Press release submitted on behalf of RJG.
RJG is pleased to announce that Niiko Rautiola has been named the company’s next Chief Executive Officer, effective July 13. Rautiola joins RJG at an exciting time as the company continues to expand its leadership position in injection molding technology, accelerate autonomous molding initiatives, invest in AI-enabled manufacturing solutions, and bring new products and innovations to market.
Rautiola brings extensive experience leading global industrial organizations through growth, transformation, and innovation. Most recently, he served as Vice President and Chief Revenue Officer at Milacron, where he led commercial and aftermarket operations across the Americas and Europe. His background spans commercial leadership, manufacturing operations, product strategy, and customer-focused business development, making him uniquely positioned to help RJG continue expanding its technology ecosystem and strengthening strategic relationships across the plastics industry.
Prior to his role as Chief Revenue Officer, Rautiola served as General Manager of Milacron’s injection molding business for the Americas and Europe, overseeing product management, machinery sales, and manufacturing operations. Rautiola holds an Executive MBA in Global Leadership from the University of Houston and a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Michigan Technological University.
“We were looking for a leader who could help RJG build on the momentum we’ve created over the last several years,” said Mike Groleau, Interim CEO and Board Member at RJG. “Niiko brings a rare combination of industry expertise, commercial leadership, operational excellence, and cultural alignment. He understands where manufacturing is headed and shares our belief that technology, data, and people working together will continue transforming the plastics industry.”
Rautiola succeeds Rob Nugent, who is stepping down as CEO to pursue an opportunity that allows him to spend more time with family. During his tenure, Nugent helped position RJG for its next stage of growth by accelerating investment in technology and innovation, advancing the company’s vision for autonomous molding, and championing the development of solutions that will continue to shape the future of injection molding. “Rob helped create tremendous momentum for RJG,” said Groleau. “His leadership strengthened our organization, challenged us to think bigger, and positioned us to pursue some of the most exciting opportunities in our company’s history. We are grateful for his contributions and wish him and his family all the best in this next chapter.”
“RJG has built something truly unique within the injection molding industry,” said Rautiola. “The combination of technology, training, consulting, and deep process expertise has created an organization that is helping shape the future of manufacturing. I’m excited to join the team during this period of growth and innovation and look forward to working alongside our employees, clients, and partners as we continue expanding what’s possible for molders around the world.”
About RJG
For over 40 years, RJG has been an internationally recognized leader in injection molding training and technology. They provide custom, end-to-end solutions to help organizations transform their operations by increasing efficiency, reducing waste, and producing higher-quality products faster. RJG’s deep expertise in plastics enables them to deliver an unmatched customer experience through a unique combination of training, technology, and consulting. www.rjginc.com