As of November 2025, Arthur Dobma has joined the global ERA network as a partner. In his profile, you can read a brief overview of his time before ERA and the expertise he brings with him. To get to know our new team members a little better, we ask each new partner 6 questions. Read Arthur’s candid response:
1. Why this new step in your career?
After more than 20 years in permanent positions at large technology companies, I felt it was time to reflect on how I wanted to proceed with my professional life. I decided to temporarily take on interim and consulting work. During those short-term assignments, I discovered what truly motivates me: being able to decide for myself where to apply my knowledge and skills, without the rigid frameworks and decision-making structures of a large organization. But what I missed was collaborating with like-minded people. And also the feeling of being part of something bigger.
When I came into contact with ERA Group, I immediately recognized that I could find that balance there: freedom, challenge, and entrepreneurship within a strong, professional organization. ERA offers the ideal combination of independence and collaboration with experienced colleagues who are all pursuing the same goal.
2. Was this also what you wanted to be as a child?
From a young age, one thing was clear to me: just like my father, I wanted to become a businessman. I didn’t know exactly what that entailed back then. But it seemed exciting, interesting, and full of possibilities.
I discovered early on that business and sales came naturally to me. At school, I sold candy that I’d bought with my allowance, naturally making a small profit. Looking back, I can say that that business acumen was there from the start, and that entrepreneurship has remained a constant thread ever since.
3. Every career has its ups and downs. What are you proud of? And what would you do over?
When I look back on my career, I do so with a big smile. I wouldn’t have wanted to do it any other way.
I’m proud of the leading companies I’ve worked for and the opportunities they gave me to develop myself. I’ve collaborated with colleagues who’ve inspired me in all sorts of ways. And especially at SAP, I had the chance to look behind the scenes at many small and large companies. I’m now bringing all those experiences—both professional and personal—to my new challenge at ERA.
4. What kind of (work) challenge would you jump at?
I’m a driving force and a go-getter. I get energized by situations where things can be done differently or better, and I like to take the lead in those situations. Environments where everything stays the same don’t suit me as well. I find the most rewarding assignments to be those where there’s a bit of friction—where something is stuck or not running smoothly—and where you work with a team to make the right adjustments to get things back on track. The greater the challenge and the opportunity to make a real difference, the more I’m in my element.
5. Who is your biggest role model?
Someone who has really impressed me is Bill Mc
Dermott, former CEO of SAP. Not only because of his leadership but also because of his personal story. How he worked his way up from an ordinary background in New York to become one of the world’s top CEOs—I find that incredibly inspiring. But what touches me most of all is how, after a serious accident in which he lost an eye, he managed to bounce back almost immediately. To me, he is a wonderful example of true resilience and a strong mindset. For those interested: his book
Winners Dream is highly recommended.
6. What is your ERA dream?
I hope to have a great time and build wonderful collaborations. If, in a few years, I can say that I’ve established a solid, sustainable practice together with my fellow partners—with satisfied clients, long-term relationships, and plenty of fun along the way—then my ERA dream will have come true.
ERA is delighted that Arthur Dobma is joining the network and wishes him a successful future, inspired by his motto: 'Every shot counts — so make each one matter.'
