UNITED STATES

 UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q

(Mark One)

  X     QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15 (d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

        For the quarterly period ended March 31, 2003

 

OR

        TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15 (d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

        For the transition period from _____ to _____

Commission File Number: 001-16159

WATSON WYATT & COMPANY HOLDINGS
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)

Delaware

 

52-2211537

(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)

 

(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)

1717 H Street NW
Washington, D.C. 20006-3900
(Address of principal executive offices, including zip code)
(202) 715-7000
(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)


Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the Registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days:

Yes  X      No     

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer's classes of common stock, as of April 28, 2003.

Class

Number of Shares

Class A Common Stock, $.01 par value

 

32,942,153

 


WATSON WYATT & COMPANY HOLDINGS
INDEX TO FORM 10-Q


For the Three and Nine Months Ended March 31, 2003

PART I.

FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

Item 1.

Financial Statements (Unaudited)

1 - 4

 

Consolidated Statements of Operations--Three and nine months ended March 31, 2003 and 2002


1

 

Consolidated Balance Sheets--March 31, 2003 and June 30, 2002

2

 

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows--Nine months ended March 31, 2003 and 2002


3

 

Consolidated Statement of Changes in Stockholders' Equity--Nine months ended March 31, 2003


4

 

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

5

Item 2.

Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

15

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

26

Item 4.

Controls and Procedures

27

PART II.

OTHER INFORMATION

 

Item 1.

Legal Proceedings

27

Item 2.

Changes in Securities and Use of Proceeds

27

Item 3.

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

28

Item 4.

Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

28

Item 5.

Other Information

28

Item 6.

Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K

29

Signatures

30

Certifications

31

 


WATSON WYATT & COMPANY HOLDINGS
Consolidated Statements of Operations
(Thousands of U.S. Dollars, Except Per Share Data)
               
    Three Months Ended March 31,   Nine Months Ended March 31,


    2003   2002   2003   2002




    (Unaudited)    (Unaudited) 
                 
Revenue   $    177,596   $    180,382   $    531,178   $     527,735
   
 
 
 
Costs of providing services:               

   Salaries and employee benefits

100,584   105,432   299,935   300,646
   Professional and subcontracted services 11,564   11,270   35,424   35,829
   Occupancy, communications and other 27,295  

27,303

 

79,408

 

81,518

   General and administrative expenses 13,690   14,043   42,895   41,250
   Depreciation and amortization 4,854   4,922   15,199   15,552




    157,987   162,970   472,861   474,795
   



Income from operations 19,609   17,412   58,317   52,940
             
Interest income, net 150   302   617   988
Other non-operating income --   --   641   1,000
Income from affiliates  1,322   793   4,229   2,888
   



Income from continuing operations

   before income taxes

21,081   18,507   63,804   57,816
                 
Provision for income taxes  8,640   7,400   26,156   23,125
   



                 
Income from continuing operations 12,441   11,107   37,648   34,691
                 
Discontinued operations:              
                 

Adjustment to reduce estimated loss on

disposal of discontinued operations

[see Note 8] [less applicable income tax

expense of $4,692 for the three and nine

months ended March 31, 2003]

6,752   --   6,752   --
   
 
 
 
                 
Net income   $       19,193   $      11,107   $      44,400   $       34,691
   
 
 
 
               
Basic earnings per share              
   Income from continuing operations $          0.37   $          0.34   $          1.14   $           1.05
   Income from discontinued operations           0.21                  --             0.21                  --
 
 
 
 
   Net income $          0.58   $          0.34   $          1.35   $           1.05
   
 
 
 
Diluted earnings per share              
   Income from continuing operations $          0.37   $          0.33   $          1.13   $           1.04
   Income from discontinued operations           0.21                  --             0.21                  --
 
 
 
 
   Net income $          0.58   $          0.33   $          1.34   $           1.04
   
 
 
 

Weighted average shares of common

stock, basic (000)

32,942   32,959   32,944   32,995
   
 
 
 

Weighted average shares of common

stock, diluted (000)

33,242   33,401   33,277   33,420

 
 
 

 

See accompanying notes

1


 

WATSON WYATT & COMPANY HOLDINGS
Consolidated Balance Sheets
(Thousands of U.S. Dollars, Except Per Share Data)
           
      March 31,   June 30,
      2003   2002


      (Unaudited)    
Assets
Cash and cash equivalents   $          119,795   $            95,974
Receivables from clients:        
  Billed, net of allowances of $1,556 and $1,405   85,034   83,311
  Unbilled, net of allowances of $479 and $431   62,401   68,301


      147,435   151,612
Deferred income taxes   5,073   7,904
Other current assets   11,261   17,268


  Total current assets   283,564   272,758
       
Investment in affiliates   23,550   20,086
Fixed assets, net   60,920   62,552
Deferred income taxes   60,542   54,758
Goodwill and intangible assets  

18,597

 

18,430

Other assets   6,311   8,233


Total Assets   $          453,484   $          436,817


Liabilities
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities, including discretionary compensation   $          101,711   $          134,998
Income taxes payable   22,281   14,589


  Total current liabilities   123,992   149,587
Accrued retirement benefits   89,527   84,148
Deferred rent and accrued lease losses   4,633   3,660
Other noncurrent liabilities   30,759   40,201
     
 
Total Liabilities   248,911   277,596


Commitments and contingencies        
         
Stockholders' Equity        
Preferred Stock - No par value:        
  1,000,000 shares authorized;        
  None issued and outstanding   --    --
Class A Common Stock - $.01 par value:        
  69,000,000 shares authorized;        
  33,087,880 and 20,212,449 issued and         
  32,935,240 and 20,029,115 outstanding   331   202
Class B-1 Common Stock - $.01 par value:        
  15,000,000 shares authorized;        
  none issued and outstanding   --   --
Class B-2 Common Stock - $.01 par value:        
  15,000,000 shares authorized;        
  none and 12,868,030 issued and outstanding   --   129
Additional paid-in capital    146,172   147,034
Treasury stock, at cost - 152,640 and 183,334 shares    (2,941

)

(3,076

)

Retained earnings   64,751  

20,351

 
Cumulative translation adjustment (accumulated other        
  comprehensive loss)   (3,740

)

(5,419

)



Total Stockholders' Equity   204,573   159,221
     
 
Total Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity   $          453,484   $          436,817


 

See accompanying notes

2


 

WATSON WYATT & COMPANY HOLDINGS

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

(Thousands of U.S. Dollars)

   

Nine Months Ended March 31,


2003   2002
   

(Unaudited)

Cash flows from operating activities:      
  Net income $       44,400   $       34,691
  Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash      
     from operating activities:      
        Income from discontinued operations, net of income tax expense (6,752

)

--
        Provision for doubtful receivables from clients 6,494   5,025
        Depreciation 14,983   15,456
        Amortization of intangible assets 216   96
        Provision for deferred income taxes (2,953

--
        Income from affiliates (4,229 )

(2,888

)

        Distributions from affiliates 3,400   600
        Other, net (843 )

(1,512

)

        Changes in operating assets and liabilities (net of discontinued operations):     
           Receivables from clients (2,317 )

(12,794

)

           Other current assets 6,007  

(2,392

)

           Other assets 1,922   (295

)

           Accounts payable and accrued liabilities (27,438 )

(29,934

)

           Income taxes payable 3,000  

(603

)

         Accrued retirement benefits 5,379

4,766

 
           Deferred rent and accrued lease losses 973  

93

 

           Other noncurrent liabilities 1,221  

1,447

 



     Net cash from operating activities 43,463  

11,756

 

   
 
Cash flows used in investing activities:      
  Purchases of fixed assets (13,402 )

(22,120

)

  Proceeds from divestitures 1,042   1,681
  Acquisitions and contingent consideration payments (442 )

(3,583

)

  Investment in affiliate (1,961 ) --


      Net cash used in investing activities (14,763 )

(24,022

)

   
 
Cash flows used in financing activities:      
  Secondary offering costs --   (56

)

  Issuances of common stock - exercises of stock options 458   347
  Issuances of common stock - employee stock purchase plan 4,768   --
     Repurchases of common stock (11,385 ) (1,670

)



   Net cash used in financing activities (6,159 )

(1,379

)

 
 
 
Effect of exchange rates on cash 1,280  

651

 
   

Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 23,821  

(12,994

)

       
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period 95,974   81,735
   
 
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period $     119,795   $       68,741


 

See accompanying notes

3


 

WATSON WYATT & COMPANY HOLDINGS
Consolidated Statement of Changes in Stockholders' Equity
(Thousands of U.S. Dollars)
(Unaudited)
                               
      Cumulative             Additional   Treasury    
  Retained   Translation   Class A   Class B-1   Class B-2   Paid-in   Stock,    
  Earnings   Loss   Common Stock   Common Stock   Common Stock   Capital   at Cost   Total
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Balance at June 30, 2002 $                   20,351   $        (5,419

$                  202   $                     --      $                  129   $    147,034   $          (3,076

$       159,221
Comprehensive income:                              
    Net income

44,400

                          44,400
    Foreign currency translation adjustment     1,679                       1,679

Total comprehensive income                             46,079
Transfer restriction expiration of                              
12,745,015 shares         127       (127

)

        --
Repurchases of common stock         2       (2 

)

    (11,385 )

(11,385

)

Issuances of common stock - exercises of                              
common stock options                  

 

(72

)

530   458
Issuances of common stock - employee stock                              
purchase plan                     (1,033

5,801   4,768
Issuances of common stock - deferred stock units                     285   5,021  

5,306

 
Issuance of common stock to outside directors                     (42

)

168  

126

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Balance at March 31, 2003 $                    64,751   $        (3,740 $                   331   $                     --   $                     --   $    146,172   $          (2,941 $       204,573








 

See accompanying notes

4


 

WATSON WYATT & COMPANY HOLDINGS

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
(Tabular amounts are in thousands, except per share data)

(Unaudited)

Note 1 - Basis of Presentation.

The accompanying unaudited quarterly consolidated financial statements of Watson Wyatt & Company Holdings and our subsidiaries (collectively referred to as "we," "Watson Wyatt" or the "Company") are presented in accordance with the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") for quarterly reports on Form 10-Q. In the opinion of management, these statements reflect all adjustments, including recurring adjustments, which are necessary for a fair presentation of the consolidated financial statements for the interim periods. The consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements and notes thereto contained in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2002, which is filed with the SEC and may be accessed via EDGAR on the SEC's web site at www.sec.gov.

The results of operations for the three and nine months ended March 31, 2003 are not necessarily indicative of the results that can be expected for the entire fiscal year ending June 30, 2003. The results reflect certain estimates, including estimated bonuses and anticipated tax rates. Certain prior year amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current year's presentation.

Note 2 - Company Background.

Watson Wyatt & Company Holdings, including our subsidiaries, is a global human capital consulting firm. We help our clients enhance business performance by improving their ability to attract, retain and motivate qualified employees. As leading economies worldwide become more services oriented, human capital has become increasingly important to companies and organizations. The heightened competition for skilled employees, unprecedented changes in workforce demographics and rising employee-related costs have increased the importance of effective human capital management. We help our clients address these issues by combining our expertise in human capital management with technologies in order to improve the design and implementation of various human resources, or HR programs, including compensation, retirement and healthcare plans.

Note 3 - Segment Information.

The Company's North American regions are managed using a practice-based matrix form of organization, while our international operations are managed geographically. We have five reportable segments:

(1)

Benefits Group

(2)

Technology Solutions Group (formerly eHR)

(3)

Human Capital Group

(4)

International

(5)

Other (including Data Services and Communication)

 

5


The Company evaluates the performance of its segments and allocates resources to them primarily based on net operating income, which is income from continuing operations before income taxes and discretionary compensation.

The table below presents specified information about reported segments as of and for the three months ended March 31, 2003:

 

Benefits

Group

 

Technology

Solutions

Group

 

Human

Capital

Group

 

International

 

Other

 

Total

Revenue (net of

   reimbursable

   expenses)

$

103,996

 

$

22,467

 

$

12,216

 

$

19,103

 

$

10,648

 

$

168,430

Net operating

   income/(loss)

26,741

3,081

1,549

847

(586

)

31,632

Receivables

90,590

16,071

9,505

15,720

6,585

138,471


The table below presents specified information about reported segments as of and for the three months ended March 31, 2002:

 

Benefits

Group

 

Technology

Solutions

Group

 

Human

Capital

Group

 

International

 

Other

 

Total

Revenue (net of

   reimbursable

   expenses)

$

104,392

 

$

25,742

 

$

12,465

 

$

17,387

 

$

12,688

 

$

172,674

Net operating

   income/(loss)

30,112

4,233

(1,098

)

578

(422

)

33,403

Receivables

93,779

20,184

10,988

14,302

11,077

150,330

 

6


The table below presents specified information about reported segments as of and for the nine months ended March 31, 2003:

 

Benefits

Group

 

Technology

Solutions

Group

 

Human

Capital

Group

 

International

 

Other

 

Total

Revenue (net of

   reimbursable

   expenses)

$

301,072

 

$

75,296

 

$

35,402

 

$

56,167

 

$

36,559

 

$

504,496

Net operating

   income

70,684

12,731

1,076

2,171

1,549

88,211

Receivables

 

90,590

 

 

16,071

 

 

9,505

 

 

15,720

 

 

6,585

 

 

138,471

 

The table below presents specified information about reported segments as of and for the nine months ended March 31, 2002:

 

Benefits

Group

 

Technology

Solutions

Group

 

Human

Capital

Group

 

International

 

Other

 

Total

Revenue (net of

   reimbursable

   expenses)

$

292,700

 

$

81,089

 

$

36,571

 

$

51,030

 

$

43,395

 

$

504,785

Net operating

   income/(loss)

73,263

16,822

(4,730

)

941

1,750

88,046

Receivables

93,779

20,184

10,988

14,302

11,077

150,330


Information about interest income and tax expense is not presented as a segment expense because they are not considered a responsibility of the segments' operating management.

7


Reconciliations of the information reported by segment to the consolidated amounts follow for the three and nine month periods ended March 31, 2003 and 2002: 

Three Months Ended March 31,

Nine Months Ended March 31,

2003

2002

2003

2002

Revenue:

   Total segment revenue

$

168,430

$

172,674

$

504,496

$

504,785

   Reimbursable expenses not included in total

      segment revenue

8,528

7,939

25,846

22,438

   Other, net

638

(231

)

836

512

 
 
 
 
 

   Consolidated revenue

$

177,596

$

180,382

$

531,178

$

527,735

 
 
 
 
 

Net Operating Income:

Total segment net operating income

$

31,632

$

33,403

$

88,211

$

88,046

Income from affiliates

1,322

793

4,229

2,888

Differences in allocation methods for

     depreciation, G&A, medical and pension costs

(19

)

(223

)

(1,114

)

(1,431

)

Gain on sale of business units and

other non-operating income

--

(311

)

1,069

1,000

Discretionary compensation

(8,147

)

(13,716

)

(27,721

)

(32,530

)

   Other, net

(3,707

)

(1,439

)

(870

)

(157

)

 
 
 
 
 

Consolidated income from continuing

operations before income taxes

$

21,081

$

18,507

$

63,804

$

57,816

 
 
 
 
 

Receivables:

   Total segment receivables - billed and unbilled

$

138,471

$

150,330

$

138,471

$

150,330

   Net valuation differences

8,964

9,028

8,964

9,028

 
 
 
 
 

   Total billed and unbilled receivables

147,435

159,358

147,435

159,358

   Assets not reported by segment

306,049

236,950

306,049

236,950

 
 
 
 
 

   Consolidated assets

$

453,484

$

396,308

$

453,484

$

396,308

 
 
 
 
 

Note 4 - Targeted Job Reductions.

We implemented targeted job reductions in our North American Technology Solutions Group (formerly eHR) and Human Capital Group during the second quarter of fiscal year 2003. This resulted in the elimination of 72 positions, or approximately 2% of our workforce, and a severance charge of $2.0 million that was included in our results for the quarter ended December 31, 2002. Of the $2.0 million severance charge, $1.8 million was included in Salaries and employee benefit expenses and $0.2 million was included in Professional and subcontracted services. As of March 31, 2003, amounts due under related severance agreements had been paid.

8


Note 5 - Sale of U.S. Based Public Sector Retirement Business.

Effective August 31, 2001, we sold our U.S. based public sector retirement business to Gabriel, Roeder, Smith & Company ("GRS"). The sale included approximately 120 U.S. public sector retirement clients, representing approximately $6.0 million in annual revenues. Simultaneous with the sale, we entered into an alliance agreement with GRS under which we will mutually refer future business opportunities and explore joint consulting assignments.

In accordance with the terms of the sale, GRS paid $1.0 million to the Company during the first quarter of fiscal year 2002, and $0.5 million of contingent payments during the first quarter of fiscal year 2003. The Company also received approximately 7% of the common stock of GRS in fiscal year 2002, in lieu of a portion of future cash payments. The amount of additional contractual cash payments over the next four years is contingent upon the successful transition of certain clients to GRS and upon their retention by GRS.

Note 6 - Investment in Affiliate.

In September 2002, the Company made a capital investment of £ 1.25 million, or approximately $2.0 million, in our affiliate, Watson Wyatt Holdings (Europe) Limited. This transaction has been recorded as an Investment in affiliates.

Note 7 - Goodwill.

The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for the nine months ended March 31, 2003 are as follows:

 

 

 

Benefits Group

 

Technology

Solutions

(formerly eHR)

Group

 

Human Capital Group

 

 

 

 

International

 

 

 

 

Other

 

 

 

 

Total

 

Balance as of June 30, 2002

$

14,684

 

$

949

 

$

59

 

$

244

 

$

1,214

 

$

17,150

 

Goodwill recorded during the period

 

--

 

 

--

 

 

--

 

 

442

 

 

--

 

 

442

 

Translation adjustment

 

112

 

 

--

 

 

3

 

 

(3

)

 

--

 

 

112

 







Balance as of March 31, 2003

$

14,796

 

$

949

 

$

62

 

$

683

 

$

1,214

 

$

17,704

 






 

9


The following table reflects changes in the net carrying amount of the components of intangible assets for the nine months ended March 31, 2003:

Non-contractual

customer

relationships

 

Non-compete

agreements

 

Purchased

software

 

 

Total

Balance as of June 30, 2002

$

866

$

361

$

53

$

1,280

Amortization expense

(130

)

(69

)

(17

)

(216

)

Translation adjustment

(171

)

--

--

(171

)

 
 
 
 
 

Balance as of March 31, 2003

$

565

$

292

$

36

$

893

 
 
 
 
 
 

The gross carrying amount of intangible assets at March 31, 2003 was $1,493,000. Accumulated amortization of intangible assets at March 31, 2003 was $600,000. The weighted average remaining life of amortizable intangible assets at March 31, 2003 was 3.2 years. Estimated amortization expense for fiscal year 2003 and each of the four succeeding fiscal years is as follows:

Fiscal year ending June 30:

Amount

2003

$

290

2004

290

2005

270

2006

238

2007

21


Note 8 - Discontinued Operations.

The Company continues to guarantee three leases for office premises for Wellspring Resources, LLC ("Wellspring"), the benefits administration outsourcing business that we exited from in fiscal year 1998. These leases are also jointly and severally guaranteed by the Company's former partner in Wellspring, State Street Bank and Trust Company. The estimated loss from the potential exercise of these guarantees was originally included in the fiscal year 1998 loss accrual recorded in connection with the disposal of the benefits administration outsourcing business. At March 31, 2003, minimum remaining payments guaranteed under these leases, which expire at various dates through 2007, total $26.1 million, excluding anticipated future sublease income.

As a result of de minimis positive cash flows that began in the second quarter of fiscal year 2003 related to these leases, the Company reevaluated its accrual for the estimated remaining future obligations and costs related to the exit from Wellspring. The evaluation included an analysis of occupancy rates of Wellspring, along with an analysis of real estate market conditions in cities in which the leases exist and an assessment of probable future sublease income for these leases. As a result of this analysis, the Company reduced the amount of its provision for losses from disposal of the benefits administration outsourcing business in the third quarter of fiscal year 2003 by $11.4 million, less the associated income tax expense of $4.7 million. Such adjustment is reflected in the Consolidated Statement of Operations for the third quarter of fiscal year 2003 in the line "Adjustment to reduce estimated loss on disposal of discontinued operations." The remaining noncurrent liability of $4.0 million represents management's best estimate of potential future cash out flows related to guarantees associated with Wellspring leases.

10


Note 9 - Earnings Per Share.

Basic earnings per share is calculated on the basis of the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the three and nine months ended March 31, 2003. Diluted earnings per share is calculated on the basis of the weighted average number of common shares outstanding plus the effect of outstanding stock options using the "treasury stock" method. The components of basic and diluted earnings per share are as follows:

Three Months Ended March 31,

Nine Months Ended March 31,

2003

2002

2003

2002

Income from continuing operations

$

12,441

$

11,107

$

37,648

$

34,691

Discontinued operations

6,752

--

6,752

--

 
 
 
 

Net income

$

19,193

$

11,107

$

44,400

$

34,691

 
 
 
 

Weighted average outstanding shares of

   common stock

32,942

32,959

32,944

32,995

Dilutive effect of employee stock options

   and employee stock purchase plan shares

300

442

333

425

 
 
 
 

Common stock and stock equivalents

33,242

33,401

33,277

33,420

 
 
 
 

Basic earnings per share

Income from continuing operations

$

0.37

$

0.34

$

1.14

$

1.05

Discontinued operations

0.21

--

0.21

--

 
 
 
 

Basic earnings per share, net income

$

0.58

$

0.34

$

1.35

$

1.05

 
 
 
 

Diluted earnings per share

Income from continuing operations

$

0.37

$

0.33

$

1.13

$

1.04

Discontinued operations

0.21

--

0.21

--

 
 
 
 

Diluted earnings per share, net income

$

0.58

$

0.33

$

1.34

$

1.04

 
 
 
 

 

11


Note 10 - Stock Based Compensation.

We have elected to follow Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25, "Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees" (APB 25), for stock options issued under the 2000 Long-Term Incentive Plan, and the 2001 Employee Stock Purchase Plan. Compensation expense for the 2000 Long-Term Incentive Plan, if any, would be recorded and measured as the difference between the fair market value of the stock at the date of the grant and the option price. The compensation expense would be recognized over the five-year vesting period identified in the plan. For any cash based, non-stock awards, such as stock appreciation rights, compensation expense will be recognized over the vesting period to the extent that the market price of the stock increases. We have elected the disclosure-only provisions of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation" (FAS 123).

As required by FAS 123, the Company has determined pro forma net income and earnings per share as if the Company had accounted for its stock compensation plans under the fair value method of FAS 123. The Company estimated compensation expense for its Stock Purchase Plan based on the 15% discounted purchase price offered to employees enrolled in the plan. For the Stock Option Plan, the Company uses the Black-Scholes option valuation model to calculate the fair value of options granted for pro forma disclosure purposes.

The table below reflects the pro-forma effect on net income and earnings per share for the three and nine months ended March 31, 2003 and 2002 as if the Company were to recognize compensation expense under the fair value based method of FAS 123:

Three Months Ended March 31,

Nine Months Ended March 31,

2003

2002

2003

2002

Net income, as reported

$

19,193

$

11,107

$

44,400

$

34,691

Add: Stock-based compensation expense

   included in reported net income, net of

   related tax effects

--

--

--

--

Deduct: Total stock-based employee

compensation expense determined under

fair value based method for all awards, net

of related tax effects

(320

)

(407

)

(1,030

)

(914

)





Pro forma net income

$

18,873

$

10,700

$

43,370

$

33,777





Earnings per share:

   Basic - as reported

$

0.58

$

0.34

$

1.35

$

1.05





   Basic - pro forma

$

0.57

$

0.32

$

1. 32

$

1.02





   Diluted - as reported

$

0.58

$

0.33

$

1.34

$

1.04





   Diluted - pro forma

$

0.57

$

0.32

$

1.30

$

1.01





In December 2002, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 148, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation - Transition and Disclosure" (FAS 148). FAS 148 provides additional transition guidance for those entities that elect to expense stock options pursuant to FAS 123, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation."

12


Note 11 - Comprehensive Income.

Comprehensive income includes net income and changes in the cumulative translation adjustment gain or loss. For the three months ended March 31, 2003, comprehensive income totaled $20.4 million, compared with $11.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2002. For the nine months ended March 31, 2003, comprehensive income totaled $46.1 million, compared with $35.3 million for the nine months ended March 31, 2002.

Note 12 - Initial Public Offering and Common Stock.

We had three classes of common stock outstanding after completion of our initial public offering ("IPO") in October 2000: Class A, B-1 and B-2. Class A shares are freely transferable. Class B-1 and B-2 shares had transfer restrictions which expired on October 16, 2001 and October 16, 2002, respectively. As a result, 9,956,140 shares of our Class B-1 common stock and 12,745,015 shares of our Class B-2 common stock automatically converted into Class A common stock on those respective dates.

In addition to the transfer restriction periods described above, we entered into agreements providing for additional transfer restrictions with major stockholders, executive officers and employee directors. As a result of these agreements, 4,193,475 Class A shares are currently restricted, of which 2,096,747 will become freely transferable in October 2003 and 2,096,728 will become freely transferable in October 2004.

Note 13 - Guarantees.

The Company has historically provided guarantees on an infrequent basis to third parties in the normal course of business. The guarantees described below are currently in effect and could require the Company to make payments to third parties under certain circumstances.

Letters of Credit. The Company has outstanding two letters of credit totaling $5.8 million under our existing credit facility to guarantee payment to the beneficiary in the event that the Company fails to meet its financial obligations to that beneficiary. One letter of credit for $2.6 million will ultimately expire in October 2006, while the second letter of credit for $3.2 million will remain outstanding as long as we retain an ownership share of our affiliated captive insurance company, Professional Consultants Insurance Company (PCIC).

Stock Loans. The Company also guarantees a credit facility which provides loans to associates for stock purchased under our former Stock Purchase Program. This Stock Purchase program was discontinued in conjunction with our initial public offering in October 2000. As a result, the amounts guaranteed under this facility will permanently decrease as the loans are repaid. The maximum available borrowings and aggregate outstanding balances under this facility were $1.1 million at March 31, 2003, and $2.9 million at June 30, 2002. A total of 1,070,000 and 2,731,000 Watson Wyatt & Company Holdings shares were pledged by stockholders to collateralize these loans at March 31, 2003, and June 30, 2002, respectively.

Affiliate Agreements. In 1995, we entered into an alliance agreement with R. Watson & Sons, a United Kingdom based actuarial, benefits and human resources consulting partnership (now Watson Wyatt LLP or WWLLP), the predecessor of which was founded in 1878. Included in the agreements between the Company and WWLLP (the "Alliance Agreements") are various indemnities and guarantees relating to the performance of the Company and its subsidiaries, some of which became part of Watson Wyatt Holdings (Europe), Ltd. (WWHE), as to such matters as tax liabilities, liabilities for prior acts or omissions arising from the operation of the UK and European businesses prior to the alliance and failure to perform various obligations under the Alliance Agreements. In addition, certain events, such as a sale of material parts of our business, could require the Company to either purchase from or sell to WWLLP an interest in our European business, and/or repurchase the shares of the Company's stock currently held by WWLLP. The Company is unable to estimate an amount of any potential future payments under these contractual arrangements since the potential occurrence of any of the events to which the indemnities apply is entirely speculative, and the dollar amount, if any, would be dependent upon the nature of the event triggering such indemnity. Management believes that any potential for payment under such indemnities and guarantees should decline with the passage of time. There are no provisions for recourse to third parties, nor are any assets held by any third parties that the Company as guarantor can liquidate to recover amounts paid under such indemnities.

13


The Company owns 25% of WWHE and WWLLP owns the remaining 75%. Additional capital for WWHE, if required, may be provided by both owners based on their respective ownership interests. If either the Company or WWLLP does not provide its pro rata share of any additional capital invested in WWHE, that party's respective ownership interest would be reduced accordingly.

In connection with the establishment of our alliance with Watson Wyatt LLP, the Company agreed to guarantee Watson Wyatt LLP's performance under a lease for office space in London that expires in 2015. Payments by Watson Wyatt LLP under the lease total approximately £ 1.4 million (or approximately $2.2 million per year). We also granted Watson Wyatt LLP an option to return the leased space to our UK subsidiary in 2009. If Watson Wyatt LLP exercises this option, the Company would attempt to sublease the space at the then-current market rates.

Indemnification Agreements. The Company has various agreements which provide that it may be obligated to indemnify the other party with respect to certain matters. Generally, these indemnification clauses are included in contracts arising in the normal course of business and in connection with the purchase and sale of certain businesses. Although it is not possible to predict the maximum potential amount of future payments under these indemnification agreements due to the conditional nature of the Company's obligations and the unique facts of each particular agreement, the Company does not believe that any potential liability that might arise from such indemnity provisions is probable or material. There are no provisions for recourse to third parties, nor are any assets held by any third parties that any guarantor can liquidate to recover amounts paid under such indemnities.

Wellspring Leases. We continue to guarantee three leases for office premises for Wellspring Resources, LLC ("Wellspring"), the benefits administration outsourcing business that we exited from in fiscal year 1998. At March 31, 2003, minimum remaining payments guaranteed under these leases, which expire at various dates through 2007, total $26.1 million, excluding anticipated future sublease income. These leases are also jointly and severally guaranteed by the Company's former partner in Wellspring, State Street Bank and Trust Company. The estimated loss from the potential exercise of these guarantees was included in the fiscal year 1998 loss accrual recorded in connection with our exit from the benefits administration outsourcing business. Wellspring related activity is reflected on the Statements of Operations and of Cash Flows as discontinued operations. See Note 8 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for more information related to Wellspring.

Note 14 - Recent Accounting Pronouncements.

In June 2002, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 146, "Accounting for Costs Associated with Exit or Disposal Activities" (FAS 146). FAS 146 provides further guidance regarding requirements for recognition of a liability for costs associated with an exit or disposal activity and is effective for all exit or disposal activities initiated after December 31, 2002. Management does not presently believe that the adoption of FAS 146 will have a material effect on the Company's financial performance or condition.

In November 2002, the FASB issued Interpretation No. 45 (FIN 45), which clarified existing guidance from the FASB regarding a guarantor's accounting for, and disclosure of, the issuance of certain types of guarantees. The disclosure provisions of the Interpretation are effective for all periods that end after December 15, 2002, and provisions for recognition and measurement are effective on a prospective basis for guarantees issued or modified after December 31, 2002. Management has reviewed guarantees issued by the Company and has provided relevant disclosure in Note 13 based on those types of guarantees which the Company currently has in place. The adoption of FIN 45 did not have an effect on the Company's financial performance or condition.

14


In January 2003, the FASB issued FASB Interpretation No. 46 (FIN 46), "Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities", which clarifies the financial reporting guidance associated with the consolidation of another entity. The consolidation requirements of FIN 46 apply immediately to variable interest entities created after January 31, 2003. Certain of the disclosure requirements apply in all financial statements issued after January 31, 2003, regardless of when the variable interest entity was established. Management does not believe that the adoption of FIN 46 will have an effect on the Company's financial performance or condition.

Note 15 - Contingent Liabilities.

From time to time, we are a party to various lawsuits, arbitrations or mediations that arise in the ordinary course of business. These disputes typically involve claims relating to the rendering of professional services or employment matters. Management believes, based on currently available information, that the results of all pending claims against us will not have a material adverse affect on the Company.

ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS.

General

We operate from 62 offices in 18 countries throughout North America, Asia-Pacific and Latin America. Watson Wyatt & Company, which became a wholly-owned subsidiary of Watson Wyatt & Company Holdings as a result of our corporate reorganization and initial public offering in October 2000, was incorporated in Delaware on February 17, 1958. Watson Wyatt & Company Holdings was incorporated in Delaware on January 7, 2000. Including our predecessors, we have been in business since 1946. In 1995, we entered into an alliance agreement with R. Watson & Sons (now Watson Wyatt LLP), a United Kingdom based actuarial, benefits and human resources limited liability partnership that was founded in 1878. We conducted business as The Wyatt Company until changing our corporate name to Watson Wyatt & Company in connection with the establishment of the Watson Wyatt Worldwide alliance. Since 1995, we and our alliance partners have marketed our services globally and seamlessly under the Watson Wyatt Worldwide brand, sharing resources, technologies, processes and business referrals.

Watson Wyatt's principal executive offices are located at 1717 H Street NW, Washington, D.C. 20006. Our web site is www.watsonwyatt.com. Information on this website is not a part of this filing.

As of March 31, 2003, we employed 4,140 associates as follows:

Benefits Group

1,658

Technology Solutions Group (formerly eHR)

397

Human Capital Group

180

International

989

Other (including Data Services & Communication)

687

Corporate

229

 

Total

4,140

 

 

15


Principal Services

We design, develop and implement HR strategies and programs through the following three closely interrelated practice areas:

Benefits Group

 

Technology Solutions Group

 

Human Capital Group

  • Retirement plans, including pension, 401(k) and executive benefits plans
    • eHRTM, our web-based delivery of HR information and programs

    • Compensation plans, including executive compensation and stock option programs
  • Investment consulting services to pension plans
    • Employee self-service applications and call centers

    • Strategies to align workforces with business objectives
  • Healthcare, disability and other group benefit plans
    • Benefit administration systems and retirement planning tools

    • Organization effectiveness services
  • Actuarial services
  •  
    • eHRTM strategy consulting, using best-of-breed research on HR vendors, products and services
     
    • Strategies for attracting, retaining and motivating employees
  • Workforce Planning
  •        


    Our clients include many of the world's largest corporations as well as emerging growth companies, public institutions and non-profit organizations. Many of our client relationships have existed over several decades.

    We believe that our extensive experience, global presence, dedication to long-term client relationships and recognized reputation for quality provide us with significant competitive advantages. We focus on delivering value-added consulting services that help our clients anticipate, identify and capitalize on emerging opportunities in human capital management.

    International Operations

    Outside of North America, our consultants, working in Asia-Pacific and Latin America, operate on a geographic basis from 25 offices in 16 countries and provide consulting services in the practice areas described above.

    Other

    While we focus our consulting services in the areas described above, management believes that one of our primary strengths is our ability to draw upon consultants from our different practices to deliver integrated services to meet the needs of our clients. Examples include:

    16


      1. Communication Consulting: Our communication consulting group provides research on employee attitudes and communication effectiveness, conducts communications audits, facilitates research and focus groups, provides communications planning and implementation and assists employers in complying with disclosure requirements.
         

      2. Data Services: Watson Wyatt Data Services produces custom and standard compensation and benefits surveys and human resource reference materials for use by global and local companies in 60 countries. Over 8,500 companies participate in our surveys and our products include over 70 compensation, benefits and employment practices references and survey reports.


    Watson Wyatt Worldwide Alliance

    Recognizing that a global organization is essential to service the needs of our clients, we established operations throughout Europe in the late 1970's by acquiring local firms and opening new offices. Responding to the rapidly increasing globalization of the world economy, we made a strategic decision in 1995 to strengthen our European capabilities significantly and extend our global reach by entering into an alliance agreement with R. Watson & Sons (now Watson Wyatt LLP). Since 1995, we have marketed our services globally and seamlessly under the Watson Wyatt Worldwide brand, sharing resources, technologies, processes and business referrals.

    The Watson Wyatt Worldwide global alliance maintains 89 offices in 30 countries and employs approximately 6,240 associates. Watson Wyatt & Company operates 62 offices in 18 countries in North America, Asia-Pacific and Latin America. Watson Wyatt LLP operates 10 offices in the United Kingdom and Ireland, and also operates two offices engaged in the insurance and financial services business in the United States. The alliance operates 15 offices in 10 continental European countries principally through a jointly owned holding company, Watson Wyatt Holdings (Europe) Limited, which is 25% owned by Watson Wyatt and 75% owned by Watson Wyatt LLP.

    Financial Statement Overview

    Watson Wyatt's fiscal year ends June 30. The financial statements contained in this quarterly report reflect a Consolidated Balance Sheet as of the end of the third quarter of fiscal year 2003 (March 31, 2003), a Consolidated Balance Sheet as of the end of fiscal year 2002 (June 30, 2002), Consolidated Statements of Operations for the three and nine month periods ended March 31, 2003 and 2002, Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the nine month periods ended March 31, 2003 and 2002 and a Consolidated Statement of Changes in Stockholders' Equity for the nine month period ended March 31, 2003.

    We operate globally as an alliance with our affiliates. However, the revenues and operating expenses in the Consolidated Statements of Operations reflect solely the results of operations of Watson Wyatt & Company Holdings. Our share of the results of our affiliates, recorded using the equity method of accounting, is reflected in the "Income from affiliates" line. Our affiliates are Watson Wyatt LLP, Watson Wyatt Holdings (Europe) Limited and, Professional Consultants Insurance Company, Inc. (PCIC), our captive insurance company.

    We derive substantially all of our revenue from fees for consulting services, which generally are billed at standard hourly rates or on a fixed-fee basis. Clients are typically invoiced on a monthly basis with revenue recognized as services are performed. For the most recent three fiscal years, revenue from U.S. consulting operations has comprised approximately 80% of consolidated revenue. No single client accounted for more than 4% of our consolidated revenue for any of the most recent three fiscal years.

    In delivering consulting services, our principal direct expenses relate to compensation of personnel. Salaries and employee benefits are comprised of wages paid to associates, related taxes, benefit expenses such as pension, medical and insurance costs and fiscal year-end incentive bonuses.

    17


    Professional and subcontracted services represent fees paid to external service providers for legal, marketing and other services. For the most recent three fiscal years, approximately 60% of these professional and subcontracted services were directly incurred on behalf of our clients and were reimbursed by them, with such reimbursements being included in revenue.

    Occupancy, communications and other expenses represent expenses for rent, utilities, supplies and telephone to operate office locations as well as non-client-reimbursed travel by associates, publications and professional development. General and administrative expenses include the operational costs and professional fees paid by corporate management, general counsel, marketing, human resources, finance, research and technology support.

    Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

    The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting period. Our estimates, judgements and assumptions are continually evaluated based on available information and experience. Because of the use of estimates inherent in the financial reporting process, actual results could differ from those estimates.

    We have reviewed the accounting estimates used in the preparation of our financial statements and have determined that the following accounting policies are critical to the understanding of the use of estimates in the Company's financial statements:

    Revenue Recognition.

    We recognize revenue on a time-and-materials basis or, to a lesser degree, on a fixed-fee basis, depending on the terms and conditions defined at the inception of an engagement with a client. Revenue is recognized on engagements as services are provided. Revenue includes reimbursable expenses billed to clients.

    For fixed-fee engagements, we periodically review ongoing engagements in order to assess the accuracy of our estimates-to-complete and revenue recognition, which can be affected by a number of factors including a change in the estimated amount of effort required to complete the project, changes in scope, the staffing on the engagement or client participation. This review requires us to make judgements and estimates regarding the overall profitability and stage of project completion, which, in turn, affects how we recognize revenue. To the extent that our estimates change for a particular engagement, we record the cumulative effect of the change in the period in which it becomes known. The Company recognizes a loss on an engagement when estimated revenue to be received for that engagement is less than total estimated direct and indirect costs associated with the engagement. Losses are recognized in the period in which the loss becomes probable and the amount of the loss is reasonably estimable.

    Valuation of Billed and Unbilled Receivables from Clients.

    We maintain allowances for doubtful accounts to reflect estimated losses resulting from our clients' failure to pay for our services after the services have been rendered. Our allowance policy is based on the aging of our billed and unbilled client receivables and has been developed based on our write-off history. Facts and circumstances may change that would require us to alter our estimates of the collectibility of specific billed and unbilled client receivables.

    Discretionary Compensation.

    The Company's compensation program includes a discretionary component in the form of an annual bonus that is determined by management and paid once per fiscal year after the Company's annual operating results are finalized. Quarterly, estimated annual pre-bonus profitability is reviewed by the Company and the discretionary annual bonus amount is then estimated by management. After determining the estimated annual bonus amount, the bonus is then allocated to remaining quarterly reporting periods as a constant percentage of estimated pre-bonus income from operations. In those quarters where the estimated annual bonus level changes, the remaining estimated annual bonus is accrued over the remaining quarters as a constant percentage of estimated future pre-bonus income from operations. Annual bonus levels may vary from current expectations as a result of changes in the Company's forecast of pre-bonus profitability and competitive employment market conditions.

    18


    Income Taxes.

    Determining the consolidated provision for income tax expense, deferred tax assets and liabilities and the related valuation allowance involves judgement. As a global company with offices in 18 countries, we are required to calculate and provide for estimated income tax liabilities for each of the tax jurisdictions where we operate. This process involves estimating current tax obligations and exposures in each jurisdiction as well as making judgements regarding the future recoverability of deferred tax assets. Tax costs can involve complex issues and may require an extended period to resolve. Changes in the geographic mix or estimated level of annual pre-tax income, revisions to tax positions taken as a result of further analysis and consultation, changes in tax laws and changes resulting from tax audits can all affect the overall effective income tax rate, which, in turn, impacts the overall level of income tax expense and net income.

    Pension Assumptions.

    We sponsor both qualified and non-qualified non-contributory defined benefit pension plans covering substantially all of our associates. Under our principal plans (U.S., Canada, and Hong Kong), benefits are based on our associates' years of service and compensation during the three highest paid consecutive years of service.

    Determination of our obligations and annual expense under the plans are based on a number of assumptions that, given the longevity of the plans, are long-term in their focus. A change in one or a combination of these assumptions could have a material impact on our pension benefit obligation and related expense. For this reason, management employs a long-term view so that assumptions do not change frequently in response to short-term volatility in the economy. Any difference between actual and assumed results is amortized into our pension expense over the average remaining service period of participating employees, which is approximately 11 years. We consider several factors prior to the start of each fiscal year when determining the appropriate annual assumptions, including economic forecasts, historical trends, portfolio composition and peer comparisons. We will evaluate these factors for the next valuation period at June 30, 2003, which will determine our fiscal year 2004 pension expense. In light of current economic forecasts, we anticipate that both the discount rate and the expected long-term rate of return on assets will decrease for purposes of the upcoming valuation.

    The following assumptions were used over the past three fiscal years in the valuation of our U.S. plan, which comprises the majority of the principal defined benefit pension plans:

    Year Ended June 30,

    2002

    2001

    2000

    Discount rate, projected benefit obligation

    7.25%

    7.25%

    7.25%

    Discount rate, net periodic pension cost

    7.25%

    7.25%

    7.00%

    Expected long-term rate of return on assets

    10.00%

    10.00%

    10.00

    %

    Rate of increase in compensation levels

    4.34%

    5.34%

    5.34%

     

    19


    Incurred But Not Reported Claims.

    The Company uses actuarial assumptions to estimate and record a liability for incurred but not reported (IBNR) professional liability claims and engaged an external actuarial firm to assist in the calculation of these estimates. Our estimated IBNR liability is based on long term trends and averages, and considers a number of factors, including changes in claim reporting patterns, claim settlement patterns, judicial decisions, and legislation and economic decisions, but excludes the effect of claims data for large cases due to the insufficiency of actual experience with such cases. Management does not currently expect significant fluctuations in the IBNR liability, based on the actuarial methodology utilized to calculate the liability. However, our estimated IBNR liability will fluctuate if claims experience changes over time.

    Results of Operations.

    The table below sets forth Consolidated Statements of Operations data for continuing operations as a percentage of revenue for the periods indicated:

     

    Three Months Ended March 31,

     

    Nine Months Ended March 31,

     

    2003

    2002

    2003

    2002

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Revenue

    100.0

    %

    100.0

    %

    100.0

    %

    100.0

    %

     
     
     
     
     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Costs of providing services:

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

       Salaries and employee benefits

    56.7

     

    58.4

     

    56.4

     

    57.1

     

       Professional and subcontracted services

    6.5

     

    6.3

     

    6.7

     

    6.8

     

       Occupancy, communications and other

    15.4

     

    15.1

     

    14.9

     

    15.4

     

       General and administrative expenses

    7.7

     

    7.8

     

    8.1

     

    7.8

     

       Depreciation and amortization

    2.7

     

    2.7

     

    2.9

     

    2.9

     

     
     
     
     
     

     

    89.0

     

    90.3

     

    89.0

     

    90.0

     

     
     
     
     
     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Income from operations

    11.0

     

    9.7

     

    11.0

     

    10.0

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Interest income, net

    0.1

     

    0.2

     

    0.1

     

    0.2

     

    Other non-operating income

    --

     

    --

     

    0.1

     

    0.2

     

    Income from affiliates

    0.8

     

    0.4

     

    0.8

     

    0.6

     

     
     
     
     
     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Income from continuing operations

    before income taxes

    11.9

     

    10.3

     

    12.0

     

    11.0

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Provision for income taxes

    4.9

     

    4.1

     

    4.9

     

    4.4

     

     
     
     
     
     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Income from continuing operations

    7.0

    %

    6.2

    %

    7.1

    %

    6.6

    %

     
     
     
     
     

    Three and Nine Months Ended March 31, 2003 Compared to the Three and Nine Months Ended March 31, 2002

    Revenue.

    Revenue from operations for the third quarter of fiscal year 2003 was $177.6 million, compared to $180.4 million for the third quarter of fiscal year 2002, a decrease of $2.8 million, or 2%. The revenue decrease was comprised of a $3.2 million, or 13% decrease in our Technology Solutions Group, a $2.1 million, or 17% decrease in Other practice areas in North America, a $0.4 million decrease in our Benefits Group and a $0.3 million, or 2% decrease in our Human Capital Group, partially offset by a $1.7 million, or 10% increase in International and a $0.6 million increase in reimbursable expenses billed to clients.

    20


    Revenue from operations was $531.2 million for the first nine months of fiscal year 2003, compared to $527.7 million for the first nine months of fiscal year 2002, an increase of $3.5 million, or 1%. This revenue increase was comprised of an $8.4 million, or 3% increase in our Benefits Group, a $5.2 million, or 10% increase in International and a $3.4 million increase in reimbursable expenses billed to clients, partially offset by a $6.8 million, or 16% decrease in Other practice areas in North America, a $5.8 million, or 7% decrease in our Technology Solutions Group and a $1.2 million, or 3% decrease in our Human Capital Group.

    Our Benefits Group experienced reduced revenues for the quarter due to emerging price pressures in our US Central marketplace, while the decrease for our Technology Solutions Group reflected continued weak spending by clients due to the challenging economic environment. These decreases were offset by increases in our International segment, which were due in part to strengthening currencies.

    Salaries and Employee Benefits.

    Salaries and employee benefit expenses for the third quarter of fiscal year 2003 were $100.6 million, compared to $105.4 million for the third quarter of fiscal year 2002, a decrease of $4.8 million, or 5%. The decrease was due to a $5.1 million lower accrual for discretionary compensation and a $1.1 million decrease in base salaries as a result of headcount reductions and attrition in North America, net of modest annual salary increases, partially offset by a $2.1 million increase in pension costs. As a percentage of revenue, salaries and employee benefits decreased from 58.4% to 56.7%, reflecting decreasing costs compared to consistent revenues.

    Salaries and employee benefit expenses for the first nine months of fiscal year 2003 were $299.9 million, compared to $300.6 million for the first nine months of fiscal year 2002, a decrease of $0.7 million. Salaries and employee benefit expenses for the first nine months of fiscal year 2003 include severance charges of $1.8 million related to the Company's targeted job reductions, mainly in our Human Capital and Technology Solutions Groups, all of which has been paid to associates under severance agreements. The decrease, exclusive of this charge, was due to a $4.1 million decrease in the accrual for discretionary compensation and a $4.0 million decrease in base salaries as a result of headcount reductions and attrition in North America, net of modest annual salary increases, partially offset by a $5.7 million increase in pension costs. As a percentage of revenue, salaries and employee benefits decreased from 57.1% to 56.4%. Excluding severance costs, salaries and employee benefit expenses would have been 56.1% of revenue for the first nine months of fiscal year 2003.

    Professional and Subcontracted Services.

    Professional and subcontracted services used in consulting operations for the third quarter of fiscal year 2003 were $11.6 million, compared to $11.3 million for the third quarter of fiscal year 2002, an increase of $0.3 million, or 3%. As a percentage of revenue, professional and subcontracted services increased from 6.3% to 6.5%.

    Professional and subcontracted services were $35.4 million for the first nine months of fiscal year 2003, compared to $35.8 million for the first nine months of fiscal year 2002, a decrease of $0.4 million, or 1%. As a percentage of revenue, professional and subcontracted services decreased from 6.8% to 6.7%. Professional and subcontracted services for the first nine months of fiscal year 2003 include severance charges of $0.2 million related to the Company's targeted job reductions mentioned above, all of which have been paid as of March 31, 2003.

    Occupancy, Communications and Other.

    Occupancy, communications and other expenses for the third quarter of fiscal year 2003 were $27.3 million, unchanged from the prior year. As a percentage of revenue, occupancy, communications and other increased from 15.1% to 15.4%.

    21


    Occupancy, communications and other expenses were $79.4 million for the first nine months of fiscal year 2003, compared to $81.5 million for the first nine months of fiscal year 2002, a decrease of $2.1 million, or 3%. The company implemented successful cost containment strategies during the second quarter of fiscal year 2002 which have continued through the current period, resulting in lower travel, general office and telephone expenses for the year. As a percentage of revenue, occupancy, communications and other decreased from 15.4% to 14.9% for the first nine months of fiscal year 2003.

    General and Administrative Expenses.

    General and administrative expenses for the third quarter of fiscal year 2003 were $13.7 million, compared to $14.0 million for the third quarter of fiscal year 2002, a decrease of $0.3 million, or 2%. The decrease is mainly due to the timing of promotional expenses, which accounted for $0.8 million, partially offset by higher insurance expenses of $0.4 million. As a percentage of revenue, general and administrative expenses decreased from 7.8% to 7.7%.

    General and administrative expenses for the first nine months of fiscal year 2003 were $42.9 million, compared to $41.3 million for the first nine months of fiscal year 2002, an increase of $1.6 million, or 4%. The increase is mainly due to higher insurance expenses and higher promotional and general office expenses of $0.7 million. As a percentage of revenue, general and administrative expenses increased from 7.8% to 8.1%.

    Depreciation and Amortization.

    Depreciation and amortization for the third quarter of fiscal year 2003 was $4.9 million, unchanged from the prior year. As a percentage of revenue, depreciation and amortization remained at 2.7%.

    Depreciation and amortization for the first nine months of fiscal year 2003 was $15.2 million, compared to $15.6 million for the first nine months of fiscal year 2002, a decrease of $0.4 million, or 3%. As a percentage of revenue, depreciation and amortization remained at 2.9%. The decrease in both the three and nine month periods was due to lower purchases of capital assets during the first nine months of fiscal year 2003.

    Interest Income, Net.

    Interest income, net for the third quarter of fiscal year 2003 was $0.1 million, compared to $0.3 million in the prior fiscal year. Interest income, net for the first nine months of fiscal year 2003 was $0.6 million, compared to $1.0 million for the first nine months of fiscal year 2002, a decrease of $0.4 million, or 40%. The decreases were attributable to lower interest rates earned on our cash and cash equivalents.

    Other Non-Operating Income.

    During the first nine months of fiscal year 2003 and fiscal year 2002, the Company received cash payments of $0.5 million and $1.0 million, respectively, in connection with the sale of our U.S. based public retirement business. See Note 5 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for more information about this transaction.

    Income From Affiliates.

    Income from affiliates for the third quarter of fiscal year 2003 was $1.3 million, compared to $0.8 million for the third quarter of fiscal year 2002, an increase of $0.5 million, or 63%. Income from affiliates for the first nine months of fiscal year 2003 was $4.2 million, compared to $2.9 million for the first nine months of fiscal year 2002, an increase of $1.3 million, or 45%. The increase for both the three and nine month periods was due to improved operations of our affiliated captive insurance company, Professional Consultants Insurance Company (PCIC).

    22


    Provision for Income Taxes.

    Provision for income taxes for the first nine months of fiscal year 2003 was $26.0 million, compared to $23.1 million for the first nine months of fiscal year 2002. Our effective tax rate was 41.0% for the first nine months of fiscal year 2003, compared to 40.0% for the first nine months of fiscal year 2002. The change in rate was due to an increase in the effective rate on foreign and state income. We record a tax benefit on foreign net operating loss carryovers and foreign deferred expenses only if it is more likely than not that a benefit will be realized.

    Income From Continuing Operations.

    Income from continuing operations for the third quarter of fiscal year 2003 was $12.4 million, compared to $11.1 million for the third quarter of fiscal year 2002, an increase of $1.3 million, or 12%. As a percentage of revenue, income from continuing operations increased from 6.2% to 7.0%.

    Income from continuing operations for the first nine months of fiscal year 2003 was $37.6 million, compared to $34.7 million for the first nine months of fiscal year 2002, an increase of $2.9 million, or 8%. As a percentage of revenue, income from continuing operations increased from 6.6% to 7.1%.

    Earnings Per Share, Income From Continuing Operations.

    Diluted earnings per share, income from continuing operations for the third quarter of fiscal year 2003 was $0.37, compared to $0.33 for the third quarter of fiscal year 2002. Diluted earnings per share, income from continuing operations for the first nine months of fiscal year 2003 was $1.13, compared to $1.04 for the first nine months of fiscal year 2002.

    Discontinued Operations.

    During the third quarter of fiscal year 2003, the Company reduced the amount of its accrual for losses from the exit from Wellspring, the Company's benefits administration outsourcing business by $11.4 million, net of associated tax expense of $4.7 million. See Note 8 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for more information related to Wellspring and the reduction of the provision.

    Liquidity and Capital Resources

    Our cash and cash equivalents at March 31, 2003 totaled $119.8 million, compared to $96.0 million at June 30, 2002, representing an increase of $23.8 million through the third quarter of fiscal year 2003. During the first nine months of fiscal year 2003, we paid $45.2 million in previously accrued discretionary compensation, paid $26.1 million in corporate taxes and contributed $12.0 million to our U.S. defined benefit pension plan. These outflows of cash were offset by positive cash flow from consulting operations.

    Our non U.S. operations do not materially impact liquidity or capital resources as they are substantially self-sufficient for their working capital needs. At March 31, 2003, $25.8 million of the total cash balance of $119.8 million was held outside of North America, which we have the ability to utilize, if necessary. There are no significant repatriation restrictions other than local or U.S. taxes associated with repatriation.

    Cash From Operating Activities.

    Cash from operating activities for the first nine months of fiscal year 2003 was $43.5 million, compared to cash from operating activities of $11.8 million for the first nine months of fiscal year 2002. The variance is mainly due to a smaller fiscal year-end bonus payment, net of accruals of $8.0 million compared to the prior year, improved collections on receivables of $10.5 million, lower payments to retirees of $10.3 million and the timing of annual payments of insurance premiums, which contributed $5.8 million to the increase in cash from operations, partially offset by the $12.0 million contribution the Company made to the U.S. defined benefit pension plan during the second quarter of fiscal year 2003, net of expense accruals. The allowance for doubtful accounts increased $0.2 million and the allowance for work in process increased $0.1 million from June 30, 2002 to March 31, 2003. The number of days of accounts receivable and work in process outstanding was 76 at March 31, 2003, down from 84 at March 31, 2002.

    23


    Cash Used in Investing Activities.

    Cash used in investing activities for the first nine months of fiscal year 2003 was $14.8 million, compared to $24.0 million for the first nine months of fiscal year 2002. The decrease can be primarily attributed to lower purchases of capital assets of $8.7 million and lower acquisition related payments of $3.1 million.

    Cash Used in Financing Activities.

    Cash used in financing activities for the first nine months of fiscal year 2003 consisted primarily of payments of $11.4 million for the repurchase of 546,066 shares of common stock, including $2.0 million from associates during the first quarter of fiscal year 2003, net of $4.8 million representing 291,653 shares that the Company re-issued under the Employee Stock Purchase Plan.

    Capital Commitments

    Expenditures of capital funds were $16.1 million for the first nine months of fiscal year 2003. Anticipated commitments of capital funds are estimated at $8.2 million for the remainder of fiscal year 2003, mainly for computer hardware purchases, office relocations and renovations, development and upgrade of financial and retirement systems and acquisition-related payments. We expect cash from operations to adequately provide for these cash needs.

    We lease office space, furniture and selected computer equipment under operating lease agreements with terms ranging from one to ten years. Future expected payments are as follows (in thousands):

    Fiscal

    Year

    Remaining

    Lease

    Commitments

    2003

    $

    9,733

    2004

    35,207

    2005

    32,374

    2006

    29,520

    2007

    26,271

    2008

    24,891

    Thereafter

    68,484

       

    $

    226,480

       

    Management has determined that there is not a large concentration of leases that will expire in any one fiscal year. Consequently, management anticipates that any increase in future expenses will be mainly market driven.

    24


    Guarantees

    The Company continues to guarantee certain leases for office premises and equipment for Wellspring. At March 31, 2003, minimum remaining payments guaranteed under these leases, which expire at various dates through 2007, total $26.1 million, excluding anticipated sublease income. See Note 8 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for more information related to Wellspring.

    In connection with the establishment of our alliance with Watson Wyatt LLP in 1995, the Company agreed to guarantee Watson Wyatt LLP's performance under a lease for office space in London that expires in 2015. Payments by Watson Wyatt LLP under the lease total £ 1.4 million (or approximately $2.2 million per year). We also granted Watson Wyatt LLP an option to return the leased space to our UK subsidiary in 2009. If Watson Wyatt LLP exercises this option, the Company would attempt to sublease the space at the then-current market rates.

    Additionally, the Company guarantees a credit facility which provides loans to associates for stock purchased under our former Stock Purchase Program. This stock purchase program was discontinued in conjunction with our initial public offering in October 2000. As a result, amounts guaranteed under the facility permanently decrease as the loans are repaid. The maximum available borrowings and aggregate outstanding balances under this facility were $1.1 million at March 31, 2003 and $2.9 million at June 30, 2002. A total of 1,070,000 and 2,731,000 Watson Wyatt & Company Holdings shares were pledged by stockholders to collateralize these loans at March 31, 2003, and June 30, 2002, respectively.

    Credit Agreement

    The Company entered into a new credit agreement with a syndicate of banks effective June 25, 2002. As a result of this agreement, we have a $100.0 million revolving credit facility at an interest rate that varies with LIBOR and/or the Prime Rate, and is based on our leverage ratio, as defined by the agreement. We are charged a quarterly commitment fee, currently 0.25% of the facility, that varies with our financial leverage and is calculated on the unused portion of the credit facility. No amounts were outstanding under the Company's revolving credit facility as of March 31, 2003 or June 30, 2002. Credit under the facility is available upon demand, although the credit facility requires us to observe certain covenants (including requirements for minimum net worth, which act to restrict dividends, and other financial and restrictive covenants) and is collateralized with a pledge of stock of material subsidiaries. At March 31, 2003, we were in compliance with all covenants under the credit facility. A portion of the revolving facility is used to support required letters of credit issued under the credit line. As a result, $5.8 million of the facility is currently unavailable for operating needs. We are also charged a fee for outstanding letters of credit that also fluctuates based on our leverage ratio. The credit facility is scheduled to expire on June 25, 2005.

    Risk Management

    As a part of our overall risk management program, we carry customary commercial insurance policies, including commercial general liability, employment practices liability, as well as claims-made professional liability insurance with a self-insured retention of $1 million per claim, which provides coverage for professional liability claims including the cost of defending such claims. Our primary insurance coverage beyond this retention is written by an affiliated captive insurance company owned by us and two other professional services firms. The first $5 million of coverage has a premium structure which provides for recovering from the firm defending the claim approximately 75% of any loss up to $5 million. This recovery occurs through increased insurance premiums over the following five years. The remaining 25% of any loss up to $5 million is a risk borne by the captive insurance company, which carries reinsurance in the commercial markets for losses above $5 million. The Company has provided for the self-insured retention and for the prospective premium increases where specific estimated losses for known claims in excess of $1 million are considered probable and reasonably estimable.

    25


    Although the Company maintains professional liability insurance coverage, this insurance does not cover claims made after expiration of our current insurance contracts. Generally accepted accounting principles require that we record a liability for Incurred But Not Reported (IBNR) professional liability claims if they are estimable and probable, and for which we have not yet contracted for insurance coverage. The Company uses actuarial assumptions to estimate and record its IBNR liability and has a $12.5 million IBNR liability recorded as of March 31, 2003.

    In light of increasing worldwide litigation, including litigation against professionals, the Company has been implementing a requirement that all client relationships be documented by engagement letters containing specific risk mitigation clauses that were not included in all historical client agreements. Over 90% of the Company's U.S. corporate clients have signed engagement letters including mitigation clauses, and initiatives to complete that process in the U.S. and elsewhere are underway. The Company is taking actions to disengage from certain client relationships where satisfactory engagement terms cannot be achieved.

    Current insurance market conditions include increases in premium cost, higher insurance attachment points and reductions in aggregate excess coverages, trends which are anticipated to continue and which we expect to be reflected in our future annual insurance renewals. In anticipation of the possibility of future reductions in risk transfer from PCIC to reinsurers, as well as the trend toward a generally hardening insurance market, the firms which own PCIC, including the Company, have been increasing PCIC's capital in fiscal 2002 and 2003.

    Disclaimer Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

    This filing contains certain statements that are "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including, but not limited to the following: Note 7 on pages 9 and 10; Note 13 on pages 13 and 14; Note 14 on page 14 and 15; Note 15 on page 15; Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates on pages 18, 19 and 20; Capital Commitments on page 24; and Part II, Item 1 "Legal Proceedings" on page 27. In some cases, you can identify these statements and other forward-looking statements in this filing by words such as "may," "will," "expect," "anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "plan," "intend," "continue," or similar words. You should read these statements carefully because they contain projections of our future results of operations or financial condition, or state other "forward-looking" information. A number of risks and uncertainties exist which could cause actual results to differ materially from the results reflected in these forward-looking statements. Such factors include, but are not limited to, our continued ability to recruit and retain highly qualified associates, outcomes of litigation, a significant decrease in the demand for the consulting services we offer as a result of changing economic conditions or other factors, actions by competitors offering human resources consulting services, including public accounting and consulting firms, technology consulting firms and internet/intranet development firms, regulatory, legislative and technological developments that may affect the demand for or costs of our services and other factors discussed under "risk factors" in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2002, which was filed with the SEC on September 25, 2002 and may be accessed via EDGAR on the SEC's web site at www.sec.gov. These statements are based on assumptions that may not come true. All forward-looking disclosure is speculative by its nature. The Company undertakes no obligation to update any of the forward-looking information included in this report, whether as a result of new information, future events, changed expectations or otherwise.


    ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

    We are exposed to market risks in the ordinary course of business. These risks include interest rate risk and foreign currency exchange risk. We have examined our exposure to these risks and concluded that none of our exposures in these areas are material to fair values, cash flows or earnings.

    26


    ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

    The Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer of the Company evaluated our disclosure controls and procedures for the quarter ended March 31, 2003 within 90 days of the filing of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q and have concluded that such controls have been effectively designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed has been accumulated and communicated as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding such disclosure. There have been no significant changes in our internal controls or in other factors that could significantly affect these controls subsequent to this review. Review and evaluation of disclosure controls and procedures is an ongoing process that we will continue to refine as we perform quarterly evaluations.


    PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

    ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS.

    From time to time, we are a party to various lawsuits, arbitrations or mediations that arise in the ordinary course of business. These disputes typically involve claims relating to the rendering of professional services or employment matters. Management believes, based on currently available information, that the results of all pending claims against us will not have a material adverse affect on the Company.

    Toussaint, et al. v. James, et al. Union leaders, in their capacity as the trustees of a pension plan for the union leadership, brought suit in December 2001 in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York against the former union leaders and Watson Wyatt alleging damages suffered in reliance on our actuarial work and breaches of fiduciary duties owed by the former union leaders. The former union leaders also have raised a malpractice claim against its former law firm. The claim against Watson Wyatt is allegedly in the $4 million range. Mediation will continue if the claims are not resolved by motions pending before the court.

    New Jersey Coalition of Auto Retailers Insurance Group Trust (NJCAR). Watson Wyatt and five other service providers of NJCAR, an insolvent group health insurance provider, are defending claims brought in April 2002 by NJCAR's receiver and its former trustees in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey alleging that losses resulting from the insolvency are partly attributable to its former service providers. The court-mandated mediation process is continuing. The amount of alleged damages against all the defendants is unclear, but appears to be in the $20 million range in the aggregate against all defendants.


    ITEM 2. CHANGES IN SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS

    Initial Public Offering

    The Company had three classes of common stock outstanding after completion of our initial public offering ("IPO") in October 2000: Class A, B-1 and B-2. Class A shares are freely transferable. Class B-1 and B-2 shares had transfer restrictions which expired on October 16, 2001 and October 16, 2002, respectively. As a result, 9,956,140 shares of our Class B-1 common stock and 12,745,015 shares of our Class B-2 common stock automatically converted into Class A common stock on those respective dates.

    In addition to the transfer restriction periods described above, we entered into agreements providing for additional transfer restrictions with major stockholders, executive officers and employee directors. As a result of these agreements, 4,193,475 Class A shares are currently restricted, of which 2,096,747 will become freely transferable in October 2003 and 2,096,728 will become freely transferable in October 2004.

     

    27



    Other Conversions

    In August 2002, the Board authorized the conversion of 123,015 Class B-2 shares for repurchase by the Company from shareholders in September 2002 at the then prevailing market price.

    ITEM 3. DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES

    None.

    ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS

    None.

    ITEM 5. OTHER INFORMATION

    None.

    28


    ITEM 6. EXHIBITS AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K.

    a.

    Exhibits

       3.1

    Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Watson Wyatt & Company Holdings1

       3.2

    Amended and Restated Bylaws of Watson Wyatt & Company Holdings2

       4

    Form of Certificate Representing Common Stock1

       10.1

    Amended Credit Agreement Among Bank of America, N.A. and Others dated June 25, 20023

       10.2

    Consent of Bank of America, N.A. 4

       10.3

    Agreement with David B. Friend, M.D. dated October 22, 19991

       10.4

    Senior Officer Deferred Compensation Plan4

       10.5

    Form of agreement among Watson Wyatt & Company, Watson Wyatt & Company Holdings and employee directors, executive officers and significant stockholders restricting the transfer of shares5

    99.1

    Certification Pursuant to Title 18, U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

    b.

    Reports on Form 8-K

    (i) On May 7, 2003, the Company filed a Current Report on Form 8-K, which included a press release dated the same day, in which we reported our third quarter fiscal year 2003 earnings.

    (ii) On March 18, 2003, the Company filed a Current Report on Form 8-K, which reported that David B. Friend, M.D., a Vice President and Division Manager of the Company has adopted a written 10b5-1 Sales Plan pursuant to Securities and Exchange Commission Rule 10b5-1.

     

     

     

     

     

     

    __________________________

     

    1Incorporated by reference from Registrant's Form S-3/A, Amendment No. 1 (File No. 33-394973), filed on March 17, 2000

    2Incorporated by reference from Registrant's Form 10-Q, filed on May 2, 2001

    3Incorporated by reference from Registrant's Form 10-K, filed on September 25, 2002

    4Incorporated by reference from Registrant's Form 10-K, filed on August 20, 2001

    5Incorporated by reference from Registrant's Form S-3/A, Amendment No. 5 (File No. 33-394973), filed on September 14, 2000

     

    29



    Signatures

    Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

    Watson Wyatt & Company Holdings
    (Registrant)

    /S/ John J. Haley              

     

    May 9, 2003

    Name:

    John J. Haley

    Date

    Title:

    President and Chief

     

     

    Executive Officer

     

     

     

     

    /S/ Carl D. Mautz             

     

    May 9, 2003

    Name:

    Carl D. Mautz

    Date

    Title:

    Vice President and Chief

     

     

    Financial Officer

     

     

     

     

    /S/ Peter L. Childs            

     

    May 9, 2003

    Name:

    Peter L. Childs

    Date

    Title:

    Controller

     

     

    30


    CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO

    18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350,

    AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO

    SECTION 302 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

     

    I, John J. Haley, certify that:

    1. I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of Watson Wyatt & Company Holdings;

    2. Based on my knowledge, this quarterly report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this quarterly report;

    3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this quarterly report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of Watson Wyatt & Company Holdings as of, and for, the periods presented in this quarterly report;

    4. Watson Wyatt & Company Holdings' other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-14 and 15d-14) for Watson Wyatt & Company Holdings and we have:

    1. Designed such disclosure controls and procedures to ensure that material information relating to us, including our consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this quarterly report is being prepared;

    2. Evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures as of a date within 90 days prior to the filing date of this quarterly report ("Evaluation Date"); and

    3. Presented in this quarterly report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures based on our evaluation as of the Evaluation Date;

    1. Watson Wyatt & Company Holdings' other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation, to our auditors and the audit committee of the Board of Directors:

    1. All significant deficiencies in the design or operation of internal controls which could adversely affect our ability to record, process, summarize and report financial data and have identified for our auditors any material weaknesses in internal controls; and

    2. Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in our internal controls; and

    1. Watson Wyatt & Company Holdings' other certifying officer and I have indicated in this quarterly report whether or not there were significant changes in internal controls or in other factors that could significantly affect internal controls subsequent to the date of our most recent evaluation, including any corrective actions with regard to significant deficiencies and material weaknesses.

    Date: May 9, 2003

    /S/ John J. Haley

    John J. Haley

    President and Chief Executive Officer

    31


    CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO

    18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350,

    AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO

    SECTION 302 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

     

    I, Carl D. Mautz, certify that:

    1. I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of Watson Wyatt & Company Holdings;

    2. Based on my knowledge, this quarterly report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this quarterly report;

    3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this quarterly report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of Watson Wyatt & Company Holdings as of, and for, the periods presented in this quarterly report;

    4. Watson Wyatt & Company Holdings' other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-14 and 15d-14) for Watson Wyatt & Company Holdings and we have:

    1. Designed such disclosure controls and procedures to ensure that material information relating to us, including our consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this quarterly report is being prepared;

    2. Evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures as of a date within 90 days prior to the filing date of this quarterly report ("Evaluation Date"); and

    3. Presented in this quarterly report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures based on our evaluation as of the Evaluation Date;

    1. Watson Wyatt & Company Holdings' other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation, to our auditors and the audit committee of the Board of Directors:

    1. All significant deficiencies in the design or operation of internal controls which could adversely affect our ability to record, process, summarize and report financial data and have identified for our auditors any material weaknesses in internal controls; and

    2. Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in our internal controls; and

    1. Watson Wyatt & Company Holdings' other certifying officer and I have indicated in this quarterly report whether or not there were significant changes in internal controls or in other factors that could significantly affect internal controls subsequent to the date of our most recent evaluation, including any corrective actions with regard to significant deficiencies and material weaknesses.

    Date: May 9, 2003

    /S/ Carl D. Mautz

    Carl D. Mautz

    Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

    32


    Exhibit 99.1

    CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO
    18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350,
    AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO
    SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

     

    Each of the undersigned hereby certifies, in his capacity as an officer of Watson Wyatt & Company Holdings (the "Company"), for purposes of 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that to the best of his knowledge:

     

    Date: May 9, 2003

    /S/ John J. Haley

    John J. Haley

    President and Chief Executive Officer

     

    /S/ Carl D. Mautz

    Carl D. Mautz

    Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

    A signed original of this written statement required by Section 906 has been provided to Watson Wyatt & Company Holdings and will be retained by Watson Wyatt & Company Holdings and furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission or its staff upon request.