,918	2,065
Total provision for income taxes	$17,390	$7,041	$14,022

Income_Taxes_Additional_Inform

Income Taxes - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2015
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Statutory U.S. federal income tax rate	35.00%
Valuation allowance	$28,738,000	$29,423,000
Foreign tax credit carryforwards	15,213,000	14,504,000
Losses carried forward	Indefinitely or for periods ranging from five to twenty years
Foreign tax credit carryforward expiring	2017 through 2024
Unremitted earnings held in foreign subsidiaries	67,700,000
Tax provided on earnings	3,400,000
Unremitted earnings intended to be remitted	15,200,000
Unrecognized tax benefits	143,000	362,000	534,000	432,000
Several statutes of limitation expected to close	12 months
Accrued interest and penalties	100,000
Scenario, Forecast [Member]
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Increases or decreases in unrecognized tax benefits					0
Minimum [Member]
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Operating loss carryforwards ranging period	5 years
Maximum [Member]
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Operating loss carryforwards ranging period	20 years
Foreign Tax Authority [Member]
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Net operating loss carryforward	105,500,000
Net operating loss carryforward subject to valuation allowance	82,800,000
Foreign tax credit carryforwards	15,200,000
Income tax examination years subject to examination	Years prior to 2009
Federal Tax Authority [Member]
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Net operating loss carryforward	$500,000
Income tax examination years subject to examination	Year 2013
State Tax Authority [Member]
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Income tax examination years subject to examination	2009 through 2013

Income_Taxes_Reconciliation_of

Income Taxes - Reconciliation of Provision for (Benefit from) Income Taxes (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income tax provision at the statutory U.S. federal rate	$8,466	$4,686	$7,092
State income tax provision, net of federal tax benefit	1,423	1,618	1,930
Nondeductible expenses	1,747	-109	1,600
Foreign tax rates differential (includes changes in foreign valuation allowance)	1,396	2,816	4,032
Establishment (release) of valuation allowance	4,708	-1,615	-3,119
U.S. tax on foreign dividends	722	1,838	1,215
Current/deferred true-up	-1,499	-1,786	2,040
Other, net	427	-407	-768
Total provision for income taxes	$17,390	$7,041	$14,022

Income_Taxes_Summary_of_Deferr

Income Taxes - Summary of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Foreign net operating loss carryforwards	$29,030	$32,018
Accrued compensation & employee benefits	19,178	13,741
Deferred compensation	15,356	15,003
Foreign tax credit carryforwards	15,213	14,504
Accrued rent	4,180	4,569
Other accrued expenses	2,260	4,967
Deferred tax assets, before valuation allowance	85,217	84,802
Valuation allowance	-28,738	-29,423
Deferred tax assets, after valuation allowance	56,479	55,379
Deferred tax liabilities attributable to:
Goodwill	14,973	13,616
Taxes provided on unremitted earnings	3,431	2,836
Depreciation on property and equipment	2,563	3,166
Other	87	513
Deferred tax liabilities	21,054	20,131
Net deferred tax assets	$35,425	$35,248

Income_Taxes_Reconciliation_of1

Income Taxes - Reconciliation of Amounts of Gross Unrecognized Tax Benefits (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Gross unrecognized tax benefits at January 1,	$362	$534	$432
Gross increases for tax positions of prior years	151		689
Gross decreases for tax positions of prior years	-191
Settlements	-143	-7	-494
Lapse of statute of limitations	-36	-165	-93
Gross unrecognized tax benefits at December 31,	$143	$362	$534

Segment_Information_Revenue_Op

Segment Information - Revenue, Operating Income, Depreciation and Amortization, and Capital Expenditures, by Segment (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Revenue:
Revenue before reimbursements (net revenue)	$494,292	$461,995	$443,777
Reimbursements	18,947	18,998	21,304
Total revenue	513,239	480,993	465,081
Operating income (loss):
Operating income before restructuring charges	26,653	15,565	20,449
Restructuring charges			-810
Operating (loss) income	26,653	15,565	19,639
Depreciation and amortization:
Depreciation and amortization	15,312	16,275	10,801
Capital expenditures:
Capital Expenditure	3,359	3,731	7,504
Operating Segments [Member]
Operating income (loss):
Operating (loss) income	71,995	53,121	58,482
Depreciation and amortization:
Depreciation and amortization	13,402	14,544	9,498
Capital expenditures:
Capital Expenditure	3,901	3,286	6,761
Global Operations Support [Member]
Operating income (loss):
Global Operations Support	-45,342	-37,556	-38,033
Depreciation and amortization:
Depreciation and amortization	1,910	1,731	1,303
Capital expenditures:
Capital Expenditure	1,934	445	743
Segment Reconciling Items [Member]
Operating income (loss):
Restructuring charges			-810
Executive Search and Leadership Consulting [Member] | Operating Segments [Member]
Revenue:
Revenue before reimbursements (net revenue)	459,541	437,205	443,777
Operating income (loss):
Operating (loss) income	67,374	57,336	58,482
Depreciation and amortization:
Depreciation and amortization	8,077	8,806	9,498
Capital expenditures:
Capital Expenditure	3,848	3,286	6,761
Culture Shaping [Member] | Operating Segments [Member]
Revenue:
Revenue before reimbursements (net revenue)	34,751	24,790
Operating income (loss):
Operating (loss) income	4,621	-4,215
Depreciation and amortization:
Depreciation and amortization	5,325	5,738
Capital expenditures:
Capital Expenditure	53	13
Executive Search and Leadership Consulting Americas Segment [Member] | Executive Search and Leadership Consulting [Member] | Operating Segments [Member]
Revenue:
Revenue before reimbursements (net revenue)	260,830	256,706	254,395
Operating income (loss):
Operating (loss) income	57,682	60,171	53,172
Depreciation and amortization:
Depreciation and amortization	2,942	3,672	4,192
Capital expenditures:
Capital Expenditure	2,858	1,411	2,770
Executive Search and Leadership Consulting Europe Segment [Member] | Executive Search and Leadership Consulting [Member] | Operating Segments [Member]
Revenue:
Revenue before reimbursements (net revenue)	108,979	90,081	99,004
Operating income (loss):
Operating (loss) income	4,806	-6,513	3,228
Depreciation and amortization:
Depreciation and amortization	3,279	2,853	2,751
Capital expenditures:
Capital Expenditure	478	822	1,441
Executive Search and Leadership Consulting Asia Pacific Segment [Member] | Executive Search and Leadership Consulting [Member] | Operating Segments [Member]
Revenue:
Revenue before reimbursements (net revenue)	89,732	90,418	90,378
Operating income (loss):
Operating (loss) income	4,886	3,678	2,082
Depreciation and amortization:
Depreciation and amortization	1,856	2,281	2,555
Capital expenditures:
Capital Expenditure	$512	$1,053	$2,550

Segment_Information_Identifiab

Segment Information - Identifiable Assets, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets, Net, by Segment (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Current assets:
Total allocated current assets	$330,329	$290,774
Unallocated non-current assets	95,257	112,538
Goodwill and other intangible assets:
Total goodwill and intangible assets	143,115	149,911
Total assets	568,701	553,224
Scenario, Previously Reported [Member]
Current assets:
Total allocated current assets		290,775
Operating Segments [Member]
Current assets:
Total allocated current assets	329,938	290,333
Global Operations Support [Member]
Current assets:
Total allocated current assets	391	442
Executive Search and Leadership Consulting [Member] | Operating Segments [Member]
Current assets:
Total allocated current assets	297,781	270,101
Goodwill and other intangible assets:
Total goodwill and intangible assets	93,952	95,425
Culture Shaping [Member] | Operating Segments [Member]
Current assets:
Total allocated current assets	32,157	20,232
Goodwill and other intangible assets:
Total goodwill and intangible assets	49,163	54,486
Americas [Member] | Executive Search and Leadership Consulting [Member] | Operating Segments [Member]
Current assets:
Total allocated current assets	196,030	163,185
Goodwill and other intangible assets:
Total goodwill and intangible assets	83,314	83,980
Europe [Member] | Executive Search and Leadership Consulting [Member] | Operating Segments [Member]
Current assets:
Total allocated current assets	49,185	50,000
Asia Pacific [Member] | Executive Search and Leadership Consulting [Member] | Operating Segments [Member]
Current assets:
Total allocated current assets	52,566	56,916
Goodwill and other intangible assets:
Total goodwill and intangible assets	$10,638	$11,445

Guarantees_Additional_Informat

Guarantees - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014
Guarantees [Abstract]
Maximum undiscounted payments under outstanding guarantees	$2
Extend termination dates of the leases	Extend through 2018

Commitments_and_Contingencies_1

Commitments and Contingencies - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
	Country
	City
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]
Number of cities in which office spaces leased	49
Number of countries in which office spaces leased	26
Leases expiration period	Through 2026
Rent expense and costs of equipment leases	$24,100,000	$27,100,000	$28,100,000
Rent expense, costs of equipment leases and maintenance costs	32,300,000	32,400,000	32,100,000
Aggregate minimum future payments on office leases	166,253,000
Sublease income	1,700,000
Sublease expiration period	Through 2016
Asset retirement obligation	1,900,000	1,700,000
Office Leases [Member]
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]
Aggregate minimum future payments on office leases	$164,854,000

Commitments_and_Contingencies_2

Commitments and Contingencies - Summary of Minimum Future Office Space and Equipment Lease Payments Due (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]
2015	$27,493
2016	24,938
2017	18,845
2018	17,302
2019	15,096
Thereafter	62,579
Total	166,253
Office Leases [Member]
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]
2015	26,789
2016	24,494
2017	18,684
2018	17,239
2019	15,072
Thereafter	62,576
Total	164,854
Equipment Leases [Member]
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]
2015	704
2016	444
2017	161
2018	63
2019	24
Thereafter	3
Total	$1,399

Commitments_and_Contingencies_3

Commitments and Contingencies - Litigation - Additional Information (Detail)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2014
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	USD ($)	GBP (£)
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Proposed adjustment to payroll tax liability	$6.10	£ 3.9