Korn Ferry (KFV): Solid F4Q with mix-led outperformance and early signs of volume inflection

Research evidence excerpt

Korn Ferry (KFV): Solid F4Q with mix-led outperformance and early signs of volume inflection

Goldman Sachs Korn Ferry (KFY)

EPS outperforms expectations. EBITDA margins were flat y/y at 17.0% with operating

leverage offset by higher compensation and costs of services, and came below our

estimate and consensus of 17.2%. EPS of $1.40 beat our forecast and consensus of

$1.38.

F4Q 2026 Positives / Negatives

Positives:

n Leading indicators turning more constructive exiting the quarter. KFY highlighted

an improving pipeline and stronger trailing 3-4 month trends, suggesting demand is

beginning to inflect ahead of reported results. The quarter itself remains driven by

pricing and mix, but forward indicators point to a gradual reacceleration in volumes

into F2027.

n Upmarket shift becoming structural driver of growth and pricing power.

Executive search fee revenue grew 7% y/y in the quarter, attributable to higher fees

per engagement and more work at senior levels. Average fees have increased ~10%

over the past several years, reinforcing a sustained upmarket trend. This results in a

higher-quality revenue base with greater pricing power and margin durability vs

transactional staffing peers.

n Cross-solution integration now driving measurable share gains within client

base. Cross-solution referrals accounted for 29% of fee revenue in F4Q, up from

27% in F3Q, as KFY has shifted to more coordinated, deal-level collaboration across

teams. This suggests cross-sell is becoming increasingly systematic, supporting

deeper penetration of the existing client base and expanding wallet share.

n Consulting demand strengthening on larger engagements and pricing.

Consulting revenue growth accelerated from 2% y/y CC in F3Q to 5% in F4Q, driven

by larger engagements and higher bill rates.