Neal Becker, Q2 LLC
In an ideal business world, one’s daily agenda consists of a carefully cultivated list of to-do items that, when attacked, produces an array of desired outcomes. But the reality of a given day tends to deviate from one’s plans, and becoming sidetracked by random requests or putting out small fires can be the frustrating norm.
With nearly 50 years in the industry under his belt, Neal Becker, the co-founder of Q2, doesn’t let the daily one-off tangents become a distraction. In fact, he embraces what others may view as annoyances and turns them into opportunities to underscore his primary objective.
“I was once told to be unselfish for selfish reasons,” explains Becker, a 2018 ENX Magazine Difference Maker. “Many days I find myself quite a bit off track trying to help my customers with random projects, like looking for an obscure part or talking over a business dilemma. I do not always see the immediate benefits from these activities. But in the end, being interruptible builds relationships and loyalty. And if I can help my customers become more profitable, it will benefit both of us.”
Becker can thank his brother for introducing him to the world of office copiers. When Don Becker returned home to Colorado after serving in the U.S. Army, he went to work for a Denver-based office technology dealership. When the company needed a technician, Don recommended his brother, Neal—then a 19-year-old college student—for the position.
Making the Rounds
That began what has been a 48-year journey for Becker, whose tours included a stint as a service manager for what was, at the time, one of the largest dealers in the nation. Becker then joined Katun Corp. and later became vice president of sales for the North American Business Unit. His signature move was the founding of Q2 LLC, along with Jane O’Brien and Joe Steinberg. (Just this summer, Q2 was acquired by CET Group.)
“I have had the opportunity to work for some highly successful companies, one being Q2,” Becker said. “And it was incredibly rewarding to be a part of and contribute toward those success stories. I have also enjoyed coaching individuals and seeing them succeed in their careers and aspirations.”
While Becker has witnessed many major, sometimes violent technology changes during his vast tenure, one of the most gratifying elements of his career remains unchanged, and that is the value of having good relationships with customers, employees and suppliers. Technology may bulldoze its way through the landscape, but the fundamental tenets behind enjoying long-term business success center on people.
Becker cites two major influences who have shaped him throughout the years. Don Fleet, the owner of the dealership where Becker debuted as a service tech, always stressed high quality and integrity while providing excellent value. Those are values that resonate with Becker to this day. Another impact player for Becker was T. Michael Clarke, a “larger than life” individual who was never complacent and worked tirelessly to improve and grow. Clarke always challenged his employees to reach their potential, while his vision and leadership impacted the landscape of the industry.
Ten Strong Years
Becker is proud of the fact that Q2 reached its 10-year anniversary in 2017, defying the odds for new business venture survival. “There have been some blood, sweat and tears, but we made it to this milestone and have been wildly successful in the meantime,” he said. “We also positioned Q2 to be a high integrity, profitable, marketable company concluding with the recent sale of Q2 to the CET Group. It feels good and the future is bright at Q2.”
As 2018 enters its final quarter, Becker will be focused on ensuring the transition with CET Group is both seamless and profitable for both ventures. He’s excited about the possibilities that will stem from the combination.
“I work continuously to grow and improve both myself and the business,” he concluded. “Specifically, I would like to improve the timeliness of bringing quality, cost savings products and services to my customers. Q2’s more formal relationship with CET Group will also help us improve in this area.”
Neal and Joan Becker enjoy a large family, with two children, six grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. The Beckers love taking in all the beauty that Colorado has to offer, and Neal is an avid Denver Broncos fan and season ticket holder who is eagerly awaiting the start of the 2018 season.
