HURN Huron Consulting Group Inc

Fourth Quarter 2016 Highlights

• Revenues were $178.1 million in Q4 2016 compared to $185.1 million in Q4 2015.
• Net income from continuing operations was $4.2 million in Q4 2016 compared to $32.5 million in Q4 2015.
• Adjusted EBITDA(6), a non-GAAP measure, was $23.7 million in Q4 2016 compared to $40.0 million in Q4 2015.
• Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations was $0.19 in Q4 2016 compared to $1.44 in Q4 2015.
• Adjusted diluted earnings per share from continuing operations(6), a non-GAAP measure, was $0.58 in Q4 2016 compared to $0.94 in Q4 2015.

Full Year 2016 Highlights and 2017 Guidance

• Revenues for full year 2016 increased 3.9% to $726.3 million compared to $699.0 million for full year 2015.
• Net income from continuing operations for full year 2016 was $39.5 million compared to $61.9 million for full year 2015.
• Adjusted EBITDA(6) for full year 2016 was $128.5 million compared to $139.3 million for full year 2015.
• Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations for full year 2016 was $1.84 compared to $2.74 for full year 2015.
• Adjusted diluted earnings per share from continuing operations(6) for full year 2016 increased 7.4% to $3.21 compared to $2.99 for full year 2015.
• Huron affirms its previous earnings guidance range for full year 2017, including revenue expectations in a range of $750.0 million to $790.0 million.

Global professional services firm Huron (NASDAQ: HURN) today announced financial results from continuing operations for the fourth quarter and full year ended Dec. 31, 2016.

"Our fourth quarter results were disappointing primarily due to continued challenges in our Healthcare segment. While we believe there may be some positive market indications, we continue to expect ongoing softness in the Healthcare business until some of the current uncertainties in the provider market subside," said James H. Roth, chief executive officer and president of Huron. "While we continue to remain cautious about growth in our Healthcare segment, we anticipate solid revenue growth in our Education and Life Sciences and Business Advisory segments in 2017."

FOURTH QUARTER 2016 RESULTS FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS

Revenues for the fourth quarter of 2016 were $178.1 million compared to $185.1 million for the fourth quarter of 2015. Fourth quarter 2016 revenues included $14.5 million from the acquisitions of MyRounding Solutions, LLC, ADI Strategies, Inc., and Healthcare Services Management, Inc., all of which were completed during 2016. Net income from continuing operations was $4.2 million, or $0.19 per diluted share, for the fourth quarter of 2016 compared to $32.5 million, or $1.44 per diluted share, for the same period last year.

Fourth quarter 2016 earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization ("EBITDA")(6) was $20.7 million, or 11.6% of revenues, compared to $48.2 million, or 26.1% of revenues, in the comparable quarter 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 EndedDecember 31, 2016   2015 Amortization of intangible assets $ 8,739 $ 8,011 Restructuring charges $ 5,463 $ 1,752 Other gains $ (2,484 ) $ (10,000 ) Non-cash interest on convertible notes $ 1,906 $ 1,817 Tax effect $ (5,354 ) $ (623 ) Net tax benefit related to "check-the-box" election $ — $ (12,336 )

Adjusted EBITDA(6) was $23.7 million, or 13.3% of revenues, in the fourth quarter of 2016, compared to $40.0 million, or 21.6% of revenues, in the comparable quarter last year. Adjusted net income from continuing operations(6) was $12.5 million, or $0.58 per diluted share, for the fourth quarter of 2016, compared to $21.1 million, or $0.94 per diluted share, for the comparable period in 2015.

The average number of full-time billable consultants(1) increased 8.6% to 1,998 in the fourth quarter of 2016 compared to 1,839 in the same quarter last year. Full-time billable consultant utilization rate(2) was 72.2% during the fourth quarter of 2016 compared to 79.2% during the same period last year. Average billing rate per hour for full-time billable consultants(3) was $209 for the fourth quarter of 2016 compared to $224 for the fourth quarter of 2015. The average number of full-time equivalent professionals(5) was 277 in the fourth quarter of 2016 compared to 259 for the comparable period in 2015.

YEAR-TO-DATE 2016 RESULTS FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS

Revenues for the full year 2016 increased 3.9% to $726.3 million from $699.0 million for the full year 2015. 2016 revenues included $34.5 million of revenues from the acquisitions of MyRounding Solutions, LLC, ADI Strategies, Inc., and Healthcare Services Management, Inc., all of which were completed in 2016, and $19.3 million of incremental revenues due to the full year impact in 2016 of the acquisitions of Studer Holdings, Inc., which was completed mid-first quarter 2015, Rittman Mead Consulting Private Limited, which was completed at the beginning of the third quarter of 2015, and Cloud62, Inc., which was completed at the beginning of the fourth quarter of 2015. Net income from continuing operations for the full year 2016 was $39.5 million, or $1.84 per diluted share, compared to $61.9 million, or $2.74 per diluted share, for the full year 2015.

EBITDA(6) was $120.9 million, or 16.6% of revenues, for the full year 2016, compared to $145.4 million, or 20.8% of revenues, for the full year 2015.

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 EndedDecember 31, 2016   2015 Amortization of intangible assets $ 33,108 $ 28,696 Restructuring charges $ 9,592 $ 3,329 Other gains, net $ (1,990 ) $ (9,476 ) Non-cash interest on convertible notes $ 7,488 $ 7,141 Tax effect $ (18,942 ) $ (11,698 ) Net tax benefit related to "check-the-box" election $ — $ (12,336 )

Adjusted EBITDA(6) was $128.5 million, or 17.7% of revenues, for the full year 2016 compared to $139.3 million, or 19.9% of revenues, for the full year 2015. Adjusted net income from continuing operations(6) was $68.7 million, or $3.21 per diluted share, for the full year 2016 compared to $67.6 million, or $2.99 per diluted share, for the full year 2015.

The average number of full-time billable consultants(1) increased 8.5% to 1,921 for the full year 2016 compared to 1,770 for the full year 2015. Full-time billable consultant utilization rate(2) was 74.6% during the full year 2016 compared to 76.9% during the full year 2015. Average billing rate per hour for full-time billable consultants(3) was $212 for the full year 2016 compared to $222 for the full year 2015. The average number of full-time equivalent professionals(5) was 261 for the full year 2016 compared to 230 for the full year 2015.

OPERATING SEGMENTS

Huron’s results reflect a portfolio of service offerings focused on helping clients address complex business challenges.

The company’s full year 2016 revenues by operating segment as a percentage of total company revenues are as follows: Healthcare (58%); Education and Life Sciences (25%); and Business Advisory (17%). 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, 2016.

ACQUISITIONS

On Jan. 9, 2017, Huron completed its acquisition of Pope Woodhead and Associates Limited, a U.K.-based consulting firm providing market access capabilities to assist clients in developing value propositions for innovative medicines and technologies. The acquisition expands Huron's life sciences strategy expertise and strengthens the company's ability to lead clients through complex payer and regulatory environments across the global life sciences community. The results of operations of Pope Woodhead will be included within the Education and Life Sciences segment from the date of acquisition.

On Feb. 16, 2017, Huron entered into an agreement to acquire Innosight Holdings, LLC, a growth strategy firm focused on helping companies navigate disruptive change and manage strategic transformation. Under the terms of the purchase agreement, Huron will purchase Innosight for $100 million upon closing of the transaction, consisting of $90 million in cash and $10 million in Huron common stock, plus contingent consideration of up to $35 million if specific financial performance targets are met over a four-year period. The cash component of the transaction will be financed with cash on hand and borrowings under Huron's senior secured credit facility. The results of operations of Innosight will be included within the Business Advisory segment. The transaction is expected to close in Mar. 2017, subject to customary closing conditions.

OUTLOOK FOR 2017(7)

Based on currently available information, the company affirmed guidance, which was previously announced on Feb. 16, 2017 and includes Pope Woodhead and Innosight, for full year 2017 revenues before reimbursable expenses in a range of $750.0 million to $790.0 million. The company also anticipates net income in a range of $18.0 million to $25.0 million, and both EBITDA and adjusted EBITDA in a range of $112.5 million to $124.5 million. GAAP diluted earnings per share is expected in a range of $0.85 to $1.15, and non-GAAP adjusted diluted earnings per share is expected in a range of $2.40 to $2.70.

Management will provide a more detailed discussion of its outlook during the company’s earnings conference call webcast.

FOURTH QUARTER 2016 WEBCAST

The company will host a webcast to discuss its financial results today, Feb. 23, 2017, at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time (4:00 p.m. Central Time). The conference call is being webcast by NASDAQ OMX 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 from continuing operations, and adjusted diluted earnings per share from continuing operations, which are non-GAAP measures. Our management uses these non-GAAP financial measures to gain an understanding of our 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 our ongoing business in a manner that allows for meaningful period-to-period comparisons. Management also uses these non-GAAP financial measures when publicly providing our business outlook, for internal management purposes, and as a basis for evaluating potential acquisitions and dispositions. We believe 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 http://www.huronconsultinggroup.com.

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 our current expectations about our 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; failure to complete the pending acquisition of Innosight or any material delay in the timing of such acquisition; 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 our forthcoming Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016, 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. We disclaim 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 EARNINGS AND OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

(In thousands, except per share amounts)

(Unaudited)

    Three Months EndedDecember 31,   Twelve Months EndedDecember 31, 2016   2015 2016   2015 Revenues and reimbursable expenses: Revenues $ 178,124 $ 185,100 $ 726,272 $ 699,010 Reimbursable expenses 17,076   16,747   71,712   70,013   Total revenues and reimbursable expenses 195,200 201,847 797,984 769,023 Direct costs and reimbursable expenses (exclusive of depreciation and amortization shown in operating expenses): Direct costs 114,246 104,467 437,556 401,915 Amortization of intangible assets and software development costs 3,862 4,686 15,140 16,788 Reimbursable expenses 17,002   16,738   71,749   69,932   Total direct costs and reimbursable expenses 135,110   125,891   524,445   488,635   Operating expenses and other operating gains: Selling, general and administrative expenses 40,267 40,646 160,204 157,902 Restructuring charges 5,463 1,752 9,592 3,329 Litigation and other gains, net (2,484 ) (10,000 ) (1,990 ) (9,476 ) Depreciation and amortization 8,435   6,849   31,499   25,135   Total operating expenses and other operating gains 51,681   39,247   199,305   176,890   Operating income 8,409 36,709 74,234 103,498 Other income (expense), net: Interest expense, net of interest income (4,004 ) (4,342 ) (16,274 ) (18,136 ) Other income (expense), net (39 ) 185   1,197   (1,797 ) Total other expense, net (4,043 ) (4,157 ) (15,077 ) (19,933 ) Income from continuing operations before income tax expense 4,366 32,552 59,157 83,565 Income tax expense 179   50   19,677   21,670   Net income from continuing operations 4,187 32,502 39,480 61,895 Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax (33 ) (13,159 ) (1,863 ) (2,843 ) Net income $ 4,154   $ 19,343   $ 37,617   $ 59,052   Net earnings per basic share: Net income from continuing operations $ 0.20 $ 1.47 $ 1.87 $ 2.80 Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax —   (0.59 ) (0.09 ) (0.13 ) Net income $ 0.20   $ 0.88   $ 1.78   $ 2.67   Net earnings per diluted share: Net income from continuing operations $ 0.19 $ 1.44 $ 1.84 $ 2.74 Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax —   (0.58 ) (0.08 ) (0.13 ) Net income $ 0.19   $ 0.86   $ 1.76   $ 2.61   Weighted average shares used in calculating earnings per share: Basic 21,083 22,093 21,084 22,136 Diluted 21,473 22,551 21,424 22,600 Comprehensive income: Net income $ 4,154 $ 19,343 $ 37,617 $ 59,052 Foreign currency translation adjustments, net of tax 12 2,018 64 1,817 Unrealized gain (loss) on investment, net of tax 1,066 300 (97 ) 4,435 Unrealized gain (loss) on cash flow hedging instruments, net of tax 90   240   63   (12 ) Other comprehensive income 1,168   2,558   30   6,240   Comprehensive income $ 5,322   $ 21,901   $ 37,647   $ 65,292  

HURON CONSULTING GROUP INC.

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(In thousands, except share and per share amounts)

(Unaudited)

   

December 31,

2016

 

December 31,

2015

Assets Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ 17,027 $ 58,437 Receivables from clients, net 94,246 85,297 Unbilled services, net 51,290 56,527 Income tax receivable 4,211 406 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 13,308   27,720   Total current assets 180,082 228,387 Property and equipment, net 32,434 28,888 Long-term investment 34,675 34,831 Other non-current assets 24,814 21,045 Intangible assets, net 81,348 94,992 Goodwill 799,862   751,400   Total assets $ 1,153,215   $ 1,159,543   Liabilities and stockholders’ equity Current liabilities: Accounts payable $ 7,273 $ 7,220 Accrued expenses 21,773 24,276 Accrued payroll and related benefits 82,669 80,839 Deferred revenues 24,053   19,086   Total current liabilities 135,768 131,421 Non-current liabilities: Deferred compensation and other liabilities 31,013 23,768 Long-term debt 292,065 307,376 Deferred lease incentives 10,703 9,965 Deferred income taxes, net 35,633   34,688   Total non-current liabilities 369,414 375,797 Commitments and contingencies Stockholders’ equity Common stock; $0.01 par value; 500,000,000 shares authorized; 24,126,118 and 24,775,823 shares issued at December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively 235 241 Treasury stock, at cost, 2,408,343 and 2,249,630 shares at December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively (113,195 ) (103,734 ) Additional paid-in capital 405,895 438,367 Retained earnings 351,483 313,866 Accumulated other comprehensive income 3,615   3,585   Total stockholders’ equity 648,033   652,325   Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $ 1,153,215   $ 1,159,543  

HURON CONSULTING GROUP INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(In thousands)

(Unaudited)

    Twelve Months EndedDecember 31, 2016   2015 Cash flows from operating activities: Net income $ 37,617 $ 59,052 Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: Depreciation and amortization 46,816 58,053 Share-based compensation 16,577 21,487 Amortization of debt discount and issuance costs 9,609 9,329 Allowances for doubtful accounts and unbilled services 4,250 1,025 Deferred income taxes 257 2,765 Loss on sale of business — 2,303 Change in fair value of contingent consideration liabilities (1,990 ) (1,126 ) Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions and divestitures: (Increase) decrease in receivables from clients 1,440 (2,836 ) (Increase) decrease in unbilled services 2,443 31,696 (Increase) decrease in current income tax receivable / payable, net (4,410 ) 8,818 (Increase) decrease in other assets 11,904 (14,742 ) Increase (decrease) in accounts payable and accrued liabilities (3,144 ) 8,805 Increase (decrease) in accrued payroll and related benefits 3,044 (25,221 ) Increase (decrease) in deferred revenues 3,898   4,859   Net cash provided by operating activities 128,311   164,267   Cash flows from investing activities: Purchases of property and equipment, net (13,936 ) (18,571 ) Investment in life insurance policies (2,035 ) (5,804 ) Purchases of businesses, net of cash acquired (69,133 ) (339,966 ) Purchase of convertible debt investment — (15,438 ) Capitalization of internally developed software costs (1,086 ) (866 ) Proceeds from sale of business (446 ) 108,487   Net cash used in investing activities (86,636 ) (272,158 ) Cash flows from financing activities: Proceeds from exercise of stock options 123 — Shares redeemed for employee tax withholdings (4,953 ) (7,154 ) Tax benefit from share-based compensation 932 3,588 Share repurchases (55,265 ) (34,591 ) Proceeds from borrowings under credit facility 200,000 314,000 Repayments on credit facility (224,000 ) (365,750 ) Payments for capital lease obligations —   (48 ) Net cash used in financing activities (83,163 ) (89,955 ) Effect of exchange rate changes on cash 78 (589 ) Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents (41,410 ) (198,435 ) Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of the period 58,437   256,872   Cash and cash equivalents at end of the period $ 17,027   $ 58,437  

HURON CONSULTING GROUP INC.

SEGMENT OPERATING RESULTS AND OTHER OPERATING DATA

(Unaudited)

    Three Months EndedDecember 31,   Percent

Increase

(Decrease)

Segment and Consolidated Operating Results (in thousands): 2016   2015 Healthcare: Revenues $ 101,381 $ 118,263 (14.3 )% Operating income $ 28,674 $ 47,440 (39.6 )% Segment operating income as a percentage of segment revenues 28.3

%

40.1 % Education and Life Sciences: Revenues $ 44,928 $ 43,041 4.4 % Operating income $ 7,826 $ 8,789 (11.0 )% Segment operating income as a percentage of segment revenues 17.4 % 20.4 % Business Advisory: Revenues $ 31,815 $ 23,795 33.7 % Operating income $ 5,117 $ 5,749 (11.0 )% Segment operating income as a percentage of segment revenues 16.1 % 24.2 % All Other: Revenues $ — $ 1 (100.0 )% Operating loss $ — $ (64 ) (100.0 )% Segment operating loss as a percentage of segment revenues N/M N/M Total Company: Revenues $ 178,124 $ 185,100 (3.8 )% Reimbursable expenses 17,076   16,747   2.0 % Total revenues and reimbursable expenses $ 195,200   $ 201,847   (3.3 )% Statements of Earnings reconciliation: Segment operating income $ 41,617 $ 61,914 (32.8 )% Items not allocated at the segment level: Other operating expenses 27,257 28,356 (3.9 )% Litigation and other gains, net (2,484 ) (10,000 ) (75.2 )% Depreciation and amortization expense 8,435   6,849   23.2 % Total operating income 8,409 36,709 (77.1 )% Other expense, net 4,043   4,157   (2.7 )% Income from continuing operations before income tax expense $ 4,366   $ 32,552   (86.6 )% Other Operating Data (excluding All Other): Number of full-time billable consultants (at period end) (1): Healthcare 888 1,037 (14.4 )% Education and Life Sciences 544 478 13.8 % Business Advisory 471   306   53.9 % Total 1,903 1,821 4.5 % Average number of full-time billable consultants (for the period) (1): Healthcare 976 1,063 Education and Life Sciences 547 474 Business Advisory 475   302   Total 1,998 1,839

HURON CONSULTING GROUP INC.

SEGMENT OPERATING RESULTS AND OTHER OPERATING DATA (CONTINUED)

(Unaudited)

    Three Months Ended December 31, Other Operating Data (continued): 2016   2015 Full-time billable consultant utilization rate (2): Healthcare 72.4 % 82.7 % Education and Life Sciences 68.9 % 74.4 % Business Advisory 75.7 % 74.8 % Total 72.2 % 79.2 % Full-time billable consultant average billing rate per hour (3): Healthcare $ 215 $ 223 Education and Life Sciences $ 230 $ 233 Business Advisory $ 176 $ 215 Total $ 209 $ 224 Revenue per full-time billable consultant (in thousands): Healthcare $ 69 $ 82 Education and Life Sciences $ 71 $ 77 Business Advisory $ 62 $ 76 Total $ 68 $ 80 Average number of full-time equivalents (for the period) (5): Healthcare 212 199 Education and Life Sciences 44 51 Business Advisory 21   9   Total 277 259 Revenue per full-time equivalent (in thousands): Healthcare $ 158 $ 155 Education and Life Sciences $ 136 $ 124 Business Advisory $ 115 $ 106 Total $ 151 $ 147

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): 2016   2015 Healthcare: Revenues $ 424,912 $ 446,887 (4.9 )% Operating income $ 147,903 $ 169,560 (12.8 )% Segment operating income as a percentage of segment revenues 34.8 % 37.9 % Education and Life Sciences: Revenues $ 178,978 $ 167,933 6.6 % Operating income $ 43,233 $ 44,216 (2.2 )% Segment operating income as a percentage of segment revenues 24.2 % 26.3 % Business Advisory: Revenues $ 122,382 $ 82,968 47.5 % Operating income $ 24,459 $ 19,263 27.0 % Segment operating income as a percentage of segment revenues 20.0 % 23.2 % All Other: Revenues $ — $ 1,222 (100.0 )% Operating loss $ — $ (1,718 ) (100.0 )% Segment operating loss as a percentage of segment revenues N/M N/M Total Company: Revenues $ 726,272 $ 699,010 3.9 % Reimbursable expenses 71,712   70,013   2.4 % Total revenues and reimbursable expenses $ 797,984   $ 769,023   3.8 % Statements of Earnings reconciliation: Segment operating income $ 215,595 $ 231,321 (6.8 )% Items not allocated at the segment level: Other operating expenses 111,852 112,164 (0.3 )% Litigation and other gains, net (1,990 ) (9,476 ) (79.0 )% Depreciation and amortization expense 31,499   25,135   25.3 % Total operating income 74,234 103,498 (28.3 )% Other expense, net 15,077   19,933   (24.4 )% Income from continuing operations before income tax expense $ 59,157   $ 83,565   (29.2 )% Other Operating Data (excluding All Other): Number of full-time billable consultants (at period end) (1): Healthcare 888 1,037 (14.4 )% Education and Life Sciences 544 478 13.8 % Business Advisory 471   306   53.9 % Total 1,903 1,821 4.5 % Average number of full-time billable consultants (for the period) (1): Healthcare 998 1,085 Education and Life Sciences 514 442 Business Advisory 409   243   Total 1,921 1,770

HURON CONSULTING GROUP INC.

SEGMENT OPERATING RESULTS AND OTHER OPERATING DATA (CONTINUED)

(Unaudited)

    Twelve Months Ended December 31, Other Operating Data (continued): 2016   2015 Full-time billable consultant utilization rate (2): Healthcare 77.1 % 77.9 % Education and Life Sciences 69.8 % 75.5 % Business Advisory 74.5 % 75.0 % Total 74.6 % 76.9 % Full-time billable consultant average billing rate per hour (3): Healthcare $ 210 $ 217 Education and Life Sciences $ 229 $ 231 Business Advisory (4) $ 194 $ 228 Total $ 212 $ 222 Revenue per full-time billable consultant (in thousands): Healthcare $ 300 $ 313 Education and Life Sciences $ 303 $ 325 Business Advisory $ 280 $ 328 Total $ 297 $ 318 Average number of full-time equivalents (for the period) (5): Healthcare 203 179 Education and Life Sciences 41 43 Business Advisory 17   8   Total 261 230 Revenue per full-time equivalent (in thousands): Healthcare $ 614 $ 604 Education and Life Sciences $ 564 $ 574 Business Advisory $ 456 $ 408 Total $ 596 $ 591

_________________

(1)   Consists of our full-time professionals who provide consulting services and generate revenues based on the number of hours worked. (2) Utilization rate for our full-time billable consultants is calculated by dividing the number of hours all of our 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. (3) Average billing rate per hour for our 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. (4) The Business Advisory segment includes our India Enterprise Solutions and Analytics practice, formerly known as Rittman Mead Consulting Private Limited, a business that we acquired in July 2015. Absent the impact of our India Enterprise Solutions and Analytics practice, the average billing rate per hour for Business Advisory for the twelve months ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 would have been $225 and $256, respectively. (5) Consists of cultural transformation consultants within our Studer Group solution, which include coaches and their support staff, consultants who work variable schedules as needed by our clients, and full-time employees who provide software support and maintenance services to our clients.

N/M - Not meaningful

HURON CONSULTING GROUP INC.

RECONCILIATION OF NET INCOME FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS

TO ADJUSTED EARNINGS BEFORE INTEREST, TAXES, DEPRECIATION AND AMORTIZATION (6)

(In thousands)

(Unaudited)

    Three Months EndedDecember 31,   Twelve Months EndedDecember 31, 2016   2015 2016   2015 Revenues $ 178,124   $ 185,100   $ 726,272   $ 699,010   Net income from continuing operations $ 4,187 $ 32,502 $ 39,480 $ 61,895 Add back: Income tax expense 179 50 19,677 21,670 Interest and other expenses 4,043 4,157 15,077 19,933 Depreciation and amortization 12,297   11,535   46,639   41,923   Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) (6) 20,706 48,244 120,873 145,421 Add back: Restructuring charges 5,463 1,752 9,592 3,329 Litigation and other gains, net (2,484 ) (10,000 ) (1,990 ) (9,476 ) Adjusted EBITDA (6) $ 23,685   $ 39,996   $ 128,475   $ 139,274   Adjusted EBITDA as a percentage of revenues (6) 13.3 % 21.6 % 17.7 %   19.9 %

RECONCILIATION OF NET INCOME FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS

TO ADJUSTED NET INCOME FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS (6)

(In thousands, except per share amounts)

(Unaudited)

    Three Months EndedDecember 31,   Twelve Months EndedDecember 31, 2016   2015 2016   2015 Net income from continuing operations $ 4,187   $ 32,502   $ 39,480   $ 61,895   Weighted average shares – diluted 21,473 22,551 21,424 22,600 Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations $ 0.19   $ 1.44   $ 1.84   $ 2.74   Add back: Amortization of intangible assets 8,739 8,011 33,108 28,696 Restructuring charges 5,463 1,752 9,592 3,329 Litigation and other gains, net (2,484 ) (10,000 ) (1,990 ) (9,476 ) Non-cash interest on convertible notes 1,906 1,817 7,488 7,141 Tax effect (5,354 ) (623 ) (18,942 ) (11,698 ) Net tax benefit related to "check-the-box" election —   (12,336 ) —   (12,336 ) Total adjustments, net of tax 8,270   (11,379 ) 29,256   5,656   Adjusted net income from continuing operations (6) $ 12,457   $ 21,123   $ 68,736   $ 67,551   Adjusted diluted earnings per share from continuing operations (6) $ 0.58   $ 0.94   $ 3.21   $ 2.99  

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(6)   In evaluating the company’s financial performance and outlook, management uses earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”), adjusted EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA as a percentage of revenues, adjusted net income from continuing operations, and adjusted diluted earnings per share from continuing operations, which are non-GAAP measures. Our management uses these non-GAAP financial measures to gain an understanding of our 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 our ongoing business in a manner that allows for meaningful period-to-period comparisons. Management also uses these non-GAAP financial measures when publicly providing our business outlook, for internal management purposes, and as a basis for evaluating potential acquisitions and dispositions. We believe 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.

HURON CONSULTING GROUP INC.

RECONCILIATION OF NON-GAAP MEASURES FOR FULL YEAR 2017 OUTLOOK

 

RECONCILIATION OF NET INCOME

TO ADJUSTED EARNINGS BEFORE INTEREST, TAXES, DEPRECIATION AND AMORTIZATION (7)

(In millions)

(Unaudited)

    Year Ending December 31, 2017 Guidance Range Low   High Projected revenues - GAAP $ 750.0   $ 790.0   Projected net income - GAAP $ 18.0 $ 25.0 Add back: Income tax expense 13.0 18.0 Interest expense 18.5 18.5 Depreciation and amortization 63.0   63.0   Projected earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) (7) 112.5 124.5 Add back: Restructuring charges — — Other gains, net —   —   Projected adjusted EBITDA (7) $ 112.5   $ 124.5   Projected adjusted EBITDA as a percentage of projected revenues (7) 15.0 % 15.8 %

RECONCILIATION OF NET INCOME

TO ADJUSTED NET INCOME (7)

(In millions, except per share amounts)

(Unaudited)

  Year Ending December 31, 2017 Guidance Range Low   High Projected net income - GAAP $ 18.0   $ 25.0   Projected diluted earnings per share - GAAP $ 0.85   $ 1.15   Add back: Amortization of intangible assets 47.0 47.0 Restructuring charges — — Other gains, net — — Non-cash interest on convertible notes 8.0 8.0 Tax effect (21.0 ) (21.0 )

Total adjustments, net of tax

34.0   34.0   Projected adjusted net income (7) $ 52.0   $ 59.0   Projected adjusted diluted earnings per share (7) $ 2.40   $ 2.70  

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(7)   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 income and projected diluted earnings 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.

View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20170223006291/en/

HuronMEDIA CONTACTSarah McHugh312-880-2624smchugh@huronconsultinggroup.comorINVESTOR CONTACTJohn D. Kelly312-583-8722investor@huronconsultinggroup.com