He is based at the office in Gothenburg, where he lives with his family. Born and raised in The Netherlands, Eric moved to Sweden four years ago. He entered the world of intellectual property by pure coincidence; one of his part-time jobs as a student was at an IP firm. Apparently it stuck. And for that we couldn’t be happier. Welcome Eric!
Q: Eric, please tell us a little more about yourself.
A:I have over ten years working experience in IP and IP-related software. For instance from Onel trademarks and Knijff & partners in the Netherlands. I held positions in finance and project management at these companies, as well as working in product development including trademark watching systems and IP docketing systems. I moved from Amsterdam in 2007 to work as product responsible at an Ipendo competitor. And I used to study chemistry, as well as Scandinavian languages and medieval history.
Q: What’s it been like so far to work at Ipendo?
A:It’s extremely easy to fit in. It took only a couple of weeks to feel part of the group. There are many driven colleagues, which creates a great team-like feeling.
Q: What challenges do you foresee?
A: First to continue the change in the way of thinking about how IP systems work. Most solutions have the same kind of setup, with files (cases) in the center. The goal is to instead place the user and their way of working in the center, to simplify and streamline processes and flows. On the other hand, we have many technical changes to deal with: iPads and tablets, smartphones and cloud computing have become realities in a relatively short period. Factoring this into development creates a whole different set of challenges.
Q: What is your vision for the future?
A: A platform that seamlessly combines IP-related modules and products with docketing and external communications, integrated decision making, financial tracking and budgeting. In other words, to see our solution as an invaluable part of any IP firm, anywhere in the world.
Q: What do you like to do when you’re not working?
A:I like playing guitar and singing, reading, scuba diving – although that happens too seldom – and traveling.
Q: Finally, pick a word that best describes you.
A: Inquisitive … extremely inquisitive.