New Mexico Chamber CEO Will Step Down in October
Leslie Hielema will resign from the New Mexico Chamber of Commerce after overseeing significant growth in state industry.
Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Quantum Computing
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Leslie Hielema has announced that she will step down as president and CEO of the New Mexico Chamber of Commerce on October 31, 2026. Hielema, who has served in the role since January 2025, is departing to move closer to her mother in Florida.
Why it matters
Hielema led the organization through a period of substantial expansion, with membership growing 300% during the last fiscal year. Her departure comes as the state aggressively invests in its quantum technology sector, targeting up to $1.5 billion in future commitments.
State lawmakers have already appropriated more than $300 million to develop the quantum industry in New Mexico. This foundational funding supports facilities like the $25 million quantum lab operated by Roadrunner Venture Studios.
The players
Leslie Hielema
The departing president and CEO of the New Mexico Chamber of Commerce who has held the position since early 2025.
New Mexico Chamber of Commerce
A state-wide business advocacy organization that recently experienced 300% membership growth.
Roadrunner Venture Studios
A venture studio firm that operates a $25 million quantum laboratory in New Mexico.
The details
The Chamber board has initiated a search for a new CEO and has already conducted one interview with a candidate, with three more scheduled for this week. Hielema provided a two-month notice to the board and is assisting with the transition process. She has led the organization through two legislative sessions since January 2025.
Timeline
January 2025: Leslie Hielema assumed the role of CEO.
October 31, 2026: Hielema concludes her tenure at the chamber.
The Tech Race
New Mexico is positioning itself as a hub for quantum technology, supported by $300 million in initial state appropriations and R&D moves from firms like Diraq. The Chamber's next leader will oversee the impact of the state's potential $1.5 billion long-term industry commitment.
Business owners and residents should watch for the board's announcement of a permanent successor in the coming weeks. The organization's future policy focus will likely remain tethered to the ongoing expansion of the state's quantum R&D sector.
The takeaway
Hielema leaves the chamber after a period of rapid growth, setting a high bar for the incoming leadership. Stakeholders should monitor the board's pending selection of a new CEO to understand the future direction of the chamber's legislative priorities.
Further reading
Read more about the state's technical trajectory in Quantum Computing.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Abqjournal.
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