LYNGBY, Denmark — Global coatings company Hempel announced that Todd Cottrell will take over as the company’s new Group Vice President for North America. Hempel has a stated ambition to double in size over the next five years. Cottrell will be responsible for leading growth in line with this vision in Hempel’s important North American business.

Lars Petersson, Hempel Group President and CEO, said, “I’m very pleased to welcome Todd to the company. We have an ambitious growth strategy, which involves leading the industry in a number of areas – including customer-driven innovation and sustainability. A strong North American business is a key part of our vision, and Todd will help deliver the growth we need.”

Hempel is an important player on the North American coatings market, with a leading position in the wind tower industry and a growing business in many other areas, including infrastructure, rail and marine. Originally from Detroit, Cottrell will be responsible for further improving Hempel’s position in selected markets and industries in the region.

Cottrell said, “This is a very exciting time to join Hempel. The company has a great reputation in the industry in North America – for its excellent products and services, as well as its company culture. I’m very much looking forward to taking the company further in the region.” 

Cottrell has a track record of achieving significant results in the coatings industry. He has worked in the coatings, resins and pigments industries for more than 20 years in the United States, EMEA and Asia, in leadership positions in companies including PPG Industries, Kraton Polymers and Huntsman Corp.