Niiko Rautiola Assumes Top Job at RJG

RJG has a new leader.

Earlier this week (July 13), Niiko Rautiola moved into the corner office to succeed CEO Rob Nugent. Rautiola joins RJG as the company strives to expand its leadership position in injection molding technology, accelerate autonomous molding initiatives, invest in artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled manufacturing solutions, and bring new products and innovations to market. 

“We were looking for a leader who could help RJG build on the momentum we’ve created over the last several years,” RJG Interim CEO and board member Mike Groleau said. “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.” 

During Rautiola’s time with Caterpillar and Carrier, he led global teams through key growth, transformation, and innovation cycles. Most recently, he led Milacron’s Injection Molding businesses for the Americas and Europe. Rautiola’s background spans commercial leadership, manufacturing operations, strategy, and customer-focused business development, thus qualifying him to help RJG expand its technology ecosystem and strengthen strategic relationships in the plastics industry.

Rautiola earned an executive MBA in global leadership from the University of Houston and a bachelor of science degree in mechanical engineering from Michigan Technological University. 

“RJG has built something truly unique within the injection molding industry,” Rautiola commented. “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.” 

Rautiola’s predecessor stepped down as CEO in favor of 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,” Groleau stated. “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.” 
 
For more than 40 years, RJG has been an internationally recognized provider of injection molding training and technology. The company offers custom, end-to-end solutions to help organizations transform their operations by increasing efficiency, reducing waste, and producing higher-quality products faster.