CHICAGO, April 8, 2014 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Heidrick & Struggles International (Nasdaq:HSII), the premier professional services firm focused on serving the leadership needs of top organizations globally, today named Michael Loiacano to head Heidrick & Struggles' North American Healthcare Services and Managed Care practices.

"A fundamental transformation is underway within healthcare today. Talented leadership will distinguish great companies in this uncertain environment," said Don Biskin, U.S. Life Sciences interim practice manager, Heidrick & Struggles. "Michael has a dynamic understanding of the complex talent issues facing healthcare. There is no doubt that he will further solidify our capacity to deliver top leadership for our healthcare clients."

Loiacano has extensive experience working closely with commercial and government health plans, health systems, and specialty services companies such as behavioral health, life and health management, pharmacy benefit management, and information technology firms. His diverse experience is especially valuable given current industry dynamics which require payers and providers to be increasingly collaborative.

Based in the Chicago office, Loiacano is also a member of the firm's Global Life Sciences and Insurance practices.

Loiacano earned his MBA with concentrations in human resources and management from Loyola University in Chicago and his bachelor's degree from Merrimack College in North Andover, Mass. He currently serves as a trustee for the Allendale Association, as well as a caucus committee member for the City of Lake Forest, Ill.

About Heidrick & Struggles International, Inc.

Heidrick & Struggles International, Inc. (Nasdaq:HSII) is the premier provider of senior-level Executive Search, Culture Shaping and Leadership Consulting services. For 60 years, we have focused on quality service and built strong leadership teams through our relationships with clients and individuals worldwide. Today, Heidrick & Struggles' leadership experts operate from principal business centers in North America, Latin America, Europe and Asia Pacific. For more information about Heidrick & Struggles, please visit www.heidrick.com.

CONTACT: Media Contact: Lia Randazzo
         312.496.1788, lrandazzo@heidrick.com