Document


 

UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
_____________________

FORM 8-K

CURRENT REPORT

PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

February 27, 2018
Date of Report (Date of earliest event reported)
_____________________

Huron Consulting Group Inc.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Delaware
000-50976
01-0666114
(State or other jurisdiction
(Commission
(IRS Employer
of incorporation)
File Number)
Identification Number)

550 West Van Buren Street
Chicago, Illinois
60607
(Address of principal executive offices)
(Zip Code)

(312) 583-8700
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)
_____________________

Check the appropriate box below if the Form 8-K filing is intended to simultaneously satisfy the filing obligation of the registrant under any of the following provisions:
o
Written communications pursuant to Rule 425 under the Securities Act (17 CFR 230.425)
 
o
Soliciting material pursuant to Rule 14a-12 under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14a-12)
 
o
Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 14d-2(b) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR
240.14d-2(b))
 
o
Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 13e-4(c) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR
240.13e-4(c))
 
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an emerging growth company as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act of 1933 (§230.405 of this chapter) or Rule 12b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (§240.12b-2 of this chapter).
 
Emerging growth company
o
 
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act.
o

 





Item 2.02.    Results of Operations and Financial Condition.

On February 27, 2018, Huron Consulting Group Inc. issued a press release announcing its financial results for the three and twelve months ended December 31, 2017. A copy of the press release is furnished as Exhibit 99.1 to this Current Report on Form 8-K.

The information furnished pursuant to this Item 2.02 and the attached Exhibit 99.1 shall not be deemed filed for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 or otherwise subject to the liabilities of that section, nor shall it be deemed incorporated by reference in any filing under the Securities Act of 1933, except as shall be expressly set forth by specific reference in such filing.

Item 9.01.    Financial Statements and Exhibits.

(d)     Exhibits
99.1     Press release, dated February 27, 2018






SIGNATURE


Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned hereunto duly authorized.


 
 
 
Huron Consulting Group Inc.
 
 
 
(Registrant)
 
 
 
 
Date:
February 27, 2018
 
/s/ John D. Kelly
 
 
 
John D. Kelly
 
 
 
Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, and Treasurer



Exhibit

Exhibit 99.1

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NEWS
 
MEDIA CONTACT
 
Sarah McHugh
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
 
312-880-2624
 
 
smchugh@huronconsultinggroup.com
 
 
 
 
 
INVESTOR CONTACT
 
 
John D. Kelly
 
 
312-583-8722
 
 
investor@huronconsultinggroup.com
Huron Announces Fourth Quarter, Full Year 2017 Financial Results, and 2018 Guidance
FOURTH QUARTER 2017 HIGHLIGHTS
Revenues increased 4.4% to $185.9 million in Q4 2017 compared to $178.1 million in Q4 2016.
Net loss from continuing operations, which includes a non-cash pre-tax goodwill impairment charge of $45.0 million related to the company's Business Advisory segment, was $29.3 million in Q4 2017 compared to net income from continuing operations of $4.2 million in Q4 2016.
Adjusted EBITDA(6), a non-GAAP measure, was $31.5 million in Q4 2017 compared to $23.9 million in Q4 2016.
Diluted loss per share from continuing operations was $1.36 in Q4 2017 compared to diluted earnings per share from continuing operations of $0.19 in Q4 2016.
Adjusted diluted earnings per share from continuing operations(6), a non-GAAP measure, was $0.68 in Q4 2017 compared to $0.58 in Q4 2016.
FULL YEAR 2017 HIGHLIGHTS AND 2018 GUIDANCE
Revenues for full year 2017 increased 0.9% to $732.6 million compared to $726.3 million for full year 2016.
Net loss from continuing operations for full year 2017, which includes non-cash pretax goodwill impairment charges of $253.1 million related to the company's Healthcare and Business Advisory segments, was $170.5 million, compared to net income from continuing operations of $39.5 million for full year 2016.
Adjusted EBITDA(6) for full year 2017 was $104.6 million compared to $129.7 million for full year 2016.
Diluted loss per share from continuing operations was $7.95 for full year 2017 compared to diluted earnings per share from continuing operations of $1.84 for full year 2016.
Adjusted diluted earnings per share from continuing operations(6) was $2.15 for full year 2017 compared to $3.21 for full year 2016.
Huron provides full year 2018 earnings guidance, including revenue expectations in a range of $720.0 million to $760.0 million.
CHICAGO - Feb. 27, 2018 - Global professional services firm Huron (NASDAQ: HURN) today announced financial results from continuing operations for the fourth quarter and full year ended Dec. 31, 2017.
"Our fourth quarter results were slightly below our expectations, with mixed results across segments. We have made significant progress in the operational turnaround of our Healthcare business, growing segment revenues 20% sequentially in the fourth quarter," said James H. Roth, chief executive officer and president of Huron. "The


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Education segment performed well throughout the year and finished the fourth quarter consistent with our expectations. The Business Advisory segment had a softer fourth quarter, but we believe they are positioned for growth in 2018.”

“While we are encouraged by the strengthening in demand in the healthcare market in the fourth quarter, we remain cautious about predicting our performance in 2018. Nevertheless, I am confident in our strategic direction and believe we have repositioned our company to return to sustainable organic growth in the years ahead,” added Roth
FOURTH QUARTER 2017 RESULTS FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS
Revenues increased 4.4% to $185.9 million for the fourth quarter of 2017 compared to $178.1 million for the fourth quarter of 2016. Fourth quarter 2017 revenues included $9.8 million from Huron's 2017 acquisitions of Innosight Holdings, LLC (Innosight) and Pope Woodhead and Associates Limited (Pope Woodhead). Fourth quarter 2017 revenues also included revenues from Huron's 2017 acquisition of the international assets of ADI Strategies, which has since been fully integrated into the Business Advisory segment.
Net loss from continuing operations was $29.3 million for the fourth quarter of 2017 compared to net income from continuing operations of $4.2 million for the same period last year. Fourth quarter 2017 results reflect a non-cash
pretax charge of $45.0 million to reduce the carrying value of goodwill in the company's Business Advisory segment. The impairment charge is non-cash in nature and does not affect the company's liquidity or debt covenants. Diluted loss per share from continuing operations was $1.36 for the fourth quarter of 2017, compared to diluted earnings per share from continuing operations of $0.19 for the fourth quarter of 2016.
Fourth quarter 2017 loss before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization ("EBITDA")(6) was $14.6 million, compared to earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization of $20.7 million in the same period last year.
In addition to using EBITDA to evaluate the company’s financial performance, management uses other non-GAAP financial measures, which exclude the effect of the following items (in thousands):
 
Three Months Ended
December 31,
 
2017
 
2016
Amortization of intangible assets
$
8,595

 
$
8,739

Restructuring charges
$
951

 
$
5,463

Other losses (gains), net
$
1,333

 
$
(2,484
)
Goodwill impairment charges
$
43,493

 
$

Non-cash interest on convertible notes
$
1,998

 
$
1,906

Other non-operating expense
$
235

 
$

Foreign currency transaction losses
$
15

 
$
259

Tax effect
$
(21,195
)
 
$
(5,354
)
Tax expense related to the enactment of Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017
$
8,762

 
$

Tax benefit related to "check-the-box" election
$
20

 
$

The company has excluded the impact of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, which was enacted in the fourth quarter of 2017, to permit comparability with prior periods.
Adjusted EBITDA(6) was $31.5 million, or 16.9% of revenues, in the fourth quarter of 2017, compared to $23.9 million, or 13.4% of revenues, in the same quarter last year. Adjusted net income from continuing operations(6) was $14.9 million, or $0.68 per diluted share, for the fourth quarter of 2017, compared to $12.5 million, or $0.58 per diluted share, for the same period in 2016.
The average number of full-time billable consultants(2) increased 7.1% to 2,140 in the fourth quarter of 2017 compared to 1,998 in the same quarter last year. Full-time billable consultant utilization rate(3) was 74.2% during the fourth quarter of 2017 compared to 72.2% during the same period last year. Average billing rate per hour for full-time billable consultants(4) was $205 for the fourth quarter of 2017 compared to $209 for the fourth quarter of 2016.


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The average number of full-time equivalent professionals(5) was 256 in the fourth quarter of 2017 compared to 277 for the same period in 2016.
FULL YEAR 2017 RESULTS FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS
Revenues increased 0.9% to $732.6 million for full year 2017 compared to $726.3 million for full year 2016. 2017 revenues included $43.9 million from Huron's 2017 acquisitions of Innosight and Pope Woodhead, and $13.9 million of incremental revenues due to the full period impact of the acquisitions of MyRounding Solutions, LLC, and HSM Consulting, which were completed in Feb. 2016 and Aug. 2016, respectively. Revenues for full year 2017 also included a full period impact of Huron's acquisition of the U.S. assets of ADI Strategies and revenues from the acquisition of the international assets of ADI Strategies. These acquisitions were completed in May 2016 and Apr. 2017, respectively, and have been fully integrated into the Business Advisory segment.
Net loss from continuing operations was $170.5 million for full year 2017 compared to net income from continuing operations of $39.5 million for full year 2016. Results for full year 2017 reflect non-cash pretax goodwill impairment charges of $253.1 million related to the company's Healthcare and Business Advisory segments. The impairment charges are non-cash in nature and do not affect the company's liquidity or debt covenants. Diluted loss per share from continuing operations was $7.95 for the full year 2017, compared to diluted earnings per share from continuing operations of $1.84 for full year 2016.
Loss before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization(6) for the full year 2017 was $154.7 million, compared to EBITDA of $122.1 million for full year 2016.
In addition to using EBITDA to evaluate the company’s financial performance, management uses other non-GAAP financial measures, which exclude the effect of the following items (in thousands):
 
Twelve Months Ended
December 31,
 
2017
 
2016
Amortization of intangible assets
$
35,027

 
$
33,108

Restructuring charges
$
6,246

 
$
9,592

Other losses (gains), net
$
1,111

 
$
(1,990
)
Goodwill impairment charges
$
253,093

 
$

Non-cash interest on convertible notes
$
7,851

 
$
7,488

Other non-operating expense (income)
$
(696
)
 
$

Foreign currency transaction gains, net
$
(434
)
 
$
(11
)
Tax effect
$
(91,557
)
 
$
(18,942
)
Tax expense related to the enactment of Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017
$
8,762

 
$

Tax benefit related to "check-the-box" election
$
(2,728
)
 
$

The company has excluded the effect of a $2.7 million tax benefit, recorded in the third quarter of 2017, from recognizing a previously unrecognized tax benefit from a "check-the-box" election made in 2014 to treat one of the company's wholly-owned foreign subsidiaries as a disregarded entity for U.S. federal income tax purposes.
The company has also excluded the impact of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, which was enacted in the fourth quarter of 2017, to permit comparability with prior periods.
Adjusted EBITDA(6) was $104.6 million, or 14.3% of revenues, for the full year of 2017, compared to $129.7 million, or 17.9% of revenues, for the full year 2016. Adjusted net income from continuing operations(6) was $46.6 million, or $2.15 per diluted share, for the full year 2017, compared to $68.7 million, or $3.21 per diluted share, for the full year 2016.
The average number of full-time billable consultants(2) increased 6.5% to 2,045 for the full year 2017 compared to 1,921 in the same period last year. Full-time billable consultant utilization rate(3) was 74.5% for the full year 2017 compared to 74.6% during the same period last year. Average billing rate per hour for full-time billable consultants(4)


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was $203 for the full year 2017 compared to $212 for the full year 2016. The average number of full-time equivalent professionals(5) was 268 for full year 2017 compared to 261 for the full year 2016.
OPERATING SEGMENTS
Huron’s results reflect a portfolio of service offerings focused on helping clients address complex business challenges.
The company’s full year 2017 revenues by operating segment as a percentage of total company revenues are as follows: Healthcare (49%); Education (23%); and Business Advisory (28%). Financial results by segment are included in the attached schedules and in Huron's forthcoming Annual Report on Form 10-K filing for the year ended Dec. 31, 2017.
OUTLOOK FOR 2018(8) 
Based on currently available information, the company provided guidance for full year 2018 of revenues before reimbursable expenses in a range of $720.0 million to $760.0 million. The company anticipates net income in a range of $23.0 million to $29.5 million, and both EBITDA and adjusted EBITDA in a range of $86.5 million to $98.5 million. GAAP diluted earnings per share is expected in a range of $1.05 to $1.35, and non-GAAP adjusted diluted earnings per share is expected in a range of $2.10 to $2.40.
Management will provide a more detailed discussion of its outlook during the company’s earnings conference call webcast.
FOURTH QUARTER 2017 WEBCAST
The company will host a webcast to discuss its financial results today, Feb. 27, 2018, at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time (4:00 p.m. Central Time). The conference call is being webcast by NASDAQ and can be accessed at Huron's website at http://ir.huronconsultinggroup.com. A replay will be available approximately two hours after the conclusion of the webcast and for 90 days thereafter. 
USE OF NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES(6) 
In evaluating the company’s financial performance and outlook, management uses EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA as a percentage of revenues, adjusted net income (loss) from continuing operations, and adjusted diluted earnings (loss) per share from continuing operations, which are non-GAAP measures. Management uses these non-GAAP financial measures to gain an understanding of the company's comparative operating performance (when comparing such results with previous periods or forecasts). These non-GAAP financial measures are used by management in their financial and operating decision making because management believes they reflect the company's ongoing business in a manner that allows for meaningful period-to-period comparisons. Management also uses these non-GAAP financial measures when publicly providing their business outlook, for internal management purposes, and as a basis for evaluating potential acquisitions and dispositions. Management believes that these non-GAAP financial measures provide useful information to investors and others in understanding and evaluating Huron’s current operating performance and future prospects in the same manner as management does, if they so choose, and in comparing in a consistent manner Huron’s current financial results with Huron’s past financial results. Investors should recognize that these non-GAAP measures might not be comparable to similarly titled measures of other companies. These measures should be considered in addition to, and not as a substitute for or superior to, any measure of performance, cash flows or liquidity prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States.
ABOUT HURON
Huron is a global professional services firm committed to achieving sustainable results in partnership with its clients. The company brings depth of expertise in strategy, technology, operations, advisory services and analytics to drive lasting and measurable results in the healthcare, higher education, life sciences and commercial sectors. Through focus, passion and collaboration, Huron provides guidance to support organizations as they contend with the change transforming their industries and businesses. Learn more at www.huronconsultinggroup.com.


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###
Statements in this press release that are not historical in nature, including those concerning the company’s current expectations about its future requirements and needs, are “forward-looking” statements as defined in Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are identified by words such as “may,” “should,” “expects,” “provides,” “anticipates,” “assumes,” “can,” “will,” “meets,” “could,” “likely,” “intends,” “might,” “predicts,” “seeks,” “would,” “believes,” “estimates,” “plans,” “continues,” or “outlook” or similar expressions. These forward-looking statements reflect the company's current expectations about future requirements and needs, results, levels of activity, performance, or achievements. Some of the factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements contained herein include, without limitation: failure to achieve expected utilization rates, billing rates and the number of revenue-generating professionals; inability to expand or adjust our service offerings in response to market demands; our dependence on renewal of client-based services; dependence on new business and retention of current clients and qualified personnel; failure to maintain third-party provider relationships and strategic alliances; inability to license technology to and from third parties; the impairment of goodwill; various factors related to income and other taxes; difficulties in successfully integrating the businesses we acquire and achieving expected benefits from such acquisitions; risks relating to privacy, information security, and related laws and standards; and a general downturn in market conditions. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors, including, among others, those described under “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in Huron's forthcoming Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2017, that may cause actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from any anticipated results, levels of activity, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. The company disclaims any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements as a result of new information or future events, or for any other reason.






HURON CONSULTING GROUP INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
(In thousands, except per share amounts)
(Unaudited)
 
Three Months Ended
December 31,
 
Twelve Months Ended
December 31,
 
2017
 
2016
 
2017
 
2016
Revenues and reimbursable expenses:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenues
$
185,927

 
$
178,124

 
$
732,570

 
$
726,272

Reimbursable expenses
19,313

 
17,076

 
75,175

 
71,712

Total revenues and reimbursable expenses
205,240

 
195,200

 
807,745

 
797,984

Direct costs and reimbursable expenses (exclusive of depreciation and amortization shown in operating expenses):
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Direct costs
111,621

 
114,246

 
454,806

 
437,556

Amortization of intangible assets and software development costs
2,544

 
3,862

 
10,932

 
15,140

Reimbursable expenses
19,535

 
17,002

 
75,436

 
71,749

Total direct costs and reimbursable expenses
133,700

 
135,110

 
541,174

 
524,445

Operating expenses and other losses (gains), net:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Selling, general and administrative expenses
43,227

 
40,267

 
175,364

 
160,204

Restructuring charges
951

 
5,463

 
6,246

 
9,592

Other losses (gains), net
1,333

 
(2,484
)
 
1,111

 
(1,990
)
Depreciation and amortization
9,664

 
8,435

 
38,213

 
31,499

Goodwill impairment charges
43,493

 

 
253,093

 

Total operating expenses and other losses (gains), net
98,668

 
51,681

 
474,027

 
199,305

Operating income (loss)
(27,128
)
 
8,409

 
(207,456
)
 
74,234

Other income (expense), net:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest expense, net of interest income
(4,802
)
 
(4,004
)
 
(18,613
)
 
(16,274
)
Other income, net
361

 
(39
)
 
3,565

 
1,197

Total other expense, net
(4,441
)
 
(4,043
)
 
(15,048
)
 
(15,077
)
Income (loss) from continuing operations before taxes
(31,569
)
 
4,366

 
(222,504
)
 
59,157

Income tax expense (benefit)
(2,259
)
 
179

 
(51,999
)
 
19,677

Net income (loss) from continuing operations
(29,310
)
 
4,187

 
(170,505
)
 
39,480

Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax
(302
)
 
(33
)
 
388

 
(1,863
)
Net income (loss)
$
(29,612
)
 
$
4,154

 
$
(170,117
)
 
$
37,617

Net earnings (loss) per basic share:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net income (loss) from continuing operations
$
(1.36
)
 
$
0.20

 
$
(7.95
)
 
$
1.87

Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax
(0.02
)
 

 
0.02

 
(0.09
)
Net income (loss)
$
(1.38
)
 
$
0.20

 
$
(7.93
)
 
$
1.78

Net earnings (loss) per diluted share:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net income (loss) from continuing operations
$
(1.36
)
 
$
0.19

 
$
(7.95
)
 
$
1.84

Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax
(0.02
)
 

 
0.02

 
(0.08
)
Net income (loss)
$
(1.38
)
 
$
0.19

 
$
(7.93
)
 
$
1.76

Weighted average shares used in calculating earnings per share:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basic
21,515

 
21,083

 
21,439

 
21,084

Diluted
21,515

 
21,473

 
21,439

 
21,424

Comprehensive income (loss):
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net income (loss)
$
(29,612
)
 
$
4,154

 
$
(170,117
)
 
$
37,617

Foreign currency translation adjustments, net of tax
(233
)
 
12

 
1,602

 
64

Unrealized (gain) loss on investment, net of tax
6,393

 
1,066

 
4,724

 
(97
)
Unrealized gain on cash flow hedging instruments, net of tax
433

 
90

 
429

 
63

Other comprehensive income
6,593

 
1,168

 
6,755

 
30

Comprehensive income (loss)
$
(23,019
)
 
$
5,322

 
$
(163,362
)
 
$
37,647







HURON CONSULTING GROUP INC.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(In thousands, except share and per share amounts)
(Unaudited)
 
 
December 31,
2017
 
December 31,
2016
Assets
 
 
 
Current assets:
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
$
16,909

 
$
17,027

Receivables from clients, net
101,778

 
94,246

Unbilled services, net
57,618

 
51,290

Income tax receivable
4,039

 
4,211

Prepaid expenses and other current assets
10,951

 
13,308

Total current assets
191,295

 
180,082

Property and equipment, net
45,541

 
32,434

Deferred income taxes, net
16,752

 

Long-term investment
39,904

 
34,675

Other non-current assets
25,375

 
24,814

Intangible assets, net
72,311

 
81,348

Goodwill
645,750

 
799,862

Total assets
$
1,036,928

 
$
1,153,215

Liabilities and stockholders’ equity
 
 
 
Current liabilities:
 
 
 
Accounts payable
$
9,194

 
$
7,273

Accrued expenses and other current liabilities
20,144

 
19,788

Accrued payroll and related benefits
73,698

 
82,669

Accrued contingent consideration for business acquisitions
8,515

 
1,985

Deferred revenues
27,916

 
24,053

Total current liabilities
139,467

 
135,768

Non-current liabilities:
 
 
 
Deferred compensation and other liabilities
20,895

 
24,171

Accrued contingent consideration for business acquisitions, net of current portion
14,313

 
6,842

Long-term debt, net of current portion
342,507

 
292,065

Deferred lease incentives
15,333

 
10,703

Deferred income taxes, net
1,097

 
35,633

Total non-current liabilities
394,145

 
369,414

Commitments and contingencies

 

Stockholders’ equity
 
 
 
Common stock; $0.01 par value; 500,000,000 shares authorized; 24,560,468 and 24,126,118 shares issued at December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively
241

 
235

Treasury stock, at cost, 2,443,577 and 2,408,343 shares at December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively
(121,994
)
 
(113,195
)
Additional paid-in capital
434,256

 
405,895

Retained earnings
180,443

 
351,483

Accumulated other comprehensive income
10,370

 
3,615

Total stockholders’ equity
503,316

 
648,033

Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity
$
1,036,928

 
$
1,153,215








HURON CONSULTING GROUP INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(In thousands)
(Unaudited) 
 
Twelve Months Ended
December 31,
 
2017
 
2016
Cash flows from operating activities:
 
 
 
Net income (loss)
$
(170,117
)
 
$
37,617

Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities:
 
 
 
Depreciation and amortization
50,089

 
46,816

Share-based compensation
14,838

 
16,577

Amortization of debt discount and issuance costs
10,203

 
9,609

Goodwill impairment charge
253,093

 

Allowances for doubtful accounts and unbilled services
3,217

 
4,250

Deferred income taxes
(53,753
)
 
1,189

Gain on sale of business
(931
)
 

Change in fair value of contingent consideration liabilities
1,111

 
(1,990
)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions:
 
 
 
(Increase) decrease in receivables from clients
1,650

 
1,440

(Increase) decrease in unbilled services
(4,332
)
 
2,443

(Increase) decrease in current income tax receivable / payable, net
210

 
(4,410
)
(Increase) decrease in other assets
(366
)
 
11,904

Increase (decrease) in accounts payable and accrued liabilities
3,732

 
(3,144
)
Increase (decrease) in accrued payroll and related benefits
(10,966
)
 
3,044

Increase (decrease) in deferred revenues
2,117

 
3,898

Net cash provided by operating activities
99,795

 
129,243

Cash flows from investing activities:
 
 
 
Purchases of property and equipment, net
(24,402
)
 
(13,936
)
Investment in life insurance policies
(1,826
)
 
(2,035
)
Distributions from life insurance policies
2,889

 

Purchases of businesses, net of cash acquired
(106,915
)
 
(69,133
)
Capitalization of internally developed software costs
(1,370
)
 
(1,086
)
Proceeds from note receivable
1,177

 

Proceeds from sale of business
1,499

 
(446
)
Net cash used in investing activities
(128,948
)
 
(86,636
)
Cash flows from financing activities:
 
 
 
Proceeds from exercise of stock options

 
123

Shares redeemed for employee tax withholdings
(4,846
)
 
(4,953
)
Share repurchases

 
(55,265
)
Proceeds from borrowings under credit facility
277,500

 
200,000

Repayments of debt
(240,745
)
 
(224,000
)
Payments for debt issuance costs
(408
)
 

Payment of contingent consideration liabilities
(2,680
)
 

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities
28,821

 
(84,095
)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash
214

 
78

Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents
(118
)
 
(41,410
)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of the period
17,027

 
58,437

Cash and cash equivalents at end of the period
$
16,909

 
$
17,027




HURON CONSULTING GROUP INC.
SEGMENT OPERATING RESULTS AND OTHER OPERATING DATA
(Unaudited)
 
 
Three Months Ended
December 31,
 
Percent
Increase
(Decrease)
Segment and Consolidated Operating Results (in thousands):
 
2017
 
2016
 
Healthcare:
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenues
 
$
95,648

 
$
101,381

 
(5.7
)%
Operating income
 
$
35,181

 
$
28,674

 
22.7
 %
Segment operating income as a percentage of segment revenues
 
36.8
%
 
28.3
%
 

Education:
 
 
 
 
 

Revenues
 
$
40,279

 
$
38,001

 
6.0
 %
Operating income
 
$
8,546

 
$
6,836

 
25.0
 %
Segment operating income as a percentage of segment revenues
 
21.2
%
 
18.0
%
 

Business Advisory:
 
 
 
 
 

Revenues
 
$
50,000

 
$
38,742

 
29.1
 %
Operating income
 
$
11,710

 
$
6,107

 
91.7
 %
Segment operating income as a percentage of segment revenues
 
23.4
%
 
15.8
%
 

Total Company:
 
 
 
 
 

Revenues
 
$
185,927

 
$
178,124

 
4.4
 %
Reimbursable expenses
 
19,313

 
17,076

 
13.1
 %
Total revenues and reimbursable expenses
 
$
205,240

 
$
195,200

 
5.1
 %
Statements of Operations reconciliation:
 
 
 
 
 

Segment operating income
 
$
55,437

 
$
41,617

 
33.2
 %
Items not allocated at the segment level:
 
 
 
 
 

Other operating expenses
 
28,075

 
27,257

 
3.0
 %
Other losses (gains), net
 
1,333

 
(2,484
)
 
(153.7
)%
Depreciation and amortization
 
9,664

 
8,435

 
14.6
 %
Goodwill impairment charge (1)
 
43,493

 

 
N/M

Total operating income (loss)
 
(27,128
)
 
8,409

 
N/M

Other expense, net
 
4,441

 
4,043

 
9.8
 %
Income (loss) from continuing operations before taxes
 
$
(31,569
)
 
$
4,366

 
N/M

Other Operating Data:
 
 
 
 
 

Number of full-time billable consultants (at period end) (2):
 
 
 
 
 

Healthcare
 
778

 
888

 
(12.4
)%
Education
 
549

 
468

 
17.3
 %
Business Advisory
 
809

 
547

 
47.9
 %
Total
 
2,136

 
1,903

 
12.2
 %
Average number of full-time billable consultants (for the period) (2):
 
 
 
 
 
 
Healthcare
 
769

 
976

 
 
Education
 
543

 
470

 
 
Business Advisory
 
828

 
552

 
 
Total
 
2,140

 
1,998

 
 






HURON CONSULTING GROUP INC.
SEGMENT OPERATING RESULTS AND OTHER OPERATING DATA (CONTINUED)
(Unaudited)
 
 
Three Months Ended December 31,
Other Operating Data (continued):
 
2017
 
2016
Full-time billable consultant utilization rate (3):
 
 
 
 
Healthcare
 
84.5
%
 
72.4
%
Education
 
70.6
%
 
68.7
%
Business Advisory
 
67.2
%
 
74.9
%
Total
 
74.2
%
 
72.2
%
Full-time billable consultant average billing rate per hour (4):
 
 
 
 
Healthcare
 
$
222

 
$
215

Education
 
$
207

 
$
225

Business Advisory
 
$
185

 
$
188

Total
 
$
205

 
$
209

Revenue per full-time billable consultant (in thousands):
 
 
 
 
Healthcare
 
$
84

 
$
69

Education
 
$
65

 
$
69

Business Advisory
 
$
58

 
$
65

Total
 
$
69

 
$
68

Average number of full-time equivalents (for the period) (5):
 
 
 
 
Healthcare
 
207

 
212

Education
 
32

 
41

Business Advisory
 
17

 
24

Total
 
256

 
277

Revenue per full-time equivalent (in thousands):
 
 
 
 
Healthcare
 
$
149

 
$
158

Education
 
$
146

 
$
137

Business Advisory
 
$
125

 
$
116

Total
 
$
147

 
$
151









HURON CONSULTING GROUP INC.
SEGMENT OPERATING RESULTS AND OTHER OPERATING DATA (CONTINUED)
(Unaudited)
 
 
Twelve Months Ended
December 31,
 
Percent
Increase
(Decrease)
Segment and Consolidated Operating Results (in thousands):
 
2017
 
2016
 
Healthcare:
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenues
 
$
356,909

 
$
424,912

 
(16.0
)%
Operating income
 
$
118,761

 
$
147,903

 
(19.7
)%
Segment operating income as a percentage of segment revenues
 
33.3
%
 
34.8
%
 
 
Education:
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenues
 
$
167,908

 
$
149,817

 
12.1
 %
Operating income
 
$
40,318

 
$
38,310

 
5.2
 %
Segment operating income as a percentage of segment revenues
 
24.0
%
 
25.6
%
 
 
Business Advisory:
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenues
 
$
207,753

 
$
151,543

 
37.1
 %
Operating income
 
$
46,600

 
$
29,382

 
58.6
 %
Segment operating income as a percentage of segment revenues
 
22.4
%
 
19.4
%
 
 
Total Company:
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenues
 
$
732,570

 
$
726,272

 
0.9
 %
Reimbursable expenses
 
75,175

 
71,712

 
4.8
 %
Total revenues and reimbursable expenses
 
$
807,745

 
$
797,984

 
1.2
 %
Statements of Operations reconciliation:
 
 
 
 
 
 
Segment operating income
 
$
205,679

 
$
215,595

 
(4.6
)%
Items not allocated at the segment level:
 
 
 
 
 
 
Other operating expenses
 
120,718

 
111,852

 
7.9
 %
Other losses (gains), net
 
1,111

 
(1,990
)
 
N/M

Depreciation and amortization expense
 
38,213

 
31,499

 
21.3
 %
Goodwill impairment charge (1)
 
253,093

 

 
N/M

Total operating income (loss)
 
(207,456
)
 
74,234

 
N/M

Other expense, net
 
15,048

 
15,077

 
(0.2
)%
Income (loss) from continuing operations before taxes
 
$
(222,504
)
 
$
59,157

 
N/M

Other Operating Data:
 
 
 
 
 
 
Number of full-time billable consultants (at period end) (2):
 
 
 
 
 
 
Healthcare
 
778

 
888

 
(12.4
)%
Education
 
549

 
468

 
17.3
 %
Business Advisory
 
809

 
547

 
47.9
 %
Total
 
2,136

 
1,903

 
12.2
 %
Average number of full-time billable consultants (for the period) (2):
 
 
 
 
 
 
Healthcare
 
796

 
998

 
 
Education
 
509

 
437

 
 
Business Advisory
 
740

 
486

 
 
Total
 
2,045

 
1,921

 
 






HURON CONSULTING GROUP INC.
SEGMENT OPERATING RESULTS AND OTHER OPERATING DATA (CONTINUED)
(Unaudited)
 
 
Twelve Months Ended
December 31,
Other Operating Data (continued):
 
2017
 
2016
Full-time billable consultant utilization rate (3):
 
 
 
 
Healthcare
 
78.4
%
 
77.1
%
Education
 
72.8
%
 
70.6
%
Business Advisory
 
71.7
%
 
73.1
%
Total
 
74.5
%
 
74.6
%
Full-time billable consultant average billing rate per hour (4):
 
 
 
 
Healthcare
 
$
206

 
$
210

Education
 
$
213

 
$
219

Business Advisory
 
$
193

 
$
208

Total
 
$
203

 
$
212

Revenue per full-time billable consultant (in thousands):
 
 
 
 
Healthcare
 
$
295

 
$
300

Education
 
$
291

 
$
293

Business Advisory
 
$
268

 
$
293

Total
 
$
284

 
$
297

Average number of full-time equivalents (for the period) (5):
 
 
 
 
Healthcare
 
213

 
203

Education
 
35

 
38

Business Advisory
 
20

 
20

Total
 
268

 
261

Revenue per full-time equivalent (in thousands):
 
 
 
 
Healthcare
 
$
576

 
$
614

Education
 
$
564

 
$
572

Business Advisory
 
$
464

 
$
453

Total
 
$
566

 
$
596

 
(1)
The non-cash goodwill impairment charges are not allocated at the segment level because the underlying goodwill asset is reflective of our corporate investment in the segments. We do not include the impact of goodwill impairment charges in our evaluation of segment performance.
(2)
Consists of full-time professionals who provide consulting services and generate revenues based on the number of hours worked.
(3)
Utilization rate for full-time billable consultants is calculated by dividing the number of hours all full-time billable consultants worked on client assignments during a period by the total available working hours for all of these consultants during the same period, assuming a forty-hour work week, less paid holidays and vacation days.
(4)
Average billing rate per hour for full-time billable consultants is calculated by dividing revenues for a period by the number of hours worked on client assignments during the same period.
(5)
Consists of cultural transformation consultants within the Studer Group solution, which include coaches and their support staff, consultants who work variable schedules as needed by clients, and full-time employees who provide software support and maintenance services to clients.

N/M - Not Meaningful




HURON CONSULTING GROUP INC.
RECONCILIATION OF NET INCOME (LOSS) FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS
TO ADJUSTED EARNINGS BEFORE INTEREST, TAXES, DEPRECIATION AND AMORTIZATION (6) 
(In thousands)
(Unaudited)
 
Three Months Ended
December 31,
 
Twelve Months Ended
December 31,
 
2017
 
2016
 
2017
 
2016
Revenues
$
185,927

 
$
178,124

 
$
732,570

 
$
726,272

Net income (loss) from continuing operations
$
(29,310
)
 
$
4,187

 
$
(170,505
)
 
$
39,480

Add back:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Income tax expense (benefit)
(2,259
)
 
179

 
(51,999
)
 
19,677

Interest expense, net of interest income
4,802

 
4,004

 
18,613

 
16,274

Depreciation and amortization
12,208

 
12,297

 
49,145

 
46,639

Earnings (loss) before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) (6)
(14,559
)
 
20,667

 
(154,746
)
 
122,070

Add back:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Restructuring charges
951

 
5,463

 
6,246

 
9,592

Other losses (gains), net
1,333

 
(2,484
)
 
1,111

 
(1,990
)
Goodwill impairment charges
43,493

 

 
253,093

 

Other non-operating expense (income)
235

 

 
(696
)
 

Foreign currency transaction losses (gains), net
15

 
259

 
(434
)
 
(11
)
Adjusted EBITDA (6)
$
31,468

 
$
23,905

 
$
104,574

 
$
129,661

Adjusted EBITDA as a percentage of revenues (6)
16.9
%
 
13.4
%
 
14.3
%
 
17.9
%



HURON CONSULTING GROUP INC.
RECONCILIATION OF NET INCOME (LOSS) FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS
TO ADJUSTED NET INCOME (LOSS) FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS (6) 
(In thousands, except per share amounts)
(Unaudited)
 
Three Months Ended
December 31,
 
Twelve Months Ended
December 31,
 
2017
 
2016
 
2017
 
2016
Net income (loss) from continuing operations
$
(29,310
)
 
$
4,187

 
$
(170,505
)
 
$
39,480

Weighted average shares – diluted
21,515

 
21,473

 
21,439

 
21,424

Diluted earnings (loss) per share from continuing operations
$
(1.36
)
 
$
0.19

 
$
(7.95
)
 
$
1.84

Add back:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Amortization of intangible assets
8,595

 
8,739

 
35,027

 
33,108

Restructuring charges
951

 
5,463

 
6,246

 
9,592

Other losses (gains), net
1,333

 
(2,484
)
 
1,111

 
(1,990
)
Goodwill impairment charges
43,493

 

 
253,093

 

Non-cash interest on convertible notes
1,998

 
1,906

 
7,851

 
7,488

Other non-operating expense (income)
235

 

 
(696
)
 

Tax effect
(21,195
)
 
(5,354
)
 
(91,557
)
 
(18,942
)
Tax expense related to the enactment of Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017
8,762

 

 
8,762

 

Tax benefit related to "check-the-box" election
20

 

 
(2,728
)
 

Total adjustments, net of tax
44,192

 
8,270

 
217,109

 
29,256

Adjusted net income from continuing operations (6)
$
14,882

 
$
12,457

 
$
46,604

 
$
68,736

Adjusted weighted average shares - diluted (7)
21,738

 
21,473

 
21,627

 
21,424

Adjusted diluted earnings per share from continuing operations (6)
$
0.68

 
$
0.58

 
$
2.15

 
$
3.21

 
(6)
In evaluating the company’s financial performance and outlook, management uses earnings (loss) before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”), adjusted EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA as a percentage of revenues, adjusted net income (loss) from continuing operations, and adjusted diluted earnings (loss) per share from continuing operations, which are non-GAAP measures. Management uses these non-GAAP financial measures to gain an understanding of the company's comparative operating performance (when comparing such results with previous periods or forecasts). These non-GAAP financial measures are used by management in their financial and operating decision making because management believes they reflect the company's ongoing business in a manner that allows for meaningful period-to-period comparisons. Management also uses these non-GAAP financial measures when publicly providing the company's business outlook, for internal management purposes, and as a basis for evaluating potential acquisitions and dispositions. Management believes that these non-GAAP financial measures provide useful information to investors and others in understanding and evaluating Huron’s current operating performance and future prospects in the same manner as management does, if they so choose, and in comparing in a consistent manner Huron’s current financial results with Huron’s past financial results. Investors should recognize that these non-GAAP measures might not be comparable to similarly titled measures of other companies. These measures should be considered in addition to, and not as a substitute for or superior to, any measure of performance, cash flows or liquidity prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States.

(7)
As the company reported a net loss for the three and twelve months ended December 31, 2017, GAAP diluted weighted average shares outstanding equals the basic weighted average shares outstanding for that period. The non-GAAP adjustments described above resulted in adjusted net income from continuing operations for those periods. Therefore, dilutive common stock equivalents have been included in the calculation of adjusted diluted weighted average shares outstanding.



HURON CONSULTING GROUP INC.
RECONCILIATION OF NON-GAAP MEASURES FOR FULL YEAR 2018 OUTLOOK
RECONCILIATION OF NET INCOME
TO ADJUSTED EARNINGS BEFORE INTEREST, TAXES, DEPRECIATION AND AMORTIZATION (8) 
(In millions)
(Unaudited)
 
Year Ending
 
December 31, 2018
 
Guidance Range
 
Low
 
High
Projected revenues - GAAP
$
720.0

 
$
760.0

Projected net income - GAAP
$
23.0

 
$
29.5

Add back:
 
 
 
Income tax expense
9.0

 
13.5

Interest expense, net of interest income
18.5

 
19.0

Depreciation and amortization
36.0

 
36.5

Projected earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) (8) 
86.5

 
98.5

Projected adjusted EBITDA (8)
$
86.5

 
$
98.5

Projected adjusted EBITDA as a percentage of projected revenues (8)
12.0
%
 
13.0
%
RECONCILIATION OF NET INCOME
TO ADJUSTED NET INCOME (8) 
(In millions, except per share amounts)
(Unaudited)
 
Year Ending
 
December 31, 2018
 
Guidance Range
 
Low
 
High
Projected net income - GAAP
$
23.0

 
$
29.5

Projected diluted earnings per share - GAAP
$
1.05

 
$
1.35

Add back:
 
 
 
Amortization of intangible assets
24.0

 
24.0

Non-cash interest on convertible notes
8.0

 
8.0

Tax effect
(8.0
)
 
(8.0
)
Total adjustments, net of tax
24.0

 
24.0

Projected adjusted net income (8) 
$
47.0

 
$
53.5

Projected adjusted diluted earnings per share (8)
$
2.10

 
$
2.40

 
(8)
In evaluating the company’s outlook, management uses projected EBITDA, projected adjusted EBITDA, projected adjusted EBITDA as a percentage of revenues, projected adjusted net income, and projected adjusted diluted earnings per share, which are non-GAAP measures. Management believes that the use of such measures, as supplements to projected net loss and projected diluted loss per share, and other GAAP measures, are useful indicators for investors. These useful indicators can help readers gain a meaningful understanding of the company’s core operating results and future prospects without the effect of non-cash or other one-time items. Investors should recognize that these non-GAAP measures might not be comparable to similarly titled measures of other companies. These measures should be considered in addition to, and not as a substitute for or superior to, any measure of performance, cash flows or liquidity prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States.