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At Henkel, our commitment to advancing the Tissue & Towel (T&T) industry is fueled by the diverse expertise and real-world problem-solving skills of our technical team. Their impressive backgrounds span polymer chemistry, plant operations, process engineering, product development, and customer collaboration. With the wealth of knowledge and expertise this team holds, this enables us to deliver solutions that drive efficiency, reduce waste, and support our customers’ sustainability goals.
Below, meet four of the experts shaping innovation throughout the North American market.
Meet Sisi — Product Development Scientist
Since joining Henkel’s Product Development team in July 2023, Sisi has quickly become a key contributor in optimizing and enhancing adhesive materials designed for the T&T industry. With a strong foundation in polymer synthesis and microcapsule technology, she applies deep scientific rigor to advance materials that enhance both performance and environmental responsibility.
One of Sisi’s proudest achievements to date includes driving material improvements that contribute to reduced carbon emissions, supporting Henkel’s global sustainability goals.
Outside the lab, Sisi expresses her creativity through cooking, baking, gardening, and most recently learning to ski and snowboard, embracing the challenge of every new run.
Meet Jerry — Senior Technical Expert
With over three decades in water based adhesives, Jerry has shaped technical services and product development across paper converting, packaging, and construction markets. For the past 12 years, he has supported Henkel’s customers through audits, trials, process optimization, and cross-functional problem-solving, working closely with Key Account Managers to ensure the right solutions reach the right applications.
Jerry’s dedication has been recognized through multiple Henkel Excellence Awards, as well as a Supplier Sustainability Award for impactful process improvements and waste reduction initiatives. His work has helped customers reduce downtime, streamline production efficiency, and adopt more reliable and sustainable adhesive technologies.
A lifelong outdoorsman, Jerry enjoys fishing, fly-tying, cooking, cycling, and swimming. He and his wife Carol married 32 years, love exploring Central Florida’s hidden gems through weekend adventures.
Meet Kris — Application Engineer
With 21+ years in the Tissue & Towel industry, Kris Pignone brings unparalleled operational experience, from starting on the production floor to becoming a Plant Manager and Production Manager. His background in machine operation, maintenance, and converting line installation/commissioning gives him a real-world perspective few can match.
Since joining Henkel in 2022, Kris has been instrumental in supporting customers through product recommendations, lab testing, process evaluations, and the development of sustainable adhesive solutions. He also plays a key role in rebuilding relationships with OEMs, ensuring collaboration that benefits customers across the entire converting line.
Outside of work, Kris embraces the outdoors through hunting and fishing—and adds a creative twist as the bass player for the band Cluster Funk.
Meet Alexis — Product Development Manager
Since joining Henkel in 2013, Alexis has built deep expertise across water‑based and hot melt adhesive technologies through roles in product development, application engineering, and process optimization. Now serving as Water Based Product Development Manager, she brings a rare combination of chemistry knowledge, hands‑on adhesive formulation experience, and deep insight into how adhesives interact with diverse paper substrates. Her background in forensic chemistry strengthens her analytical mindset, enabling her to diagnose challenges, optimize cost‑performance, and think creatively across technologies and application systems.
Throughout her career, she has led several high‑impact, sustainability‑driven innovations including the EPIX curbside‑recyclable padded mailer and double‑wallpaper hot cups, and holds multiple patents for her contributions. Known for her collaborative approach, she draws on a broad technical network to support customers and accelerate successful project outcomes. Outside of work, she enjoys traveling, hiking, cooking, and has visited all 50 U.S. states with her husband.
