Credit: Hempel

Hempel appointed Malgorzata “Gosha” Kolton executive vice president and head of Marine, effective Jan. 1, 2026. She will join Hempel’s Executive Group Management and lead the company’s global Marine business.

Kolton brings international experience in strategic and operational leadership across developed and emerging markets. She joins Hempel from Henkel Adhesive Technologies, where she served as EU vice president for packaging adhesives, coatings and sealants. In that role, she led one of Henkel’s largest regional businesses through volatile market conditions and multi-year transformations while delivering results across Europe.

“I am delighted to welcome Gosha to Hempel,” said Michael Hansen, group president and CEO. “Her international perspective, leadership experience and passion for innovation will be invaluable as we continue to strengthen our position in the marine coatings industry. Her commitment to building strong teams and customer-focused strategies will also help us deliver value for our stakeholders.”

“I am excited to join Hempel and the Marine team,” Kolton said. “I look forward to working together to deliver value for customers and drive sustainable growth.”

Kolton succeeds Alexander Enström, who chose to step down from the executive vice president role to focus on more specialized responsibilities. Effective Jan. 1, 2026, Enström becomes head of New Build in Marine. “The Executive Group Management, Board and I are deeply grateful for Alexander’s leadership,” Hansen said, noting his continued impact in the Marine organization.

Learn more in PCI’s marine coatings coverage.