CHICAGO, Oct. 15, 2013 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Heidrick & Struggles International (Nasdaq:HSII), the premier professional services firm focused on serving the leadership needs of top organizations globally, is pleased to announce that Stephen W. Beard, its General Counsel and Chief Administrative Officer, is one of 45 local business executives to be featured in Chicago United's newest Business Leaders of Color (BLC) publication.

The publication highlights exceptional corporate and civic leaders who currently serve, or are ready to contribute, as board directors for Fortune 1,000 companies. The Chicago United Business Leaders of Color are recognized as individuals who, in the face of complex global economies, have combined vision with the ability to execute on strategies. These leaders were selected from more than 110 exceptionally qualified nominees.

Chicago United is an advocacy organization that promotes multiracial leadership in business to advance parity in economic opportunity. It has presented the Business Leaders of Color publication biennially since 2003. Past BLC members include First Lady Michelle Obama; Valerie B. Jarrett, senior advisor to President Barack Obama and Don Thompson, chief executive officer of McDonald's Corp.

Beard is a member of the firm's Executive Committee and as General Counsel is responsible for managing the firm's legal, regulatory and policy matters globally. As Chief Administrative Officer he has responsibility for the company's Human Resources, Marketing and Corporate Development functions. Beard also serves as Chairman of the City of Chicago's Board of Ethics.

"Chicago United is proud to have showcased 224 board-ready candidates biennially between 2003 and 2011," said Gloria Castillo, president and CEO of Chicago United. "During this time, these men and women have rendered service in 135 corporate directorships. It is a remarkable record and we anticipate many of the 2013 BLC will join the ranks of their predecessors."

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.

About Chicago United

Chicago United is an advocacy organization that promotes multiracial leadership in business to advance parity in economic opportunity. Chicago United supports the business community's need to maximize the use of corporate and entrepreneurial talent and brings together diverse senior business leaders to break through barriers to realize the benefits of diversity and inclusion. Chicago United is the premiere business membership organization creating an environment where racially diverse CEOs and executive level managers can share common experiences to promote multi-racial leadership in governance, management, and business partnerships. It delivers best practices for diversity practitioners and fosters relationships among leaders who share common values.

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