Question · Q1 2026
Joshua K. Chan inquired about the strong performance of Executive Search in North America, which appears to be outperforming the broader macro environment. Chan also asked how Korn Ferry leverages a choppy economic environment to strengthen its market position and win new business.
Answer
CEO Gary Burnison attributed Executive Search strength to demographic shifts (peak 65), C-suite decisions on work-life balance, and boards reassessing leadership skills for future needs. Burnison stated that a chaotic environment presents opportunities for good companies to become great, fostering internal change and a "one firm" mindset across Korn Ferry's solutions. CFO Robert Rozek added that clients turn to Korn Ferry during chaotic times (like COVID or AI/GenAI uncertainty) to navigate workforce changes and organizational challenges, reinforcing client relationships.