Employee Spotlight: Enrique Ochoa

Learn more about Enrique Ochoa's career journey as OEM Business Development Manager at Mincer HD...

1. As a relatively new recruit, how have you settled into life at Mincer?

It’s been just over a year now since I joined, and honestly, it’s flown by. From day one, things have been full speed — I was straight into the action! The past year has brought all kinds of challenges: FX rate volatility, tariff uncertainties, shifting market dynamics... all the fun stuff.

As well as the external factors that have made life slightly more challenging, the role itself relies heavily on existing relations and understanding the brake-component competitive landscape. So, as a new face, it was essential to clearly demonstrate the value Mincer offers, particularly through a focus on detailed customer service.

But it’s also been incredibly rewarding. One of the big wins was securing five new programs with Tier 1 and OEM customers — Brembo, Hitachi, Blue Bird, Bendix, and DDC. That kind of success is rare in such a short span, and it really speaks to the teamwork at Mincer. From engineering to production and quality, everyone pulled together. Being part of that effort and seeing those deals go from initial chats to signed contracts has been a highlight.

2. What's your background professionally? Have you always worked in the automotive industry?

My academic background is a mix of business and engineering. I started down the technical route with a Mechanical Engineering and Automotive Design Engineering degrees from ITESM, then later added an MBA from EGADE Business School. I’ve always believed in combining technical know-how with business sense.

I began my career in the automotive industry at Sistemas Automotrices de México (Quimmco Group & Cummins-Meritor JV), focusing on off-highway and commercial vehicles. My professional path has primarily involved business development and management within the automotive sector, including roles at Questum (Quimmco Group) and Mincer HD, both automotive dedicated foundries.

Yet, my background isn't exclusively automotive, I have experience in industrial project management, having led the implementation of an automated Brazil-nut processing facility in the Amazon rainforest. I also contributed to the aerospace industry at Monterrey Aerocluster, specialising in advanced manufacturing supplier development.

Beyond my professional roles, I've also taken the plunge into entrepreneurship. These weren't just side projects; they were immersive experiences that provided a real-world education in understanding the entire business lifecycle, from initial concept to the daily realities of operations, highlighting both the inherent challenges and the ultimate rewards of building something independently.

To sum up, this diverse experience provides me with a broad skillset applicable across today's dynamic environment.

3. What does a typical day look like for you?

Honestly? No two days are the same — and I love that. One day I could be deep in pricing strategy, the next working with engineering on a technical spec, or jumping on a call to troubleshoot a supply chain issue. I might have a plant tour with a prospective customer or be out traveling for meetings.

That constant variety, dealing with different people and challenges keeps things fresh. It also means I work closely with every department, which I really value. It’s definitely not a role where you get bored.

4. What keeps you motivated in your job and growing professionally?

From an individual point of view, I think a big motivation for me is the potential for growth and the variety this kind of work offers. I don't want to feel like I'm doing the same thing day in and day out. The opportunity to learn new skills, take on different projects, and expand my responsibilities is really appealing and keeps me engaged and motivated to grow professionally.

From a collaborative perspective, as mentioned before, I value contributing meaningfully to a team and achieving shared goals. For instance, when Mincer HD secures a new program, knowing that is the result of multidisciplinary teamwork and extensive negotiation; that sense of accomplishment definitely fuels my desire to keep learning and taking on new challenges.

5. If you weren't doing this job, what would you be doing?

A few years back, I was a candidate for the Yale School of Management. Unfortunately, financial limitations prevented me from pursuing that opportunity, but that kind of learning still really appeals to me.

Beyond core skills, education's value also lies in the connections you forge. Upper management programs, in particular, offer a strategic advantage, facilitating direct networking with influential decision-makers from diverse industries. These interactions build vital relationships, significantly broadening one's professional scope, and even uncovering potential collaborations. I’m very passionate about this aspect so having the opportunity to continue to invest in further education would probably be the route I would take. 

6. What keeps you busy outside of work?

I’m very family-focused. My wife is Cuban, and it’s impossible not to mention the distinct and wonderful character of Cuban culture, that brings a beautiful energy to our home, it really creates atmosphere which is full of laughter, joy and of course salsa music!

I'm also a dedicated grilling enthusiast, a passion deeply rooted in my extended time living in Monterrey, in northern Mexico. It was there that I truly embraced the tradition of “carne asada”, a culinary cornerstone of the region. This experience shaped my love for smoky flavors and a deep appreciation for the art of cooking over an open flame. Moreover, grilling, for me, is synonymous with being surrounded by friends and family.

7. What advice would you give to someone thinking about joining MFG?

MAT Foundry Group offers a real chance to shape innovation in the automotive space. If you’re thinking of joining, I’d say:

Understand the industry: The automotive industry is constantly evolving. Stay curious about new technologies, trends (like electric vehicles), and challenges in the automotive component manufacturing sector.

Embrace collaboration: Given MFG global structure and emphasis on teamwork, be prepared to collaborate with colleagues across different locations and departments. Strong communication and interpersonal skills will be highly valuable.

Be adaptable: Working in a global company often means interacting with different cultures and adapting to various work styles. An open and flexible mindset will help not only fosters smoother collaboration but also unlocks opportunities for personal growth and a broader understanding of the global business landscape.

7. Finally, if you could banish something (not someone!) into the furnace for eternity, what would it be and why?

If I could banish something to the furnace for eternity, it would be needless bureaucracy and red tape that slows down innovation and deal closure. In the fast-paced automotive industry, agility is key. Endless layers of approval and overly complex processes can stifle creativity, delay crucial partnerships, and ultimately hinder our ability to bring new solutions to market quickly. Eliminating this would allow us to be more responsive to customer needs and capitalize on emerging opportunities more effectively.

Want to follow in ENRIQUE's footsteps? Explore career opportunities across the MAT Group.