KELLY SERVICES INC (KELYA) FY 2024 MD&A

ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS.

Executive Overview

While the challenging staffing market dynamics that developed in 2023 continued into 2024, we have remained focused on capturing a greater share of growth where it exists and converting a greater share of our revenue to bottom-line growth by continuing to enhance efficiency and focus across the Company.

We continue to build on the goals of our transformation activities and the aggressive actions we took in 2023 to improve Kelly’s profitability and accelerate growth over the long term. Our business unit and enterprise function teams, together with the Transformation Management Office, continue to make progress on multiple initiatives to drive organizational efficiency and effectiveness.

We are also committed to finding new avenues of growth. This includes a refreshed go-to-market strategy with a comprehensive approach to delivering the full suite of Kelly solutions to our large enterprise customers that is intended to capture a greater share of wallet as we move through 2025. We also remain committed to delivering the highest quality of service to all customers regardless of spend or size. In our P&I segment, for example, we have enhanced our local delivery model and rolled out our Kelly Now mobile application across the U.S. to meet the needs of both our clients and our talent.

We completed the sale of our European staffing operations on January 2, 2024 and on June 12, 2024 announced the sale of the Ayers Group, a division of our OCG segment. We move forward with a streamlined operating model focused on North American staffing and solutions and global Managed Service Provider ("MSP") and recruitment process outsourcing ("RPO") solutions.

To further expand our higher-margin, higher-growth specialties, we acquired Motion Recruitment Partners, LLC ("MRP") on May 31, 2024. The acquisition of MRP enhanced the scale and capabilities of Kelly’s staffing and consulting solutions across technology, telecommunications, and government specialties in North America, and RPO solutions globally. In addition, we remained focused on expanding the higher-margin therapy practice in our Education segment, evidenced by the November 2024 acquisition of Children’s Therapy Center ("CTC").

Together these changes represent structural shifts in Kelly’s operations and deliver meaningful improvement to the Company’s growth prospects and EBITDA margin profile, which we expect to continue as we move forward in 2025 and beyond.

Financial Measures

Reported percentage changes were computed based on actual amounts in thousands of dollars.

EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization) and EBITDA margin (EBITDA divided by revenue from services) are measures used for understanding the Company's ability to generate cash flow and for judging overall operating performance. EBITDA measures are non-GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles) measures and are used to supplement measures in accordance with GAAP. Our non-GAAP measures may be calculated differently from those provided by other companies, limiting their usefulness for comparison purposes. Non-GAAP measures should not be considered a substitute for, or superior to, measures of financial performance prepared in accordance with GAAP.

Days sales outstanding ("DSO") represents the number of days that sales remain unpaid for the period being reported. DSO is calculated by dividing average net sales per day (based on a rolling three-month period) into trade accounts receivable, net of allowances at the period end. Although secondary supplier revenues are recorded on a net basis (net of secondary supplier expense), secondary supplier revenue is included in the daily sales calculation in order to properly reflect the gross revenue amounts billed to the customer.

NM (not meaningful) in the following tables is used in place of percentage changes where: the change is in excess of 500%, the change involves a comparison between earnings and loss amounts, or the comparison amount is zero.

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Results of Operations

Total Company

(Dollars in millions)

The total company discussion that follows focuses on 2024 results compared to 2023. For a discussion of total company 2023 results compared to 2022, see "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" in Part II, Item 7 of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023, filed on February 20, 2024.

In the segment level discussions that follow the total company discussion, the comparative results for 2023 and 2022 have been recast to conform to the new structure in which our Mexico operations were transferred to our Professional & Industrial ("P&I") segment following the sale of our EMEA staffing operations and to reflect our updated corporate allocation method.

2024 vs. 2023

Revenue from services decreased 10.4%, which primarily reflects the January 2, 2024 sale of our EMEA staffing operations, partially offset by an increase related to the acquisition of MRP in May 2024. Excluding the impact from the sale and the acquisition, revenue from services increased 0.5%. This increase reflects revenue increases in the Education and Outsourcing & Consulting ("OCG") segments, partially offset by declines in the P&I and Science, Engineering & Technology ("SET") segments. Compared to 2023 and excluding the impact from the sale and acquisition, revenue from staffing services increased 1.7% and revenue from outcome-based services decreased 3.2%. In addition, revenue from talent solutions increased 3.0% and permanent placement revenue decreased 24.2% from the prior year, excluding the impact from the sale and the acquisition.

Gross profit decreased 8.2% largely driven by the sale of our EMEA staffing operations, partially offset by an increase related to the acquisition of MRP. Excluding the impact from the sale and the acquisition, gross profit decreased 4.7%. The gross profit rate increased 0.5 basis points to 20.4% and was favorably impacted by the sale of our EMEA staffing operations and the acquisition of MRP. Excluding the impact from the sale and the acquisition, the gross profit rate declined 110 basis points. The decrease is due primarily to business mix and a decrease in permanent placement revenue. Permanent placement revenue has higher gross profit due to very low direct costs of services and thus has a disproportionate impact on gross profit rates. The gross profit rate decreased in all segments excluding the sale and the acquisition.

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Total selling, general and administrative ("SG&A") expenses decreased 12.4%, including the sale of our EMEA staffing operations and the acquisition of MRP. Excluding these impacts, SG&A expenses decreased 8.6%. Included in SG&A expenses in 2024 and 2023 were $6.1 million and $38.6 million of restructuring and transformation charges, respectively. Actions taken in both periods were a continuation of the actions that were announced in the second quarter of 2023 as part of the comprehensive transformation initiative. In addition, restructuring actions taken in the first quarter of 2023 reflected management undertaking actions to further our cost management efforts in response to the demand levels and reflected a repositioning of our P&I staffing business to better capitalize on opportunities in local markets. SG&A expenses in 2024 also include $17.9 million of transaction-related costs arising from the sale of our EMEA staffing operations and acquisition of MRP, $10.0 million of integration costs related to initiatives to integrate MRP and aligning Company processes and technology, and $2.3 million of executive transition charges. Excluding the impact of the sale and acquisition, as well as transaction, integration, restructuring and executive transition charges—and excluding depreciation and amortization—SG&A expenses decreased 8.5% primarily due to structural workforce reductions as part of our transformation initiatives, as well as proactive resource management and lower variable, performance-based incentive compensation expenses in response to lower revenue volume. Depreciation and amortization represents the total company depreciation and amortization of intangibles, including the amortization of hosted software.

The gain on sale of EMEA staffing operations relates to the completion of the sale in January 2024 in which we recognized a gain of $1.6 million in 2024. The $5.4 million gain on sale of assets in 2024 represents the sale of the Company's Ayers Group in the second quarter of 2024.

Impairment of assets in 2024 represents the impairment of certain right-of-use ("ROU") assets related to our leased headquarters facility. The goodwill impairment charge in 2024 relates to our Softworld reporting unit which delivers technology staffing and workforce services and is included in the SET segment. Changes in internal projections of financial performance due to continued challenging market conditions resulted in a lower estimated fair value for the reporting unit and an impairment charge of $72.8 million. Impairment of assets in 2023 represents the impairment of ROU assets related to an unoccupied office space lease exited in the second quarter.

Loss from operations in 2024 totaled $15.1 million, compared to earnings from operations of $24.3 million in 2023. The decrease is primarily related to the goodwill impairment charge, higher asset impairment charges and the impact of lower revenue compared to the prior year, partially offset by the impact of lower SG&A compared to the prior year, the gain on sale of Ayers Group and the gain on sale of our EMEA staffing operations.

The change in other income (expense), net is primarily the result of an increase in interest expense related to the long-term debt taken on in 2024 in conjunction with the acquisition of MRP.

Income tax benefit was $21.3 million in 2024 compared to an income tax benefit of $11.5 million in 2023. 2024 benefited from lower pretax earnings, which included an $18.5 million tax benefit from the impairment of tax-deductible goodwill. 2023 benefited from recording a $15.0 million benefit on outside basis difference in held for sale assets, offset by a net $4.4 million charge for valuation allowance changes.

Our tax benefit or expense is affected by recurring items, such as the amount of pretax income and its mix by jurisdiction, U.S. work opportunity credits and the change in cash surrender value of non-taxable investments in life insurance policies. It is also affected by discrete items that may occur in any given period but are not consistent from period to period, such as tax law changes or changes in judgment regarding the realizability of deferred tax assets.

The net loss for 2024 was $0.6 million, compared to net earnings of $36.4 million in 2023.

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Operating Results By Segment

(Dollars in millions)

2024 vs. 2023

The decrease in P&I revenue from services was due primarily to a 5.6% decline in staffing services resulting from lower hours volume, partially offset by higher bill rates. Revenue from outcome-based services decreased 1.4% due to lower demand for our call-center solutions, partially offset by higher revenue from other specialties.

The increase in SET revenue from services was driven by the acquisition of MRP in May 2024. Excluding the acquisition, revenue from services decreased 4.5%, primarily due to declines in hours volume in our staffing specialties, partially offset by higher bill rates. Excluding the acquisition, revenues from outcome-based services decreased 5.5%.

The increase in Education revenue from services reflects increased demand for our services as compared to a year ago. Increased demand for our services reflects new customer wins and an increased fill rate related to demand of existing customers.

The increase in OCG revenue from services was driven by increased demand in payroll process outsourcing ("PPO"), partially offset by declines in RPO and MSP.

International reflects the sale of our EMEA staffing operations in January 2024 and the transfer of our Mexico operations to our P&I segment. The P&I segment information for 2023 has been recast to conform to the new structure.

2023 vs. 2022

The decrease in P&I revenue from services was due primarily to a 17.5% decline in staffing services resulting from lower hours volume, partially offset by higher bill rates. Revenue from outcome-based services increased 13.6% due to the expansion of existing customers.

The decrease in SET revenue from services was driven by a decline in staffing services resulting from declines in hours volume in our staffing specialties, partially offset by higher bill rates. Revenues from outcome-based services increased 3.7% and permanent placement fees were down 40.2%.

The increase in Education revenue from services includes the impact of the acquisition of PTS in May 2022. Excluding the acquisition, revenue increased 29.8% reflecting an increased fill rate and an increased demand for our services from existing customers and from net new customer wins.

The decrease in OCG revenue from services includes the revenue from the acquisition of RocketPower in March 2022. Excluding the acquisition, revenue decreased 3.4% due primarily to lower RPO and MSP revenue.

The decrease in International revenue from services was primarily the result of the sale of our Russian operations in July 2022 and lower volume in several geographies, partially offset by favorable foreign currency fluctuations.

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Operating Results By Segment (continued)

(Dollars in millions)

2024 vs. 2023

Gross profit for the P&I segment decreased on lower revenue volume. In comparison to the prior year, the gross profit rate decreased 20 basis points primarily due to declines in permanent placement revenue and business mix which were partially offset by lower employee-related costs.

SET gross profit increased resulting from the acquisition of MRP, partially offset by the decrease in revenue volume in other components of the segment. The gross profit rate increased 120 basis points due to the acquisition of MRP which generates higher gross profit rates. This impact was partially offset by a 40 basis point decrease in the gross profit rate in other components of SET reflecting business mix and lower permanent placement fees, partially offset by lower employee-related costs.

Gross profit for the Education segment increased on higher revenue volume. The gross profit rate decreased 90 basis points due primarily to customer mix, lower permanent placement fees and higher employee-related costs.

OCG gross profit decreased with a decrease in the gross profit rate. The gross profit rate decreased 480 basis points primarily due to a change in business mix within this segment as a result of strong growth in PPO. The unfavorable business mix was primarily driven by declines in revenue in RPO and MSP, which generate higher margins and improving PPO revenue which generates lower margins.

International reflects the sale of our EMEA staffing operations in January 2024 and the transfer of our Mexico operations to our P&I segment. The P&I segment information for 2023 has been recast to conform to the new structure.

2023 vs. 2022

Gross profit for the P&I segment decreased on lower revenue volume combined with a decrease in the gross profit rate. In comparison to the prior year, the gross profit rate decreased 30 basis points. This decrease reflects lower permanent placement income and higher employee-related costs, partially offset by favorable business mix.

SET gross profit decreased on lower revenue volume. The gross profit rate decreased 70 basis points due to lower permanent placement revenues, partially offset by favorable business mix.

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Gross profit for the Education segment increased on higher revenue volume. The gross profit rate decreased 50 basis points due primarily to lower permanent placement fees and unfavorable customer mix, partially offset by lower employee-related costs.

OCG gross profit decreased on lower revenue volume, combined with a decrease in the gross profit rate. The gross profit rate decreased 30 basis points primarily driven by declines in revenue in RPO and MSP, which generate higher margins.

International gross profit decreased primarily as a result of the sale of our Russian operations in July 2022 and the servicing of certain customer programs by OCG in 2023. Partially offsetting these impacts was improving gross profit primarily driven by higher revenue volume in Portugal and Germany as well as favorable foreign currency fluctuations.

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Operating Results By Segment (continued)

(Dollars in millions)

2024 vs. 2023

The decrease in total SG&A expenses excluding depreciation and amortization in P&I includes the impact of restructuring and transformation charges. Excluding restructuring and transformation charges of $0.3 million in 2024 and $6.7 million in 2023, the decrease is 10.9%. The decrease excluding restructuring and transformation charges is primarily due to lower direct salaries as a result of cost management in response to lower revenue volume compared to the prior year, as well as the impact of transformation-related actions. Other segment expenses declined primarily due to lower shared service costs for IT, finance, human resources and legal support and lower facilities and equipment-related costs.

The increase in total SG&A expenses excluding depreciation and amortization in SET is due to the MRP acquisition. Excluding the impact from the acquisition, expenses decreased 9.8% from the prior year primarily due to lower shared service costs which are included in other segment expenses and lower direct salaries reflecting the response to lower revenue volume compared to the prior year, as well as the impact of transformation-related actions.

The increase in total SG&A expenses excluding depreciation and amortization in Education is primarily due to increased direct salaries and other segment expenses as revenue levels increased and were partially offset by the impact of transformation-related actions.

The decrease in total SG&A expenses excluding depreciation and amortization in OCG is due primarily to lower direct salaries expense partially offset by the impact of restructuring charges in 2023. Direct salaries declined as a result of lower incentive compensation expense, as well as the result of transformation-related actions.

International reflects the sale of our EMEA staffing operations in January 2024 and the transfer of our Mexico operations to our P&I segment. The P&I segment information for 2023 has been recast to conform to the new structure.

The decrease in Corporate expenses includes the impact of transaction, integration and executive transition costs. Excluding these impacts, expenses decreased 12.6%. This decrease primarily reflects lower legal settlement costs and employee compensation costs. Transaction, integration and executive transition costs were $21.5 million and restructuring and transformation charges were $5.1 million in 2024. Restructuring and transformation charges were $19.9 million and transaction costs were $6.9 million in 2023.

2023 vs. 2022

The decrease in total SG&A expenses in P&I includes the impact of restructuring charges. Excluding restructuring charges of $6.7 million, the decrease is 13.4%. The decrease excluding restructuring charges is primarily due to lower direct salaries, which includes performance-based compensation expenses due to transformation-related actions and in response to lower revenue volume.

The decrease in total SG&A expenses in SET is primarily due to lower direct salaries as a result of lower performance-based incentive compensation expenses.

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The increase in total SG&A expenses in Education includes the first quarter impact of the acquisition of PTS in May 2022. Excluding the impact of the PTS acquisition, SG&A expenses increased 11.9% from 2022, due primarily to higher direct salaries, which includes performance-based incentive compensation expenses, as headcount has increased as revenues have grown.

The increase in total SG&A expenses in OCG includes the impact of restructuring charges and the first quarter impact of the acquisition of RocketPower in March 2022. Excluding restructuring charges of $3.0 million, the increase was 1.2%. Excluding restructuring charges and the impact of the RocketPower acquisition, SG&A expenses were flat to 2022.

The decrease in total SG&A expenses in International was primarily due to the impact of the sale of our Russian operations in July 2022, partially offset by employee termination costs in 2023 related to the sale of the EMEA staffing operations in the first quarter of 2024 and favorable foreign currency fluctuations.

The increase in Corporate expenses was primarily due to restructuring and transformation charges as well as transaction costs in 2023 related to the sale of the EMEA staffing operations in the first quarter of 2024. Excluding restructuring and transformation charges of $23.0 million and transaction costs of $3.8 million, expenses increased 14.4% year-over-year. The increase excluding these charges is primarily due to higher legal settlement expenses.

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Operating Results By Segment (continued)

(Dollars in millions)

2024 vs. 2023

P&I reported profit increased versus the prior year due primarily to lower SG&A expenses, partially offset by lower revenue and gross profit.

SET reported profit in 2024 includes a $72.8 million goodwill impairment charge related to Softworld and $12.8 million of business unit profit from the acquisition of MRP. Excluding the goodwill impairment and acquisition impacts, the decrease in profit was essentially flat to prior year.

Education reported profit increased versus the prior year primarily due to higher revenue and gross profit.

OCG reported profit increased compared to a year ago due primarily to lower SG&A expenses and an increase in revenue, partially offset by a decline in gross profit.

International reflects the sale of our EMEA staffing operations in January 2024 and the transfer of our Mexico operations to our P&I segment. The P&I segment information for 2023 has been recast to conform to the new structure.

Corporate expenses decreased year-over-year primarily due to lower transformation-related charges, partially offset by higher transaction-related expenses from the sale of our EMEA staffing operations and integration costs related to the acquisition of MRP.

2023 vs. 2022

P&I reported profit decreased versus the prior year primarily due to lower revenue and gross profit, partially offset by lower SG&A expenses.

SET reported profit decreased versus the prior year primarily due to declines in revenue and gross profit, partially offset by lower SG&A expenses.

Education reported profit increased versus the prior year primarily due to higher revenue and gross profit, partially offset by higher SG&A expenses. 2023 results also include the impact of first quarter profit of $3.4 million from PTS acquired in May 2022.

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OCG reported profit in 2023, compared to a loss in 2022. The change was primarily due to the impact of the 2022 $41.0 million charge related to the impairment of goodwill of RocketPower, the impact of a $2.0 million ROU asset impairment charge in the second quarter of 2023, the impact of restructuring charges and the impact of lower revenue and gross profit.

International reported a loss in 2023, compared to profit in 2022. The change was primarily due to the transfer of certain customer programs to Outsourcing & Consulting, the impact of the sale of our Russian operations in 2022 and employee termination costs in 2023 related to the sale of the EMEA staffing operations in the first quarter of 2024.

Corporate expenses increased in 2023 from 2022 primarily due to restructuring and transformation charges of $23.0 million and transaction costs of $3.8 million.

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Results of Operations

Financial Condition

Historically, we have financed our operations through cash generated by operating activities and access to credit markets. Our working capital requirements are primarily generated from temporary employee payroll, which is generally paid weekly or monthly, and customer accounts receivable, which is generally outstanding for longer periods. Since receipts from customers lag payroll payments to temporary employees, working capital requirements increase and operating cash flows may decrease substantially in periods of growth. Conversely, when economic activity slows, working capital requirements may substantially decrease and operating cash flows increase. Such increases dissipate over time if the economic downturn continues for an extended period.

As highlighted in the consolidated statements of cash flows, our liquidity and available capital resources are impacted by four key components: cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, operating activities, investing activities and financing activities.

Cash, Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash

Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash totaled $45.6 million at year-end 2024, compared to $167.6 million, including $33.5 million held for sale, at year-end 2023. As further described below, during 2024, we generated $26.9 million of cash from operating activities, used $361.6 million of cash for investing activities and generated $214.8 million of cash from financing activities.

Operating Activities

In 2024, we generated $26.9 million of net cash from operating activities, as compared to generating $76.7 million in 2023 and using $76.3 million in 2022. The decrease from prior year is primarily due to increased working capital requirements. Net cash used for operating activities in 2022 included $86.8 million of cash outflows related to the repayment of U.S. payroll taxes originally deferred in 2020. In addition, in 2022 we paid $48.4 million of income taxes related to the sale of Persol Holdings common stock.

Trade accounts receivable totaled $1.3 billion at year-end 2024 and $1.2 billion at year-end 2023, excluding $200.9 million held for sale. Global DSO was 59 days for 2024 and 2023, which included receivables held for sale in 2023. Accounts payable and accrued liabilities was $613.8 million at year-end 2024, and decreased $32.3 million from year-end 2023 as a result of a decrease in supplier payables related to our MSP business.

Our working capital position (total current assets less total current liabilities), was $539.0 million at year-end 2024 including the impact of our acquisition of MRP of $71.2 million. Our working capital position at year-end 2023 was $606.7 million or $485.3 million excluding amounts held for sale of $121.4 million. Held for sale amounts were disposed of in the sale of our EMEA staffing operations in 2024. Excluding the impact of the sale and the MRP acquisition in 2024, working capital decreased $17.5 million year-over-year. Working capital decreased from 2023 primarily due to lower cash balances. The current ratio (total current assets divided by total current liabilities) was 1.7 at year-end 2024 and 1.6 at year-end 2023.

Investing Activities

In 2024, we used $361.6 million of net cash for investing activities, compared to using $14.1 million in 2023 and generating $167.5 million in 2022. Included in cash used for investing activities in 2024 is $431.9 million of cash used for the acquisition of MRP in June 2024 and CTC in November 2024, net of cash received, $11.1 million of cash used for capital expenditures, partially offset by $77.1 million of proceeds from the sale of the EMEA staffing operations, net of cash disposed.

Included in cash used for investing activities in 2023 is $15.3 million of cash used for capital expenditures, partially offset by $2.0 million for the receipt of the final payment in connection with an investment that was sold in 2021.

Included in cash generated from investing activities in 2022 is $196.9 million of proceeds from the sale of the investment in Persol Holdings, $119.5 million of proceeds from the sale of almost all of the Company's shares in our equity investment in PersolKelly and $10.1 million of proceeds from the sale of land and other real property. This was partially offset by $58.3 million of cash used for the acquisition of RocketPower in March 2022, net of cash received, $84.8 million of cash used for the acquisition of PTS in May 2022, net of cash received, $12.0 million of cash used for capital expenditures, and $6.0 million of cash disposed from the sale of our operations in Russia in July 2022, net of proceeds.

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Capital expenditures in 2024, 2023 and 2022 primarily related to the Company's IT infrastructure and technology programs.

Financing Activities

In 2024, we generated $214.8 million of cash for financing activities, as compared to using $59.6 million in 2023 and using $50.6 million in 2022. The cash generated from financing activities is driven by the net borrowings of $239.4 million on the Company's credit facilities in connection with the acquisition of MRP and represents the primary driver of the change in cash from 2023 related to financing activities, in addition to a decrease in the purchase of treasury stock. The change in cash used for financing activities from 2022 to 2023 was primarily related to the year-over-year change in the purchase of treasury stock, representing a repurchase program for the buyback of the Company's common shares. In 2024, the buyback of $10.0 million represents repurchases of the Company's Class A common stock compared to $42.2 million in shares repurchased in 2023 and $7.8 million in 2022. In addition, the $27.2 million buyback of common shares in 2022 represents the buyback of the Company's common shares held by Persol Holdings in February 2022.

Dividends paid per common share were $0.30 in 2024 and 2023 and $0.275 in 2022. Payments of dividends are restricted by the financial covenants contained in our debt facilities. Details of this restriction are contained in the Debt footnote in the notes to our consolidated financial statements.

Debt-to-total capital (total debt reported in the consolidated balance sheet divided by total debt plus stockholders’ equity) is a common ratio to measure the relative capital structure and leverage of the Company. Our ratio of debt-to-total capital was 16.2% at year-end 2024. We had no debt outstanding at year-end 2023.

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Liquidity

We expect to meet our ongoing short-term and long-term cash requirements principally through cash generated from operations, available cash and equivalents, securitization of customer receivables and committed unused credit facilities. The credit facilities, which were amended in the second quarter of 2024, now include an accordion feature which allows us to increase our combined borrowing capacity by $250.0 million as discussed in the Debt footnote in the notes to our consolidated financial statements. Additional funding sources could include additional bank facilities or sale of non-core assets. To meet significant cash requirements related to our nonqualified retirement plan, we may utilize proceeds from Company-owned life insurance policies.

We have historically managed our cash and debt closely to optimize our capital structure. As our cash balances build, we tend to pay down debt as appropriate, unless it is needed for organic or inorganic investments that align with our overall growth strategy. Conversely, when working capital needs grow, we tend to use corporate cash and cash available in the global cash pooling arrangement (the "Cash Pool") first, and then access our borrowing facilities. We expect our working capital requirements to increase if demand for our services increases.

We assess and monitor our liquidity and capital resources globally. We use the Cash Pool, intercompany loans, dividends, capital contributions, redemptions and local lines of credit to meet funding needs and allocate our capital resources among our various subsidiaries. We periodically review our foreign subsidiaries’ cash balances and projected cash needs. As part of those reviews, we may identify cash that we feel should be repatriated to optimize the Company’s overall capital structure. As of year-end 2024, these reviews have not resulted in specific plans to repatriate a majority of our international cash balances. Following the sale of our EMEA staffing operations completed in the first quarter of 2024, discussed below, the Company continues to provide MSP, RPO and Functional Service Provider solutions in the EMEA region. Therefore, we expect much of our remaining international cash will be needed to fund working capital growth in our local operations.

On January 2, 2024, the Company completed the sale of its EMEA staffing operations to Gi Group Holdings S.P.A. and received cash proceeds of $110.6 million, or $77.1 million net of cash disposed. The Company expects to receive additional cash proceeds related to the sale to reflect the cash-free, debt-free transaction basis, as well as working capital and other adjustments. The Company will not receive any proceeds from the contingent consideration opportunity associated with the transaction. As of year-end 2024, the Company has recorded a net receivable of $16.4 million. The Company is actively reconciling the receivable in accordance with the purchase agreement and expects it to be settled upon completion of this process. The Company entered into foreign currency forward contracts to manage the foreign currency risk associated with the transaction, which were settled during 2024. See the Acquisitions and Dispositions footnote and the Fair Value Measurements footnote in the notes to our consolidated financial statements for more details.

On May 31, 2024, the Company indirectly acquired 100% of the equity interests in MRP for a purchase price of $425.0 million. Under terms of the agreement, the purchase price was adjusted for estimated cash held by MRP at the closing date and estimated working capital adjustments, resulting in the Company paying cash of $440.0 million, funded with cash on hand and available credit facilities. Per the terms of the agreement, there was an earnout with a maximum potential cash payment of $60.0 million due to the seller in the second quarter of 2025. In the fourth quarter of 2024, the initial fair value of the earnout was written down to zero. See the Acquisitions and Dispositions footnote and the Fair Value Measurements footnote in the notes to our consolidated financial statements for more details.

On November 13, 2024, Kelly Services USA, LLC ("KSU"), a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company, acquired 100% of the issued and outstanding limited liability company interests of CTC. Under terms of the purchase agreement, the purchase price of $3.3 million was adjusted for cash held by CTC at the closing date and estimated working capital adjustments, resulting in the Company paying cash of $3.1 million. See the Acquisitions and Dispositions footnote in the notes to our consolidated financial statements for more details.

At year-end 2024, we had $110.0 million of available capacity on our $150.0 million revolving credit facility and $4.5 million of available capacity on our $250.0 million securitization facility. The revolving credit facility carried $40.0 million of long-term borrowings on the term benchmark line of credit. The securitization facility carried $199.4 million of long-term borrowings and $46.1 million of standby letters of credit related to workers’ compensation. On July 17, 2024, we entered into interest rate swaps that effectively locked in the variable Secured Overnight Financing Rate ("SOFR") component of our interest rate for a portion of the long-term borrowings on the Securitization Facility. As of year-end 2024, the Company recorded a liability totaling $0.4 million related to the mark-to-market fair value change of the interest rate swaps. See the Fair Value Measurements footnote and the Debt footnote in the notes to our consolidated financial statements for more details.

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Together, the revolving credit and securitization facilities provide the Company with committed funding capacity that may be used for general corporate purposes subject to financial covenants and restrictions. We believe our cash flow from operations, the availability of liquidity under our credit facilities, including the accordion feature which allows us to increase our borrowing capacity, and our ability to access capital from financial markets will be sufficient to meet our anticipated cash requirements, while maintaining sufficient liquidity for normal operating purposes. Throughout 2024 and as of the 2024 year end, we met the debt covenants related to our revolving credit facility and securitization facility.

At year-end 2024, we had additional unsecured, uncommitted short-term local credit facilities totaling $3.1 million, under which we had no borrowings. Details of our debt facilities as of the 2024 year end are contained in the Debt footnote in the notes to our consolidated financial statements.

We repurchased $10.0 million of the Company's Class A common stock in fiscal 2024 pursuant to the $50.0 million share repurchase program, which was approved by the Company's board of directors in November 2024. A total of $40.0 million remains available under the share repurchase program as of year-end 2024.

We monitor the credit ratings of our banking partners on a regular basis and have regular discussions with them. Based on our reviews and communications, we believe the risk of one or more of our banks not being able to honor commitments is insignificant. We also review the ratings and holdings of our money market funds and other investment vehicles regularly to ensure high credit quality and access to our invested cash.

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Contractual Obligations and Commercial Commitments

In addition to our discussion of liquidity and capital resources, consideration should also be given to the following contractual obligations:

•Long-term debt - The Company maintains a revolving credit facility and securitization facility as discussed above in Liquidity. Further details regarding these facilities, including terms, rates, and conditions, can be found in the Debt footnote in the notes to our consolidated financial statements.

•Leases - The Company has operating leases for headquarters and field offices and various equipment. Our leases generally have remaining lease terms of one year to 10 years. As of December 29, 2024, we have lease payment obligations of $76.1 million, with $15.5 million payable within the next 12 months. See our Leases footnote in the notes to our consolidated financial statements for further information.

•Accrued workers compensation - The Company has a combination of insurance and self-insurance contracts in the U.S. under which it bears the first $1.0 million of risk per accident. As of December 29, 2024, the accrual for workers' compensation claims, net of related receivables, was $44.4 million, with $19.0 million payable within the next 12 months. Management utilizes actuarial methods to estimate the future cash payments for these claims, including an allowance for incurred-but-not-reported claims. Further details can be found in the Summary of Significant Accounting Policies footnote in the notes to our consolidated financial statements.

•Accrued retirement benefits - The Company provides nonqualified retirement plans for officers and certain other employees. As of December 29, 2024, the value of our obligations under these plans are $260.5 million, with $20.8 million payable within the next 12 months. The timing of payments related to the plans vary based on individual elections and specific plan provisions. See the Retirement Benefits footnote in the notes to our consolidated financial statements for further information.

•Purchase obligations - Our purchase obligations represent unconditional commitments relating primarily to technology services and online tools which we expect to utilize generally within the next three fiscal years, in the ordinary course of business. As of December 29, 2024, the value of our non-cancelable unconditional purchase obligations is $72.5 million, with $34.5 million expected to be paid within the next 12 months.

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Critical Accounting Estimates

We prepare our consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. In this process, it is necessary for us to make certain assumptions and related estimates affecting the amounts reported in the consolidated financial statements and the attached notes. Actual results can differ from assumed and estimated amounts.

Critical accounting estimates are those that we believe require the most difficult, subjective or complex judgments, often as a result of the need to make estimates about the effect of matters that are inherently uncertain. We base our estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying value of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Judgments and uncertainties affecting the application of those estimates may result in materially different amounts being reported under different conditions or using different assumptions. We consider the following estimates to be most critical in understanding the judgments involved in preparing our consolidated financial statements.

Workers’ Compensation

In the U.S., we have a combination of insurance and self-insurance contracts under which we effectively bear the first $1.0 million of risk per single accident. There is no aggregate limitation on our per-accident exposure under these insurance and self-insurance programs. We establish accruals for workers’ compensation utilizing actuarial methods to estimate the undiscounted future cash payments that will be made to satisfy the claims, including an allowance for incurred-but-not-reported claims. We retain an independent consulting actuary to establish ultimate loss forecasts for the current and prior accident years of our insurance and self-insurance programs. The consulting actuary establishes loss development factors and loss rates, based on our historical claims experience as well as industry experience, and applies those factors to current claims information to derive an estimate of our ultimate claims liability. In preparing the estimates, the consulting actuary may consider factors such as the nature, frequency and severity of the claims; reserving practices of our third-party claims administrators; performance of our medical cost management and return to work programs; changes in our territory and business line mix; and current legal, economic and regulatory factors such as industry estimates of medical cost trends. Where appropriate, multiple generally accepted actuarial techniques are applied and tested in the course of preparing the loss forecast. We use the ultimate loss forecasts, as developed by the consulting actuary, to establish total expected program costs for each accident year by adding our estimates of non-loss costs such as claims handling fees and excess insurance premiums. When claims exceed the applicable loss limit or self-insured retention and realization of recovery of the claim from existing insurance policies is deemed probable, we record a receivable from the insurance company for the excess amount.

We evaluate the accrual quarterly and make adjustments as needed. The ultimate cost of these claims may be greater than or less than the established accrual. While we believe that the recorded amounts are reasonable, there can be no assurance that changes to our estimates will not occur due to limitations inherent in the estimation process. In the event we determine that a smaller or larger accrual is appropriate, we would record a credit or a charge to cost of services in the period in which we made such a determination. The accrual for workers’ compensation, net of related receivables which are included in prepaid expenses and other current assets and other assets in the consolidated balance sheet, was $44.4 million and $43.6 million at year-end 2024 and 2023, respectively.

Business Combinations

We account for business combinations using the acquisition method of accounting, in which the purchase price is allocated for assets acquired and liabilities assumed and recorded at the estimated fair values at the date of acquisition. Any excess of the purchase price over the estimated fair values of the net assets acquired is recorded as goodwill. Management is required to make significant assumptions and estimates in determining the fair value of the assets acquired, particularly intangible assets. Purchased intangible assets are primarily comprised of acquired trade names and customer relationships that are recorded at fair value at the date of acquisition. We utilize third-party valuation specialists to assist us in the determination of the fair value of the intangibles. The fair value of trade name intangibles is determined using the relief-from-royalty method, which relies on the use of estimates and assumptions about expected future revenue growth rates, royalty rates and discount rates. The fair value of customer relationship intangibles is determined using the multi-period excess earnings method, which relies on the use of estimates and assumptions about expected future revenue growth rates, customer attrition rates, profit margins and discount rates. Determining the useful lives of intangible assets also requires judgment and are inherently uncertain. There is a measurement period of up to one year in which to finalize the fair value determinations and preliminary fair value estimates may be revised if new information is obtained during this period.

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Income Taxes

Income tax expense is based on expected income and statutory tax rates in the various jurisdictions in which we operate. Judgment is required in determining our income tax expense.

Our effective tax rate includes the impact of accruals and changes to accruals that we consider appropriate, as well as related interest and penalties. A number of years may lapse before a particular matter, for which we have or have not established an accrual, is audited and finally resolved. While it is often difficult to predict the final outcome or the timing of resolution of any particular tax matter, we believe that our accruals are appropriate under generally accepted accounting principles. Favorable or unfavorable adjustments of the accrual for any particular issue would be recognized as an increase or decrease to our income tax expense in the period of a change in facts and circumstances. Our current tax accruals are presented in income and other taxes in the consolidated balance sheet and long-term tax accruals are presented in other long-term liabilities in the consolidated balance sheet.

Tax laws require items to be included in the tax return at different times than the items are reflected in the consolidated financial statements. As a result, the income tax expense reflected in our consolidated financial statements is different than the liability reported in our tax return. Some of these differences are permanent, which are not deductible or taxable on our tax return, and some are temporary differences, which give rise to deferred tax assets and liabilities. We establish valuation allowances for our deferred tax assets when the amount of expected future taxable income is not likely to support the use of the deduction or credit. Our net deferred tax asset is recorded using currently enacted tax laws, and may need to be adjusted in the event tax laws change.

The U.S. work opportunity credit is allowed for wages earned by employees in certain targeted groups. The actual amount of creditable wages in a particular period is estimated, since the credit is only available once an employee reaches a minimum employment period and the employee’s inclusion in a targeted group is certified by the applicable state. As these events often occur after the period the wages are earned, judgment is required in determining the amount of work opportunity credits accrued for in each period. We evaluate the accrual regularly throughout the year and make adjustments as needed.

Goodwill

We test goodwill for impairment annually and whenever events or circumstances make it more likely than not that an impairment may have occurred. GAAP requires that goodwill be tested for impairment at a reporting unit level. For segments with a goodwill balance, we determine if our reporting units are the same as our operating and reportable segments based on our organizational structure or one level below our operating segments (the component level).

We may first use a qualitative assessment ("step zero") for the annual impairment test if we have determined that it is more likely than not that the fair value for one or more reporting units is greater than their carrying value. In conducting the qualitative assessment, we assess the totality of relevant events and circumstances that affect the fair value or carrying value of the reporting unit. Such events and circumstances may include macroeconomic conditions, industry and market conditions, cost factors, overall financial performance, entity-specific events and events affecting a reporting unit.

If we elect to forgo the qualitative assessment for a reporting unit, goodwill is tested for impairment by comparing the estimated fair value of a reporting unit to its carrying value ("step one"). If the estimated fair value of a reporting unit exceeds the carrying value of the net assets assigned to a reporting unit, goodwill is not considered impaired and no further testing is required. If the carrying value of the net assets assigned to a reporting unit exceeds the estimated fair value of a reporting unit, goodwill is deemed impaired and is written down to the extent of the difference.

For the step one quantitative test, we determine the fair value of our reporting units using the income approach. Under the income approach, estimated fair value is determined based on estimated future cash flows discounted by an estimated market participant weighted-average cost of capital, which reflects the overall level of inherent risk of the reporting unit being measured. Estimated future cash flows are based on our internal projection model and reflects management’s outlook for the reporting units. Assumptions and estimates about future cash flows and discount rates are complex and often subjective. They can be affected by a variety of factors, including external factors such as industry and economic trends, and internal factors such as changes in our business strategy and our internal forecasts. Our analysis used significant assumptions by reporting unit, including: expected future revenue growth rates, profit margins and discount rates.

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The goodwill resulting from the acquisition of Softworld during the second quarter of 2021 was allocated to the SET reportable segment and Softworld was deemed to be a separate reporting unit. The goodwill resulting from the acquisition of PTS during the second quarter of 2022 was allocated to the Education reportable segment and PTS was deemed to be a separate reporting unit. The goodwill resulting from the acquisition of RocketPower during the first quarter of 2022 was allocated to the OCG reportable segment and RocketPower was deemed to be a separate reporting unit, which was fully impaired by year-end 2022.

The goodwill resulting from the acquisition of MRP in the second quarter of 2024 was allocated to the SET reportable segment and was deemed to be a separate reporting unit. The goodwill resulting from the acquisition of CTC in the fourth quarter of 2024 was allocated to the Education reportable segment. See the Acquisitions and Dispositions footnote in the notes to our consolidated financial statements for more information.

We completed our annual impairment test for all reporting units with goodwill in the fourth quarter for the fiscal year ended 2024. For the PTS and Education reporting units, we performed step zero qualitative analyses and have concluded that there are no indications that the fair values of the PTS and Education reporting units are less than their respective carrying values and therefore no further testing was required. For the Softworld and MRP reporting units, our annual goodwill impairment testing included step one quantitative tests. As a result of the quantitative assessment, we determined that the estimated fair value of the MRP reporting unit was more than its carrying value and that the estimated fair value of the Softworld reporting unit no longer exceeded the carrying value. Softworld's 2024 financial performance was lower than internal projections due to continued challenging market conditions. As a result, management’s expectation for near-term financial performance and projected long-term growth rates were revised accordingly. These changes in circumstances were also indicators that the respective long-lived assets may not be recoverable. Softworld has definite-lived intangible assets, consisting of trade names, customer relationships and non-compete agreements, which are amortized over their estimated useful lives. We performed a long-lived asset recoverability test for Softworld and determined that undiscounted future cash flows exceeded the carrying amount of the asset group and were recoverable. Based on the result of our annual goodwill impairment test, we recorded an impairment charge of $72.8 million, which was included in goodwill impairment charge in the consolidated statements of earnings for the year ended 2024, to write-off a portion of Softworld's goodwill balance. Included in the impairment charge was an $18.4 million tax benefit associated with the impairment. The remaining goodwill balance for the Softworld reporting unit was $38.5 million as of year-end 2024.

Our quantitative analyses used significant assumptions, including: expected future revenue growth rates, profit margins and discount rate. Although we believe the assumptions and estimates we have made are reasonable and appropriate, different assumptions and estimates could materially impact our reported financial results. Different assumptions of the anticipated future results and growth from our business could result in an impairment charge, which would decrease operating income and result in lower asset values on our consolidated balance sheet. As a measure of sensitivity of the fair value for the MRP reporting unit, while holding all other assumptions constant, an increase in the discount rate of 75 basis points or a decrease of 75 basis points in the revenue growth rate assumptions for each forecasted period used to determine the fair value of the reporting unit would not result in an impairment of goodwill. The estimated fair value of the MRP reporting unit exceeds the carrying value by less than 10%. If current expectations of future revenue and profit margins are not met, or if market factors outside of our control change significantly, including discount rate, then the goodwill of the MRP reporting unit may be impaired in the future, resulting in goodwill impairment charges.

As a measure of sensitivity for the fair value for Softworld reporting unit, while holding all other assumptions constant, an increase in the discount rate of 75 basis points or a decrease of 75 basis points in the revenue growth rate assumptions for each forecasted period used to determine the fair value of the reporting unit would result in additional goodwill impairment of approximately $9.9 million and $8.8 million, respectively. If current expectations of future revenue and profit margins are not met, or if market factors outside of our control change significantly, including discount rate, then the goodwill of the Softworld reporting unit may be further impaired in the future, resulting in additional goodwill impairment charges.

We completed our annual impairment test for all reporting units with goodwill in the fourth quarter for the fiscal year ended 2023. We performed a step one quantitative test for the Softworld and PTS reporting units. As a result of the quantitative assessment, we determined that the estimated fair value of the Softworld and PTS reporting units was more than its carrying value. Additionally, we performed a step zero qualitative analysis for the Education reporting unit to determine whether a further quantitative analysis was necessary and concluded that a step one quantitative analysis was not necessary. As a result of the quantitative and qualitative assessments, the Company determined goodwill was not impaired as of year-end 2023.

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We completed our annual impairment test for all reporting units with goodwill in the fourth quarter for the fiscal year ended 2022. We performed a step one quantitative test for the Softworld and PTS reporting units. As a result of the quantitative assessment, we determined that the estimated fair value of the Softworld and PTS reporting units was more than its carrying value. Additionally, we performed a step zero qualitative analysis for the Education and RocketPower reporting units to determine whether a further quantitative analysis was necessary and concluded that a step one quantitative analysis was not necessary at that time. As a result of the quantitative and qualitative assessments, the Company determined goodwill related to these reporting units was not impaired at that time.

During the second half of 2022, customers within the high-tech industry vertical, in which RocketPower specializes, reduced or eliminated their full-time hiring, reducing demand for RocketPower’s services, and on-going economic uncertainty had more broadly impacted the growth in demand for RPO in the near-term. These changes in market conditions therefore caused triggering events requiring interim impairment tests for both long-lived assets and goodwill as of the third and fourth quarters of 2022. We performed a long-lived asset recoverability tests for RocketPower and determined that undiscounted future cash flows exceeded the carrying amount of the asset group and were recoverable. We performed interim step one quantitative tests for RocketPower’s goodwill and determined that the estimated fair value of the reporting unit no longer exceeded the carrying value. Based on the result of our interim goodwill impairment tests, we recorded a total goodwill impairment charge of $41.0 million as of year-end 2022 to write-off all of RocketPower's goodwill balance.

At year-end 2024 and 2023, total goodwill amounted to $304.2 million and $151.1 million, respectively. See the Goodwill and Intangible Assets footnote in the notes to our consolidated financial statements for more information.

Litigation

Kelly is subject to legal proceedings, investigations and claims arising out of the normal course of business. Kelly routinely assesses the likelihood of any adverse judgments or outcomes to these matters, as well as ranges of probable losses. A determination of the amount of the accruals required, if any, for these contingencies is made after analysis of each known issue. Development of the analysis includes consideration of many factors including: potential exposure, the status of proceedings, negotiations, discussions with our outside counsel and results of similar litigation. The required accruals may change in the future due to new developments in each matter. For further discussion, see the Contingencies footnote in the notes to our consolidated financial statements. At year-end 2024 and 2023, the gross accrual for litigation costs amounted to $1.5 million and $6.4 million, of which $1.5 million was held for sale, respectively, which is included in accounts payable and accrued liabilities and in accrued workers’ compensation and other claims in the consolidated balance sheet. See the Acquisitions and Dispositions footnote in the notes to our consolidated financial statements for more information.

NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

See New Accounting Pronouncements footnote in the notes to our consolidated financial statements presented in Part II, Item 8 of this report for a description of new accounting pronouncements.

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CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Certain statements contained in this report and in our investor conference call related to these results are “forward-looking” statements within the meaning of the applicable securities laws and regulations. Forward-looking statements include statements which are predictive in nature, which depend upon or refer to future events or conditions, or which include words such as “expects,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates,” or variations or negatives thereof or by similar or comparable words or phrases. In addition, any statements concerning future financial performance (including future revenues, earnings or growth rates), ongoing business strategies or prospects, and possible future actions by us that may be provided by management, including oral statements or other written materials released to the public, are also forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on current expectations and projections about future events and are subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions about our Company and economic and market factors in the countries in which we do business, among other things. These statements are not guarantees of future performance, and we have no specific intention to update these statements.

Actual events and results may differ materially from those expressed or forecasted in forward-looking statements due to a number of factors. The principal important risk factors that could cause our actual performance and future events and actions to differ materially from such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, (i) changing market and economic conditions, (ii) disruption in the labor market and weakened demand for human capital resulting from technological advances, loss of large corporate customers and government contractor requirements, (iii) the impact of laws and regulations (including federal, state and international tax laws), (iv) unexpected changes in claim trends on workers’ compensation, unemployment, disability and medical benefit plans, (v) litigation and other legal liabilities (including tax liabilities) in excess of our estimates, (vi) our ability to achieve our business's anticipated growth strategies, (vii) our future business development, results of operations and financial condition, (viii) damage to our brands, (ix) dependency on third parties for the execution of critical functions, (x) conducting business in foreign countries, including foreign currency fluctuations, (xi) availability of temporary workers with appropriate skills required by customers, (xii) cyberattacks or other breaches of network or information technology security, and (xiii) other risks, uncertainties and factors discussed in this report and in our other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Actual results may differ materially from any forward-looking statements contained herein, and we undertake no duty to update any forward-looking statement to conform the statement to actual results or changes in the Company’s expectations. Certain risk factors are discussed more fully under “Risk Factors” in Part I, Item 1A of this report.