FlexTech Alliance, a developer of the flexible and printed electronics industry supply chain, announced today that Dr. Keith Rollins has been elected chairman of the Governing Board.  Dr. Rollins has more than 30 years of experience in the advanced materials and specialty chemical industries, and currently serves as Chief Innovation Officer at DuPont Teijin Films US Ltd.  He will serve a two year term, succeeding Dr. John Batey, formerly of Qualcomm MEMS Technologies, Inc., who was the consortium’s chairman since 2011.  

As FlexTech Alliance chairman, Rollins will lead the governing board and all FlexTech Alliance stakeholders to further the organization’s development, continue to build membership, and increase its value through the provision of quality business and technical services.  The chairman’s role is to guide the board as it oversees the consortium’s decisions on policy, program content, and disposition of funds available for sponsoring technology-related research and development projects. 

“We are grateful for John’s Batey’s leadership over the past two years and now warmly welcome Keith Rollins as our new chairman,” said FlexTech Alliance President Michael Ciesinski. “Keith has a tremendous background in emerging technology and in assessing new business opportunities.  Previously, he led the U.K.’s Plastic Electronics Strategy Group, which produced an outstanding report on the opportunities presented by this industry.  With an impressive technical background and an extensive set of business contacts, Keith is well-positioned to strengthen FlexTech’s worldwide outreach.”

Over the last few years, Dr. Rollins has focused on technology development, strategic planning and business development in the displays and flexible electronics industries. Currently, his focus is on the development and widespread use of the DuPont Teijin Films range of polyester PET and PEN materials in flexible displays and electronics applications. Dr. Rollins received his Bachelor of Technology degree with honors in Applied Chemistry in 1979 and his Doctorate in Catalysis Chemistry in 1985 from Brunel University in London, UK.

“Successful deployment of flexible, printed electronics requires a multi-disciplinary approach, spanning materials development to electronics fabrication to conventional printing techniques,” explained Dr. Rollins. “FlexTech Alliance plays a pivotal role in bringing these diverse industries together.  I am honored to represent the industry and look forward to expanding FlexTech’s programs and services.”