Eric Nichols is an Executive Producer and Director of Creative Development at Smartypants, an Academy Award® Nominated production company based in New York. With a strong passion for storytelling and a keen eye for creative excellence, Eric plays a pivotal role in overseeing a wide range of documentary, narrative, and commercial projects. As the Director of Creative Development, he has contributed to the company's reputation for producing high-quality and impactful work with vital purpose across mediums.

In his current role, Eric finds great joy in launching projects. From nurturing a seed of an idea to witnessing its flourishing fruition, Eric thrives on the collaborative process.

Eric's notable achievements include serving as an Executive Producer of the Academy Award® Nominated documentary, STRANGER AT THE GATE, a powerful exploration of growing radicalization in America. This thought-provoking film, directed by Joshua Seftel and Executive Produced by Nobel Peace Prize laureate Malala Yousafzai, has garnered critical acclaim, with Sandy Kenyon of WABC calling it "a story so remarkable it could restore your faith in humanity," and the Washington Post selecting it as their 2022 Short Documentary Critic's Pick, describing it as "profoundly moving."

Additionally, Eric played a pivotal role in the Emmy and Peabody-nominated series SECRET LIFE OF MUSLIMS, which challenged stereotypes and promoted inclusivity by sharing the stories of the Muslim American experience. He also contributed to the Emmy-nominated PBS digital series SELF-EVIDENT, showcasing real stories from everyday Americans during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Eric's creative vision extends to feature documentaries as well, including his collaboration on the development of HOW TO FIX A PRIMARY, a boundary-pushing film that follows the inspiring journey of Abdul El-Sayed, a courageous American Muslim doctor running for governor of Michigan.

Throughout his career, Eric has led impactful campaigns for esteemed institutions such as Dartmouth, Princeton, Caltech, Boston University, Columbia University, Duke University, University of Pennsylvania, and non-profits like Facing History and Ourselves. He has also collaborated with renowned brands such as Delta Air Lines, Lincoln Motor Company, Cadillac, adidas, Macy's, and Unilever, delivering compelling stories that define their purpose.

Eric graduated Cum Laude from Tufts University and further honed his skills at the American Film Institute (AFI).