A new chapter begins for Viking Masek

Exciting times are ahead for Viking Masek!

After 22 years of hard work and incredible growth, owners Robb Leonhard and Scott Miller are stepping into the role of passive investors. This change marks the start of an exciting new era, with the company's seasoned executive team ready to take the reins to drive continued growth and success.

The Viking Masek story began more than two decades ago with the vision of two brothers, Rick and Robb Leonhard, who were passionate about equipment sales. A few years later, Scott Miller joined the company as VP of Product and Technology. He played a crucial role in driving innovation within the company and ensuring technological excellence.

From a small office with just a few employees, the ownership group built a company now recognized as a global leader in packaging automation. Today, Viking Masek has 109 dedicated team members and serves thousands of happy customers worldwide. Locally, it's recognized as a top manufacturer and one of the area’s leading employers.

Looking back on the journey, Robb Leonhard said, "We are incredibly proud of what we've built, and are confident that the executive team will continue to drive our mission forward with fresh energy and strategic insight."

"We are incredibly proud of what we've built, and are confident that the executive team will continue to drive our mission forward with fresh energy and strategic insight." - Robb Leonhard

Recognizing that fresh ideas and innovative minds are key to future growth, Robb and Scott have decided now's the perfect time to hand over leadership to their talented three-person executive team.

Viking Masek's Executive Team (from left): Ty Weinhold - COO, Nicole Piontek - CFO, Bryan Lacy - CRO

"We are excited to lead Viking Masek into its next phase," said Ty Weinhold, COO. "Our goal is to build on the solid foundation laid by the company’s founders and to explore new opportunities for growth and innovation. We are committed to delivering exceptional value to our customers, employees, and stakeholders."

With a combined 20 years of experience at Viking Masek, the executive team is poised to continue the company's decades-long trajectory of growth and success. The group will focus on 4 key areas:

1. New markets. On the heels of an exciting launch into the flow wrapping machine market, Viking Masek is investigating additional new product lines to provide a one-stop-shop experience to clients.
2. Customer satisfaction. Viking Masek will leverage innovative approaches and leading-edge technologies to deliver equipment support and service in new and dynamic ways.
3. Market innovation. Viking Masek will focus on their robust Research & Development department to continue to provide innovative packaging solutions that simplify packaging for their clients.
4. Growing a global presence. With business units across the globe, Viking Masek plans to leverage the strengths of regional locations to provide a unified customer experience to clients worldwide.

"I’m thrilled to be Viking Masek’s CFO at such a pivotal time,” said Nicole Piontek. "Our founders have established a robust financial foundation, and I look forward to building on that legacy. My focus will be on driving financial strategies that support our growth ambitions while ensuring sustainable and profitable operations."

Chief Revenue Officer Bryan Lacy is equally enthusiastic. "I am excited to work with such a talented team," he said. "My focus will be to create value for our clients and deliver exceptional customer experiences. Together we are prepared to win, leveraging technology and innovative approaches to deliver unparalleled service and satisfaction to our customers."

"Together we are prepared to win, leveraging technology and innovative approaches to deliver unparalleled service and satisfaction to our customers." - Bryan Lacy, CRO

Even as they step back, Robb and Scott will remain involved as passive investors, offering their support and guidance when needed. This shift shows their trust in the executive team to keep the company’s values and vision alive.

As Viking Masek moves forward, the company extends heartfelt thanks to Robb Leonhard and Scott Miller for their years of dedicated service and leadership. Their hard work has made Viking Masek a leader in packaging automation, and their ongoing advice will be invaluable in this exciting new chapter.

View full press release.