Christopher Sharkey

BUSINESS DIRECTOR, HEMPEL PAINTS

What is your strategy to capitalize on the North Field expansion project, and what will be the status of the market once the latest wave of infrastructure development is over?

Our strategy is to move with the market. Once the major projects come to an end, then maintenance projects will start, which is already happening, for example, in Ras Laffan. There are also significant Qatar Gas projects ongoing to maintain gas production in the country. As a multifaceted business, we like to be close to the heart of the market in the hottest areas while keeping a long-term perspective. Now is the time to modify our approach and look more at maintenance projects and less at new developments.

What are the most innovative trends in the paints and coating industry?

We are constantly developing our digital platforms and have found COVID-19 to be a great driver of digitalization. For example, Hempel now has a platform called My Hempel for our B2B customers. They can place orders through our portal without the need to fill out a purchase order. With minimal human input, an order and the subsequent delivery can flow between companies, which customers greatly appreciate during the pandemic. Later, My Hempel sends an email to track the delivery. Qatar’s digital infrastructure facilitates the success of these initiatives. As Hempel looks to the future, we are constantly looking for ways in which digital innovation can support our business.