After a career of 15 years in academics and extensive professional work experience in several large multinational companies, Erich founded Vivaldi Group. He is actively engaged in many consulting projects for leading companies and brands. In addition to his consulting work, Erich does extensive research on global brands and the formulation of corporate and business-unit level strategies. A sought-after speaker, he also conducts executive-level conferences and workshops around the world in English, German, and Spanish. Erich is a published thought leader and his book Brand Leadership, co-written with David A. Aaker and translated in 14 languages, is considered a groundbreaking discussion on the recent developments in brand strategy. He has completed a new book, Hidden in Plain Sight, that focuses on the role of brands in creating economic value and growth for firms. Erich is also the author of more than 40 articles and case studies in leading academic and business journals, including Harvard Business Review, Sloan Management Review, and Business Week. Erich has held academic faculty positions in the US and Europe and taught in various executive programs in Latin America, Asia and Africa. He holds masters and doctorate degrees from universities in Germany and the U.S., and completed his education with a Post Doctorate Fellowship at Harvard Business School.