Chiltern Acquires Ockham

Chiltern has acquired Ockham and the companies will merge their operations, resulting in expanded service offerings in the areas of oncology; Biopharmaceutical services with global reach, including therapeutic expertise in respiratory, ophthalmology, infectious disease, vaccines and dermatology; and Global Functional Service Provider (FSP)/Sourcing provision specializing in solutions across clinical, regulatory, medical and biometrics. Financial terms were not disclosed.
 
Ockham’s management team will join the management of the enlarged Chiltern Group. Chiltern’s chief executive officer Jim Esinhart, Ph.D. will retain his post, with Ockham’s chief executive officer, James V. Baker, becoming chief development officer. Nick Thornton will remain chairman.
 
Dr. James Esinhart commented, “This merger is a natural progression towards our strategic goal of becoming the premier specialized mid-tier CRO. Throughout this process I have been extremely impressed by the skill and professionalism of Ockham’s employees, the quality services they deliver, and the vision of the leadership team. There is a perfect strategic fit between our companies and I’m excited to work with the entire Ockham team to ensure a seamless continuation in the delivery of high quality services to all of the combined company’s clients.”
 
Mr. Baker said, “In Ockham’s continuing progression toward building the top niche oncology CRO, our joining with Chiltern has been an easy choice, allowing us to leverage Chiltern’s global reach and highly developed staffing business in Europe, both of which are complementary to Ockham’s deep oncology expertise and source business in the US. We are fortunate to have found the ideal partner with a complete understanding and commitment to the unique needs of our emerging biotech clientele.”