Merkle (www.merkle.com), a leading technology enabled, data driven customer relationship marketing (CRM) firm and the nation’s largest privately held agency, announces the appointment of Andrew Hoeberichts to senior vice president and practice leader of Merkle’s Travel, Media and Entertainment practice. In this role, Hoeberichts will focus on articulating how Merkle’s unique blend of data, analytic and technical expertise will enable the agency’s clients within those sectors to address today’s marketing challenges. By building a holistic view of the customer and leveraging Merkle’s Connected CRM (cCRM)™ solutions, Merkle can drive measurable business outcomes and create competitive advantage for its clients.

“Merkle is on the front lines of the data-driven marketing evolution. In today’s market, there is no one better equipped to redefine how marketers build trust-based and interactive experiences with their customers,” said Hoeberichts. “I am excited to join the Merkle team and help write the next chapter on the relationship between brands and their consumers.”

Andrew Hoeberichts is a seasoned executive with over 20 years of integrated marketing experience, working with a broad spectrum of clients including: Disney Parks and Resorts, Virgin America, Sony Computer Entertainment America (SCEA), ESPN, Disney Cruise Lines and Dish Network. Andrew joins Merkle from Carat, one of the world’s leading media agencies and part of the Dentsu global agency network, where he was SVP, Managing Director of Carat San Francisco.  Andrew was responsible for the delivery of strategic account services in addition to playing a leadership role in the evolution of Aegis Media’s digital media trading desk, emerging programmatic video and mobile capabilities. Prior to Carat, Andrew spent five years with Digitas|Modem Media where he was vice president, director of strategy.

“Andrew’s deep knowledge of digital and CRM in the Travel and Media industries, along with his track record of success in business development, will be a tremendous asset to us in this high-potential market,” said John Lee, executive vice president, vertical markets for Merkle. “Andrew will be an asset to Merkle as we continue to develop this practice and build long-lasting, strategic relationships with our clients.”