Ignacio Duron is a Los Angeles-based business leader and CEO of Most Valuable Plumber. Growing up in North Hollywood, he was raised in a close-knit family where hard work, teamwork and responsibility were everyday expectations.
These early lessons shaped his approach to leadership and business.
Ignacio began his career practically in the plumbing trade, learning the work from scratch. Instead of jumping straight into management, he spent years understanding the realities of construction sites, customer needs and team dynamics. This experience later became the basis of his leadership style.
He then founded Most Valuable Plumber with his siblings and brother-in-law. Together, they built a family-owned business that serves communities throughout Los Angeles County, including Santa Monica, Beverly Hills and surrounding areas. Ignacio now oversees operations, team leadership and long-term planning while remaining closely connected to the day-to-day reality of trading.
In addition to running the company, Ignacio continued his education. He earned an associate’s degree in business administration and economics and is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in business law at Arizona State University.
Outside of work, Ignacio is heavily involved in youth sports. He coaches soccer, flag football and basketball, including his sons’ teams. He believes sport teaches discipline, confidence and leadership skills – skills that reflect the demands of business.
Ignacio’s career reflects steady growth, hands-on leadership and a strong commitment to both his industry and his community.
An Interview with Ignacio Duron: Building a Trade-Based Business
Q: Where did your career start?
I grew up in North Hollywood and my early life was filled with family and sports. This environment taught me discipline from an early age. At first I didn’t want a title. In the beginning, I wanted to work, learn and contribute.
Q: How did you first get into the plumbing industry?
I started practically on site. I learned on construction sites, fixed problems and understood how the trade actually works. This experience was important. You can’t lead people properly if you don’t understand the work they do every day.
Q: What motivated you to start your own company?
My siblings, my brother-in-law and I saw an opportunity to build something together. We shared values and trusted each other. We started small and focused on providing reliable work and treating our customers fairly. This consistency has helped us grow.
Q: How has the company developed since then?
We have expanded throughout Los Angeles County. Areas like Santa Monica and Beverly Hills emerged organically as word spread. Growth didn’t come from grand plans. It came from repeat customers and referrals.
Q: What is your role as CEO today?
I oversee operations, scheduling and team leadership. But I remain connected to the field. I believe that leadership should remain practical. When something breaks, I want to understand why.
Q: Why did you continue your education while running a business?
Education gives you a broader perspective. My associate’s degree in business administration and economics helped me understand how decisions impact the entire company. Studying business law now helps me to think more clearly about structure and responsibility.
Q: How does coaching youth sports relate to your work life?
Coaching teaches patience and communication. Children respond to consistency and example. This also applies to teams at work. The lessons are very similar.
Q: What do you value most as a leader?
Turn up. Hear. Do what you say. Leadership is not loud. It’s stable.
