BESTMINDS Executive Search is pleased to announce the addition of Dr. Oliver Knörzer to the team. The biologist with decades of experience in the medical technology and pharma industry has been part of our recruitment consultancy as a Senior Partner since October 2024. In the following interview, he provides interesting insights into his career and his way of working.
Gladly! I grew up on the banks of the Rhine and Neckar rivers, surrounded by nature and in the woods of the Black Forest. This environment sparked my interest in biology at an early age. Ecological topics such as water- and air pollution, or forest dieback were very present in my youth and ultimately also played a role in my decision to study biology. Physiological processes have always fascinated me, and I wanted to better understand the interrelationships, especially the adaptability of life on our planet, which has already survived many environmental disasters. I then completed my biology degree in Constance and did my doctorate in plant physiology. My career path then led me into the life sciences.
In my private life, I am the father of three children and an avid hiker. In my spare time, I play the guitar and am passionate about intuitive archery. I really enjoy my regular training rounds on the 3D course, which simulate hunting-like situations. Shooting with a simple bow without technical aids requires physical strength as well as mental focus and stamina - for me the perfect balance to my professional life.
For family reasons, I decided to move into the industry and initially began my career in pharma sales. After just two years, I took on a management position in a medical biotechnology company. From there, my path led me into Ophthalmology, where MIS, pharma, biotechnology and digital imaging come together to optimize patient care with innovative procedures. I worked in this field, which is very close to my heart, for over 20 years and was able to make the step into international management over time. I have gained experience in various companies and positions - from start-ups to global corporations.
In addition to my professional activities, I completed further education as a trainer and coach specializing in sales. Today, these skills not only help me to market products, but also to understand people better, respond specifically to their needs and support them in their professional and personal development.
A particular focus of my work has always been change management, which is unfortunately far too often seen as simply managing loss, looking backwards instead of forwards. However, this is all about proactive and visionary leadership - what I call change leadership. This calls for managers who accompany their team through change processes in a motivating and solution-oriented manner. Because if you want commitment, you must create meaning.
The healthcare system is facing numerous challenges, particularly in the area of digitalization and reimbursement for innovative therapies and diagnostic procedures. Unfortunately, the healthcare system in this country is not very innovative and I would like to see more change leadership from politicians. For example, modern digital imaging procedures are often not reimbursed by health insurance companies. This makes it difficult for companies, clinics and practices to establish innovative devices in patient care. Overcoming such hurdles requires not only strong management, but also strategic creativity and flexibility. In these processes, I see my role as helping companies to find the right specialists who can overcome such challenges.
I love challenges, especially when they arise spontaneously and need to be solved quickly. Routine, on the other hand, is less exciting. That's why I'm always questioning the status quo and looking for opportunities to change things for the better. This attitude has helped me to achieve professional success and that's exactly what appeals to me about BESTMINDS.
After so many years in the industry, I wanted to take on a new challenge and create something new. I had known BESTMINDS for a long time in a professional context and knew that this was the right environment for me. After 25 years in management, I wanted to break out of the routine once again and the decision to join BESTMINDS was quickly made. Here I can fully live out my passion for change and innovation and at the same time contribute my knowledge and experience from start-ups to global corporations.
Empathy is a priority for me. It's about recognizing the person behind the application or job offer. I take the time to talk to both companies and candidates in detail to find the perfect match. The requirements profile of a candidate must be agreed in detail with the client and it is important that all aspects are taken into account - professional skills as well as soft skills. This is the only way to create long-term and successful partnerships.
Dr. Oliver Knörzer
Senior Partner
