As a partner in Kearney’s New York office, Brian Ehrig is an expert in competitive and operational strategies—an area that is also relevant in his personal life as an endurance sports enthusiast. Brian has completed two Ironman Triathlons and more than 20 Half Ironman races. “I find that I’m better when I’m competing,” he says. His competitive nature and push for continuous improvement fuel his work in Kearney’s Consumer and Retail Practice. 

Brian began his career focused on operational improvements in electronics manufacturing and distribution centers. Over time, he turned his attention to the apparel and footwear industry, especially with companies that make their own products. Now, he’s an expert in the end-to-end process of creating products and getting them into consumers’ hands. Brian also does a lot of work with sourcing finished goods, helping his clients understand their product cost structures and reduce their cost of goods sold. 

“I’m especially passionate about sustainability,” he says. “Eighty percent of textiles end up in landfills, so this is a huge topic for my clients. We have a real opportunity to make a positive change in this area.” Brian is also a board member with the nonprofit Soles4Souls, a global organization focused on alleviating poverty by distributing new and used shoes and clothing.

Brian earned a bachelor’s degree in supply chain management from Arizona State University and an MBA from the Darden Graduate School of Business at the University of Virginia.