2026 US Professional Services Partner Compensation Survey

The 2026 US Professional Services Partner Compensation Survey is a report that focuses on the compensation structures and expectations of partners in the professional services industry. The survey, conducted by Heidrick & Struggles, compiled data from 163 partners across the United States. It reveals that while absolute compensation levels remain robust, with 41% of respondents reporting total cash earnings exceeding $1 million, there is a growing gap between compensation expectations and actual earnings. More than one-third of respondents reported earning less than anticipated, with 12% earning significantly less. The report also discusses trends in compensation structures, noting a shift away from non-cash compensation, which has decreased from 66% in 2022 to 55% in 2026. Additionally, it highlights the pressures faced by early-tenure partners and the impact of firm type and scale on compensation dynamics. The findings suggest a compensation model that is financially strong but may be under strain due to evolving market conditions and expectations.