Korn Ferry 2026 Q1 Earnings Strong Performance as Net Income Rises 4.9%

Korn Ferry reported its fiscal 2026 Q1 earnings on September 9, 2025, delivering solid results that reflect steady growth and operational resilience in a challenging economic environment. The company not only exceeded expectations with its revenue performance but also guided for a cautious yet optimistic outlook for the coming quarter, underscoring its confidence in its strategic initiatives and client relationships.

Korn Ferry’s total revenue rose 4.8% year-over-year to $715.54 million in 2026 Q1, driven by broad-based strength across its service lines. Fee revenue accounted for the lion’s share at $708.61 million, with the consulting segment contributing $169.96 million, and the digital division adding $89.20 million. Executive search generated $224.25 million, while professional search and interim services brought in $133.90 million. The company’s RPO business added $91.30 million, and reimbursed out-of-pocket engagement expenses totaled $6.93 million. The performance across all business segments highlights the firm’s successful diversification strategy and ability to deliver consistent client value.

Earnings per share (EPS) for Korn Ferry climbed 7.6% year-over-year to $1.28 in 2026 Q1, while net income rose 4.9% to $67.43 million, reflecting improved profitability and cost management. These results underscore the company’s strong execution and continued ability to drive earnings growth in a dynamic market.

The stock price of Korn Ferry has shown mixed performance in recent periods, with a 4.52% decline during the latest trading day and a 1.31% drop over the previous full trading week. However, the stock has gained 3.45% month-to-date, indicating some investor confidence amid the company’s positive earnings.

Following the earnings release, Gary Burnison, President, CEO & Executive Director of Korn Ferry, expressed strong optimism about the company’s performance and its long-term outlook. He highlighted the success of Korn Ferry’s diversification strategy, noting growth across all solutions and significant client engagements, including a global leadership initiative for a top pharmaceutical company and a digital assessment program for an FTSE 100 retailer. Burnison emphasized the importance of integrated, multi-solution client partnerships and the continued expansion of Marquee and Diamond accounts, which contribute nearly 40% of revenue and drive a 10% compound annual growth rate over the past decade. He also underscored the company’s disciplined capital allocation approach, including dividend growth and strategic M&A, and expressed confidence in Korn Ferry’s future, driven by its strong brand, scalable solutions, and deep client relationships.

Korn Ferry provided guidance for Q2 2026, anticipating fee revenue in the range of $690 million to $710 million, an adjusted EBITDA margin of 17% to 17.5%, and consolidated adjusted diluted earnings per share between $1.23 and $1.33. The guidance reflects a cautious stance amid economic and geopolitical uncertainties. GAAP diluted EPS is projected to be between $1.10 and $1.16, which includes a $0.14 per share charge for accelerated depreciation related to a retiring technology platform. The company remains focused on operational excellence, innovation, and client service to navigate the uncertain environment.

Additional News

While no significant M&A activity or C-level executive changes were reported within the three weeks following Korn Ferry’s earnings release, there were notable developments in Nigeria and other global markets. On September 8, 2025, Nigeria’s government announced the suspension of raw shea exports to boost the competitiveness of local businesses and ensure value addition within the country. This move aligns with broader economic reforms aimed at strengthening domestic industries and reducing reliance on raw material exports.

Additionally, the Nigerian government reserved contracts below N20 billion for local firms, a policy aimed at promoting indigenous participation in infrastructure and service sectors. Meanwhile, the Nigerian Army announced the successful dismantling of a terrorist logistics network and the rescue of nine hostages, highlighting ongoing efforts to combat insurgency and restore security in affected regions.

These developments, while not directly tied to Korn Ferry’s operations, reflect the broader economic and political environment in which global firms operate. As companies like Korn Ferry continue to adapt to shifting market dynamics, both in the U.S. and internationally, these macro-level developments may influence future strategic decisions and business performance.