Hempel appoints chief technology officer

This is a new position in the executive group management, which the company says is mean to highlight innovation more prominently at the highest level of the organisation. The technology executive vice president area comprises R&D, procurement and sustainability. 

Ms Barriau is an internationally experienced senior innovation executive who spent 15 years with Henkel Adhesives Technologies serving the transport, metals and electronics industries in various roles. In 2021, she joined Ecolab, where she lead the research, development and engineering organisation across the different businesses in Europe and IMEA. 

Over the coming months, Hempel said Ms Barriau will relocate to Denmark.

“This shift reflects our commitment to staying ahead of the curve and delivering unparalleled value to our customers,” said Hempel Group president and chief executive Michael Hansen.

“By elevating the role of innovation in our executive leadership, we aim to foster a culture where creative thinking and groundbreaking ideas thrive, ultimately propelling us towards delivering on our strategy, particularly within technology and sustainability leadership.”

“I am very excited to welcome Emilie to Hempel,” he added. “With her ability to connect with others, as well as her strong business acumen and unwavering customer focus, I believe she is a great fit for Hempel.”

Of her own appointment, Ms Barriau said, “I am excited to join Hempel as chief technology officer to elevate the mission of innovation in the organisation, uniting R&D, sustainability and procurement to accelerate our path to impactful sustainable solutions, together with our customers, suppliers and partners.” 

“Unleashing this potential, I see great opportunities for Hempel’s innovation to create greater value and lead with differentiated technologies, not only for our customers, but also for the coatings industry as a whole. Ultimately, our investment in this area will make for a more sustainable world.”