Posted: 07/05/2025 07:54 am
The Hackett Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: HCKT), a prominent consultancy firm in management consulting services, has seen significant changes in its executive compensation strategies over recent years. Among these, the compensation package of David N. Dungan, Vice Chairman and Chief Operating Officer, stands out prominently in 2024. Dungan's total compensation reached approximately $8.56 million, with the majority of it awarded as stock grants amounting to nearly $7.36 million. This figure marks a substantial increase from his $3.11 million total compensation in 2022, reflecting a strategic emphasis on stock-based incentives aimed at aligning executive performance with shareholder interests^1.
In comparison, Ted A. Fernandez, Chairman and CEO, received a total compensation of $6.08 million in 2021, primarily driven by incentive plan compensation, which accounted for around $3.03 million. A historical look at his compensation from 2020 shows a total package of $1.83 million, highlighting a shift in compensation mix toward performance-based metrics in more recent years^2. Meanwhile, Robert A. Ramirez, CFO, was compensated with $1.38 million in 2021, balancing between salary and stock awards^3.
The Hackett Group’s strategic moves, such as its acquisition of Spend Matters in 2025, signal its commitment to expanding its market intelligence capabilities and enhancing its service offerings^4. This acquisition aligns with recent announcements, including the release of insights into how generative artificial intelligence (Gen AI) aids in redefining HR excellence. The firm’s focus on innovation was also underscored by the Hackett Innovation Awards, which recognized companies that have successfully integrated AI into business processes^5.
Recent market activity reflects this strategic focus, with HCKT shares trading at $25.68, a modest increase of 2.11% from the previous trading day. Although the stock is down from its year-high of $34.02, the company’s financial performance has been robust. The Hackett Group surpassed Q1 2025 earnings expectations, reporting $0.41 per share against a consensus estimate of $0.40, showcasing consistent revenue growth and operational excellence^6.
Overall, The Hackett Group’s executive compensation structure illustrates a strategic pivot toward incentivizing leadership through stock-based compensation and performance metrics. This aligns with the firm’s ongoing efforts to innovate by leveraging AI and expanding operational insights, positioning it for long-term success in the competitive consulting landscape.
1. SEC Filing of 2024 HCKT Compensation Data, [Sec.gov](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1057379/000095017025043233/0000950170-25-043233-index.htm)
2. SEC Filing of 2021 HCKT Compensation Data, [Sec.gov](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1057379/000119312522083989/0001193125-22-083989-index.htm)
3. SEC Filing of 2021 HCKT Compensation Data, [Sec.gov](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1057379/000095017024035239/0000950170-24-035239-index.htm)
4. Business Wire, The Hackett Group Acquires Spend Matters, [Business Wire](https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250516506943/en/The-Hackett-Group%C2%AE-Acquires-Market-Intelligence-Firm-Spend-Matters%E2%84%A2/)
5. Business Wire, 2025 Hackett Innovation Awards, [Business Wire](https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250630486558/en/The-Hackett-Group%C2%AE-Announces-Winners-of-the-2025-Hackett-Innovation-Awards/)
6. Zacks, Hackett Group Tops Q1 Earnings, [Zacks](https://www.zacks.com/stock/news/2463486/hackett-group-hckt-tops-q1-earnings-and-revenue-estimates?cid=CS-STOCKNEWSAPI-FT-tale_of_the_tape|yseop_template_4-2463486)
