Barriau is an experienced senior innovation executive with Henkel Adhesives Technologies and Ecolab.

Emilie Barriau. (Source: Hempel)

As the next step on Hempel’s growth journey, Hempel welcomes Emilie Barriau as chief technology officer, a new position in the executive group management.

Innovation is a critical enabler of Hempel’s Double Impact strategy, and this new appointment ensures that innovation is more prominently featured at the highest level of the organization. The new technology executive vice president area comprises R&D, procurement and sustainability.

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

“This shift reflects our commitment to staying ahead of the curve and delivering unparalleled value to our customers,” said Michael Hansen, group president and CEO. “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,” added Hansen. “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.”

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