At the heart of every project
Meet three of Hempel’s coating advisors delivering quality where it matters the most
Delivering consistent, high-quality coatings across the world requires more than advanced products, it depends on people who can navigate complexity, adapt to local conditions and build trusted relationships on site. At Hempel A/S, coating advisors play a critical role at the intersection of technical expertise and customer partnerships.
Whether working in dry docks, on vessels, or across large-scale industrial sites, coating advisors operate in dynamic environments where no two projects are the same. They bring structure to uncertainty, guide customers through critical decisions and ensure that quality is never compromised under pressure.
Consistency in a global environment
For Jude Blevins, the role is defined by variety and adaptability. “I’ve supported projects in the Bahamas, Jamaica, Dominican Republic, Mexico, China and across the US. The work is similar, but every shipyard is different.”
Each location has its own context, with different team experiences and local practices to consider. Success comes from being able to adjust quickly while keeping expectations aligned across teams. At the same time, external factors like weather can impact progress: “If it’s drizzling, we can adapt, but if the humidity is too high, there’s no painting.”
Despite these variables, maintaining quality remains the priority. As Jude emphasises, “Even when we’re pushed to keep production moving, I always make sure the quality is there.” This focus ensures smooth project delivery and long-term performance for customers.”
Building trust through transparency and expertise
Aleksandra Orent typically steps in as projects grow more complex, deadlines shorten and the stakes rise. In these moments, customers look for clarity and direction. As she explains, “Every project is different, but one thing is always true: customers rely on us to guide them through complex challenges.”
Finding the right solution is not always straightforward. It requires technical knowledge and the ability to evaluate real-world constraints. At times, this also means making necessary recommendations. “We have to give honest advice, even if it’s not what the customer wants to hear.”
That honesty is essential to building trust. By clearly outlining risks and consequences, Aleksandra ensures that customers can make informed decisions, even under pressure. She has seen how this approach translates into results. Reflecting on a major cruise ship project, she notes that success came “thanks to very good cooperation between everyone on site and by being transparent with the customer.”
Navigating complexity at scale
Tianyun Gu works in an environment where scale and expectations are high. Supporting customers in China, his role involves coordinating across large industrial sites and balancing different priorities. “Sometimes, there are differing views over technical issues and alignment may take time.”
In these situations, Tianyun’s role is to bridge the gap using expertise and communication to align stakeholders and move projects forward. This can be challenging, but also highly rewarding: “When we reach an agreement. It makes my day.”
Being present on site plays a key role in achieving this. It allows for faster decisions, clearer communication and stronger relationships with customers. As Tianyun explains, “Customers tell me that our presence is important. Being on-site makes a real difference.”
