DBusiness 30 in their Thirties

6/12/2023

by Mia Naylor

Birmingham, MI – Jose L. Flores was named to the 2023 DBusiness class of 30 in their Thirties, which recognizes young business professionals who are driving their industries forward.

When Flores became CEO of Ancor Automotive in Troy early last year, the company had a familiar client base.

“We’re a very traditional company that’s been doing the same thing for 40 years. I saw a lot of opportunity,” Flores says. “I’ve always liked working for small- to medium-sized companies because that’s where the change happens. You don’t have to go through a lot of layers to make things happen.”

And he was ready to make a change. As a young CEO, Flores says he faced a challenge leading older team members. He knew he needed to earn their respect, and he did so with results.

In the first four months, Flores helped acquire 6 new customers and develop two new products, which sparked new life into the company’s culture. Since then, he hasn’t slowed down.

“That boosted the morale of the company,” Flores says. “I’m a very energetic and dynamic leader. I’m always trying to find creative solutions to complex problems, and I do them in a fun approach, so people get excited and want to tackle it.”

His latest project was a software innovation hub that’s working to expand Ancor beyond VIN-specific label solutions.

“After 40 years of doing the same thing, we’re trying to break the status quo. I think the innovation hub is just the middle step for us to grow as a company,” Flores says. “I just want to get stuff done. I need to be working, because that’s part of the fun, and when you’re doing something you love, you don’t have to work a single day in your life.”
— Calli Newberry