Eric Fridman

Executive, Career, and Life Coach | Adjunct Professor

Eric Fridman is a prominent career coach and educator associated with Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management. He is the founder of Fridman Associates LLC, where he specializes in executive coaching, focusing on leadership development and organizational change. With over 30 years of experience in marketing, communications, and strategy, Fridman has held significant roles at Northwestern University, including assistant dean of marketing and communications for both the Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences and the Kellogg School of Management.1 2

Education and Professional Background

Education: Fridman earned a bachelor's degree in European history from Denison University, a master's degree in humanities from the University of Chicago, and an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management. He also holds a leadership coaching certification from Northwestern's Master of Science in Learning and Organizational Change (MSLOC) program.1 2 3
Career Path: Before transitioning to academia, Fridman spent 20 years in various strategic roles within telecommunications and computer networking companies. His shift to higher education led him to serve in several senior communications roles at Northwestern for 15 years before establishing his coaching practice.1 2

Teaching and Coaching

Fridman teaches graduate-level courses at Northwestern, including "Accelerating Learning and Performance" and "Building Transformative Client Relationships." He also coaches high-impact teams in Kellogg's Executive MBA program and provides career coaching for alumni.2 3 His coaching approach emphasizes mindfulness and contemplative practices as tools for personal and professional growth.2

Community Involvement

Beyond his professional commitments, Fridman is active in community service. He serves as president of The Chasing Hope Foundation, which advocates for supportive housing for children with mental health challenges. Additionally, he volunteers with One Million Degrees, helping low-income community college students succeed.1 2

Personal Life

Fridman resides in Glenview, Illinois, with his wife and two adult children. He is known for his engaging teaching style and dedication to fostering leadership skills among his students and clients.1 2

Experience

Founder at Fridman Associates (January 2015 - Present)

Career Coach, Leadership Coach, Team Facilitator at Northwestern University - Kellogg School of Management (August 2021 - Present)

Education

Certification in Organizational and Leadership Coaching, Northwestern University School of Education and Social Policy (April 2014); Basic Program in Liberal Education for Adults, The University of Chicago Graham School (September 1988)