CHICAGO, Nov. 20, 2013 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Heidrick & Struggles International (Nasdaq:HSII), the premier professional services firm focused on serving the leadership needs of top organizations globally, today announced that Heidi Rustin has joined the firm as a Consumer Markets Practice Partner based in the New York office. Rustin is one of several Consumer Markets Practice hires since the start of the year – with key appointments taking place in London, Frankfurt, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Mumbai and Sao Paolo in addition to New York.

"Our Practice has seen consistent, notable progress in 2013, and Heidi's addition just strengthens an already dynamic New York team," said Mary Saxon, Global Sector Leader – Retail. "Having worked with Heidi previously, I can attest that her depth and breadth of industry knowledge, deep connections and collaborative style will make her a great addition to our firm. However, it's her commitment to client service that will earn her the trust and respect of our distinguished clients around the globe."

Guy Cote, Regional Managing Partner, Americas, Consumer Markets Practice, added, "Our firm has a long history of working with some of the most prestigious consumer brands. Heidi brings our Americas team an infectious energy – and her experience creates immediate opportunities to provide tremendous value to current and future clients."

Rustin brings more than 13 years of experience in the fashion, luxury and retail sectors as well as cross-functional expertise in marketing and sales, finance, merchandising and general management. Previous to Heidrick & Struggles, she worked at two boutique competitors serving as Partner at one for six years. Prior to entering Executive Search, Rustin spent 15 years in publishing and advertising, where she focused on luxury goods and fashion. In her last publishing role, she was the Fashion and Beauty Manager for Condé Nast's House & Garden Magazine. Rustin also spent 12 years at Art & Auction Magazine as Advertising Director and Associate Publisher.

Rustin holds a BFA degree from San Diego State University where she studied environmental design and art history.

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: Jennifer Nelson
         +1 (404) 682.7373
         jnelson@heidrick.com