HOW IT ALL BEGAN

Occam was founded in 2012 on a simple yet uncommon belief: executive search could be more creative, thoughtful, and principled than the industry norm.

After a 25-year career shaping leadership at Fidelity Investments, William Holodnak partnered with his son, John, to build a firm defined by focus, judgment, and purpose — not scale for scale’s sake.

Today, Occam is a global executive search firm trusted by founders, boards, and investors in high-stakes leadership moments. We combine seasoned judgment with a creative search strategy to deliver leaders with proven track records, real impact, and long-term value.

Built with intention. Evolving with the same clarity that shaped day one.

Founder, Occam Global

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VALUES YOU’LL SEE EMBODIED IN OUR PRACTICE

PROFESSIONALISM

Driven by discipline and objectivity

TRANSPARENCY

Guided by open communication

CREATIVITY

Inspired by both improvised and structured thinking

ETHICS

Fueled by an unrelenting commitment to results

BEHIND OCCAM

We built our firm on the pillars of objectivity, undiluted ethics, and enlightened aggression.

The medieval philosopher William of Occam serves as the firm's adopted patron saint. William spoke plainly and his thoughts were infused with rigor and humanity. These qualities yielded elevated ideas that advanced Western philosophy but also got him into a few dust ups with the Vatican.

His enduring concept, Occam's Razor, embodies an unrelenting focus on essentials in problem-solving. His and our solutions strive for elegant simplicity.

View Case Studies

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OUR PROCESS TO FIND THE BEST LEADER

DAY 1

DAY 3

DAYS 14–90

DAYS 90–120

DAYS 120

INITIATION

Defining the project scope, objectives, and deliverables.

Job Description

Candidate profile

Recruiting Strategy

Candidate Phenotypes

Illustrative Examples

PLANNING

Project plans are created.

In-Depth Profiles of Preferred Initial Candidate Prospects

EXECUTION

Project plan is put in action and the cycle of execution repeats until the finalists are identified

Client Feedback on Interviews

New Prospects Entered into the Process

PRE-CLOSURE

Finalist prioritization and closure strategy

Formal & Informal References Conducted

CLOSURE

Candidate Negotiation & Closure

Signed Offer Letter

FAQ

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR DISTINCTIVE APPROACH

Is Occam Global exclusively a life sciences executive recruiter?

While we specialize in and are known for life sciences executive search, our experience extends to high-growth deep technology companies and venture capital portfolio companies, where we apply our rigorous executive search methodology.

What is life sciences executive search and how does Occam Global’s dual focus on tech and life sciences create a competitive advantage?

Life sciences executive search focuses on placing senior leaders and board members in sectors like biotechnology, pharmaceutical, and medical devices. Occam Global's unique advantage is our dual expertise in both life sciences and technology, allowing us to excel in TechBio and Deep Tech executive search. This positions us to successfully fill complex roles at the intersection of these two industries, which is critical for future innovation.

How does partnering with Occam Global specifically benefit my life science or deep tech organization?

We offer more than just candidate lists. Our specialized knowledge, deep industry experience, and extensive network across life sciences and deep tech ensure we find leaders with the precise technical skills, cultural fit, and strategic vision to drive your innovation and growth. Furthermore, our dedicated partnership and venture funding arm provides unparalleled mentorship and consultative services, a strategic resource you won't find at a traditional search firm.