PBN Leaders & Achievers Awards 2026
MATTHEW SEMONIK
Arnold Lumber Co. chief operating officer
Matthew Semonik knows a lot about leadership. He’s a former platoon leader in the U.S. Marines, had general manager roles, and has served for several years as chief operating officer of Arnold Lumber Co., a privately owned building materials supply company in South Kingstown that he joined more than a decade ago.
What’s his wisdom about leadership? “I learned you can’t be one type of leader all the time. Every situation is different. You have to adapt, take into account what motivates people and understand how you can help navigate obstacles,” Semonik said. He also believes leadership isn’t reserved for the C-suite. “My goal is to push decision-making to the lowest level possible. Develop people, empower people.”
Such thinking transformed the company’s culture. He’s proud of accolades like being named a Providence Business News Best Place to Work in Rhode Island for 2025 and 2026 and a Best Companies Group Best Place for Women to Work in 2025.
There’s also been transformation on the bottom line. Cost controls and growth initiatives contributed to the company nearly doubling its sales from 2015 to 2024, while significantly increasing net profits. Marketing shifts, including a branded YouTube channel, increased followers by 150%, and the company started a multifamily and commercial division last year.
“Our industry is male dominated. We are focused on diversifying the candidate pool, attracting more women. A diverse workforce leads to more innovation,” Semonik said. “Once we worked on our culture, we gained momentum. Over the last few years, 15-20 of our people were recognized by regional and national publications.”
Having the right players in place is essential amid fluctuating economics and tariffs. “It’s a delicate dance. It’s daunting when prices of materials are suddenly 30% higher,” he said.
But he’s optimistic, encouraged by the state working with industry associations on “common sense legislation” that benefits the industry.
When he’s not coming up with the next great idea, he’s fly fishing, kayaking or traveling. “I’ve been to 29 different countries. I learn everywhere I go,” Semonik said.
