Hielema Will Resign as New Mexico Chamber CEO
Leslie Hielema will step down from her position at the New Mexico Chamber of Commerce on October 31, 2026.
Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Quantum Computing
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Leslie Hielema will resign as president and CEO of the New Mexico Chamber of Commerce on October 31, 2026. She is stepping down after nearly two years in the role to move to Florida to be near her mother.
Why it matters
Hielema's departure comes as the state aggressively pursues a major role in the quantum computing industry. She has led the organization through significant growth and recent legislative sessions focused on industrial development.
The chamber reported a 300% increase in membership over the last fiscal year. This growth occurred as state lawmakers allocated $300 million to support the burgeoning quantum computing sector.
The players
Leslie Hielema
She is the outgoing president and CEO of the New Mexico Chamber of Commerce who has served in the role since 2025.
New Mexico Chamber of Commerce
This is a private, non-profit organization that represents business interests across the state of New Mexico.
Roadrunner Venture Studios
This investment group operates a $25 million quantum lab within the state to advance technological research.
Diraq
This company has announced plans to establish a research and development facility in the region.
The details
Hielema is currently assisting the board with the search for her replacement, with one candidate already interviewed and three additional interviews scheduled for this week. She provided the board with a two-month notice to ensure a smooth transition.
Timeline
January 2025: Leslie Hielema began her tenure as CEO.
2025 and 2026: Hielema managed chamber operations through two legislative sessions.
October 31, 2026: Hielema concludes her tenure.
Market Landscape
The transition occurs as New Mexico positions itself as a competitive hub for quantum technology against other national regions. The state is leveraging significant public funds to attract private entities like Diraq to build local R&D infrastructure.
Local business members and stakeholders should anticipate leadership changes at the chamber as it continues to manage quantum-focused economic development projects. The search process will determine the organization's future policy advocacy and support for regional tech firms.
The takeaway
The chamber is prioritizing a seamless transition by involving the outgoing CEO in the recruitment of her successor. This approach aims to maintain institutional continuity as the state continues its $1.5 billion investment path toward a quantum future.
What happens next
The New Mexico Chamber of Commerce board will conduct three additional interviews for the CEO successor role during the current week.
Further reading
For more on the state's technological initiatives, visit the Quantum Computing section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Abqjournal.
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