IRVINE, CA – Henkel Corp. named the executive team that will lead its electronics group, following its acquisition of the Adhesives and Electronics Materials businesses from National Starch and Chemical Co.

Under the direction of corporate senior VP Alan Syzdek, the electronics group of Henkel will be organized on a global basis by industry sector.

Dr. Michael Todd will lead Henkel’s global product development initiatives as vice-president of product development and engineering, with more than 18 years’ materials development experience.

Former Ablestik general manager, Andreas Mader, has been tapped to head Henkel’s semiconductor group.

To direct its electronics assembly business, the company has selected former Emerson & Cuming general manager Joe DeBiase. DeBiase has more than 20 years’ experience in electronic materials for the PCB fabrication and electronic assembly industries. 

Rounding out the executive appointments is Doug Dixon, global marketing director.

Management of the operational organization is the responsibility of Dr. Michael Reilly, former National Starch vice-president of global operations.

Overseeing the development of the business is the role of Zhiwei Cai, former Henkel global vice-president of product management.

Other key appointments to the leadership team include Luc Godefroid, who heads the project management office, and Hilary Norris, who leads the company’s financial team.