News

Massillon, OH — We’re excited to officially welcome Nikki Matheny to the R2 Sealant Systems team as our new Controller! With decades of experience in accounting and manufacturing, Nikki brings both deep industry knowledge and a people-first mindset that fits right in with our culture.

A Strong Background in Manufacturing & Accounting

Nikki brings more than 30 years of experience in accounting, with a strong foundation in manufacturing. Over the years, she’s worked with companies such as Akro-Mils, dlhBOWLES, and ABC Technologies, steadily growing her career from Staff Accountant to Controller.

As Nikki shared, “My professional background in accounting is over 30 years. My background is strong in manufacturing, and I’ve worked my way up from Staff Accountant to Controller.” Her hands-on experience gives her a well-rounded perspective on both financial strategy and day-to-day operations.

Why R2 Sealant Systems?

Leadership and vision played a major role in Nikki’s decision to join R2. “The initial interview with Derek Miller is what attracted me at first to the role,” she explained. “The business that he has created and grown over the last two years shows his dedication to the company and to his employees.”

That commitment to growth and people is something Nikki values and is excited to support moving forward.

First Impressions of the Team & Facility

From day one, Nikki felt welcomed by the R2 team. “The R2 team was very welcoming and made me feel at home,” she said. She was also impressed by the facility, describing it as “state of the art” and noting that it reflects how much the team truly cares about the business and its success.

Leadership Philosophy: People First

When asked what makes a strong and efficient operations team, Nikki’s answer was simple and meaningful: “People are what make a strong and efficient operations team. You need the right people and the desire to make the company the best that it can be.”

She believes that safety, quality, and accountability all begin with proper training, and grow stronger when leaders truly listen. “Listening to the employees and their concerns and making changes is what helps shape the culture into what it needs to be,” Nikki shared.

Looking Ahead: Growth & Opportunity

Nikki is especially excited to work alongside the R2 team and learn more about sealant manufacturing. “The people and learning about the manufacturing of sealants is what excites me most about joining R2,” she said.

From an accounting perspective, Nikki sees opportunities to support R2’s continued growth by focusing on efficiency and accuracy. “Careful spending and making sure all aspects of accounting are accurate helps ensure the business is running efficiently,” she explained. With her background in cost accounting, she looks forward to contributing to both the business as a whole and the manufacturing process.

Life Outside of Work

Outside of work, Nikki enjoys spending time with her family. She and her husband, Mark, are now empty nesters and love taking weekend adventures together to unplug and enjoy time away from the everyday routine. They’re also eagerly awaiting an exciting new chapter – welcoming their first granddaughter in March 2026.

A Guiding Principle & Words of Advice

Nikki’s professional guiding principal centers on adding value and valuing people. “Make sure what you do adds value, not only for the company, but by valuing the people you work with,” she shared, emphasizing the importance of collaboration.

For those stepping into leadership roles in manufacturing, Nikki offers thoughtful advice: “Listen to your employees and try to make their work life meaningful. The employees are what make the company, and a good working culture will have a positive effect on the company.”

We’re thrilled to have Nikki as part of the R2 Sealant Systems team and look forward to the experience, insight, and leadership she brings. Welcome to R2, Nikki!