Albuquerque Hispano Chamber CEO Ernie C'deBaca to Retire After 10 Years

C'deBaca plans to focus on family and promoting New Mexico in a new capacity after leading the local business organization.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 12:22am

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A high-end, photorealistic studio still-life photograph featuring a polished, geometric desk organizer made of brushed aluminum, symbolizing the organized and professional leadership of the Albuquerque Hispano Chamber of Commerce during a time of transition.As the Albuquerque Hispano Chamber of Commerce bids farewell to its longtime CEO, the organization's commitment to supporting local businesses and economic growth remains steadfast.Albuquerque Today

Ernie C'deBaca, the president and CEO of the Albuquerque Hispano Chamber of Commerce, announced he will be retiring after nearly 10 years of leading the local business organization. C'deBaca, 72, said the decision was not easy but that he wants to spend more time with his family. During his tenure, C'deBaca helped strengthen the chamber's foundation, deepen relationships across the business and community landscape, and advance its mission to support economic opportunity throughout the region.

Why it matters

The Hispano Chamber of Commerce is a vital organization in the Albuquerque community, providing advocacy, economic development, networking, and training resources to Hispanic and small businesses. C'deBaca's retirement marks the end of an era for the 50-year-old chamber, which has played a key role in supporting local entrepreneurs and businesses, especially during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The details

C'deBaca became the chamber's vice president of convention and tourism in 2016 after decades working for the Public Service Company of New Mexico. He previously served as a board member and chair, and was drawn to the organization's small-business work. C'deBaca stepped into the chamber's top role as CEO in 2017. During his tenure, he helped bring major events like the World Indigenous Business Forum and the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce's Energy Summit to New Mexico.

  • C'deBaca became the chamber's vice president in 2016.
  • C'deBaca was named CEO of the chamber in 2017.
  • C'deBaca plans to retire at the end of June 2026.

The players

Ernie C'deBaca

The president and CEO of the Albuquerque Hispano Chamber of Commerce, who is retiring after nearly 10 years of leading the local business organization.

Casey Anglada DeRaad

The chair of the Albuquerque Hispano Chamber of Commerce board, who expressed appreciation for C'deBaca's contributions to the organization.

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What they’re saying

“This is the best job. We bring in such amazing folks here to the chamber and to Albuquerque and New Mexico — it's really hard to give up a role like that. But at the same time, I'm 72 years old. I want to spend a little more time with my family.”

— Ernie C'deBaca, President and CEO, Albuquerque Hispano Chamber of Commerce

“During his tenure, he has helped strengthen the chamber's foundation, deepen relationships across the business and community landscape, and advance its mission to support economic opportunity throughout our region.”

— Casey Anglada DeRaad, Board Chair, Albuquerque Hispano Chamber of Commerce

What’s next

The Albuquerque Hispano Chamber of Commerce board said a search is underway for C'deBaca's successor. C'deBaca aims to step away from the role at the end of June 2026 but is flexible on the timing to ensure a smooth transition.

The takeaway

C'deBaca's retirement marks the end of an era for the 50-year-old Hispano Chamber of Commerce, which has played a vital role in supporting Hispanic and small businesses in the Albuquerque community. His successor will have the challenge of continuing the chamber's momentum and impact in the region.