Detroit, Michigan, February 5, 2026
Jim Anderson, founder and CEO of Urban Science, has retired after 49 years, appointing Tom Longo as his successor. Urban Science, a leading automotive consultancy, has prospered under Anderson’s leadership and aims to continue its innovative approach in the automotive industry under Longo. This leadership change is seen as a significant step for both Urban Science and the broader Detroit business landscape, marking a commitment to data-driven solutions in an evolving market.
Detroit, Michigan – Jim Anderson, the founder and CEO of Urban Science, has stepped down after 49 years at the helm, appointing Tom Longo as his successor. Anderson founded the company in 1977 to apply data-driven, scientific approaches to the automotive industry. Under his leadership, Urban Science expanded to serve nearly every automotive original equipment manufacturer (OEM) in over 70 countries, operating from 15 global offices.
Tom Longo, who has been with Urban Science for over 30 years, will now lead the company as President and CEO. Longo has held various leadership roles within the organization, contributing significantly to its growth and success. Urban Science is a global automotive consultancy and technology firm headquartered in Detroit, Michigan, specializing in providing data-driven solutions to automotive manufacturers and dealers, effectively optimizing their sales, service, and marketing strategies.
The leadership transition marks a new chapter for Urban Science, as Longo takes the reins to continue the company’s mission of delivering innovative, data-driven solutions to the automotive industry.
### Urban Science: A Legacy of Innovation
Urban Science represents a quintessential example of entrepreneurial innovation within the Detroit MI business landscape. Founded amidst the challenges of the 1970s, the company has demonstrated remarkable resilience and foresight. Under Anderson’s leadership, Urban Science not only survived but thrived over the decades, contributing significantly to the automotive industry’s evolution through data-driven methodologies. The firm’s success reflects the value of homegrown talent and visionary leadership in driving economic growth in the area.
### The Path Forward: Tom Longo’s Vision
As Tom Longo steps in as President and CEO, he brings over three decades of experience from within the organization. His tenure has equipped him with intimate knowledge of Urban Science’s operations and a deep understanding of the automotive landscape. Longo’s leadership will likely focus on harnessing newer technologies, data analytics, and artificial intelligence to strengthen partnerships with automotive manufacturers and dealers. The emphasis on innovation will be crucial as the industry navigates rapid changes, including electric vehicles and autonomous driving technologies.
### Continued Global Reach
Urban Science’s significant global footprint, with operations in 15 countries, showcases its importance as a key player in the automotive consultancy sector. This international presence positions the company to leverage diverse markets and adapt strategies that can enhance efficiency for automotive clients worldwide. The expertise accumulated over 49 years, combined with Longo’s forward-thinking approach, will be instrumental in maintaining Urban Science’s competitive advantage in the increasingly complex automotive industry.
### Emphasizing Data-Driven Solutions
At the core of Urban Science’s mission is the commitment to provide data-driven solutions. This approach enables automotive businesses to optimize their operations efficiently, a critical factor in today’s fast-paced market. As economic conditions fluctuate and consumer preferences evolve, the need for precise analytics and adaptive strategies only increases. Urban Science’s ongoing investments in technological advancements will empower clients to respond effectively to market dynamics.
### The Broader Impact on Detroit’s Economy
Urban Science’s growth and leadership transition are reflective of broader trends seen in Detroit, where entrepreneurial success stories are vital to the local economy. The company exemplifies how innovation can drive employment and contribute to community prosperity. By continuing to foster an environment conducive to entrepreneurship, Detroit can enhance its reputation as a hub for creative and technological advancement, further stimulating Wayne County’s economy.
### Conclusion: Looking to the Future
In summary, the transition of leadership at Urban Science signifies not just a change at the top but a commitment to continue fostering innovation within the automotive sector. As Tom Longo steps into his new role, the potential for growth and development within the company—and the wider Detroit MI business community—is promising. Supporting such resilient local enterprises is essential for the ongoing revitalization of Detroit’s economic landscape.
### FAQ Section
- Who is Jim Anderson?
- Jim Anderson is the founder and former CEO of Urban Science, a global automotive consultancy and technology firm headquartered in Detroit, Michigan. He founded the company in 1977 to apply data-driven, scientific approaches to the automotive industry. Under his leadership, Urban Science expanded to serve nearly every automotive original equipment manufacturer (OEM) in over 70 countries, operating from 15 global offices.
- Who is Tom Longo?
- Tom Longo is the new President and CEO of Urban Science. He has been with the company for over 30 years, holding various leadership roles and contributing significantly to its growth and success.
- What is Urban Science?
- Urban Science is a global automotive consultancy and technology firm headquartered in Detroit, Michigan. The company specializes in providing data-driven solutions to automotive manufacturers and dealers, helping them optimize their sales, service, and marketing strategies.
- What does the leadership transition mean for Urban Science?
- The leadership transition marks a new chapter for Urban Science, as Tom Longo takes the reins to continue the company’s mission of delivering innovative, data-driven solutions to the automotive industry.
| Key Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Company Name | Urban Science |
| Founder and Former CEO | Jim Anderson |
| New President and CEO | Tom Longo |
| Headquarters | Detroit, Michigan |
| Industry | Automotive Consultancy and Technology |
| Global Presence | Offices in 15 countries |
| Years in Operation | 49 years |
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DETROIT STAFF WRITER The DETROIT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDetroitMI.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Detroit, Wayne County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Movement Electronic Music Festival, Detroit Grand Prix, and America's Thanksgiving Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Detroit Regional Chamber and Focus HOPE, plus leading businesses in automotive and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors, Ford Motor Company, and Henry Ford Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
