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AREA’s office is in Albuquerque, where our dedicated staff is ready to assist you.

Chad Matheson, CEcD

Interim President & CEO

Albuquerque Regional Economic Alliance (AREA)

Chad Matheson serves as Interim President & CEO and Senior Vice President of the Albuquerque Regional Economic Alliance (AREA), where he leads the execution of the organization’s strategic plan and advances initiatives designed to strengthen the Greater Albuquerque region’s long-term economic competitiveness.

A champion of modern, data-driven approaches to economic and community development, Chad is a recognized thought leader with deep expertise in regional economic strategy, labor market analysis, and opportunity identification. His work bridges research and execution, helping communities translate insight into measurable outcomes around job creation, talent alignment, and inclusive growth.

In recognition of his leadership and impact, Chad was named one of North America’s Top 50 Economic Developers in 2023 and New Mexico Economic Developer of the Year in 2024. He also earned the Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) designation in 2025 from the International Economic Development Council, the profession’s highest credential.

Prior to joining AREA, Chad led business intelligence for the Greater Memphis Chamber, where he helped launch the Center for Economic Competitiveness in partnership with the University of Memphis. Established in 2020, the Center used a rigorous, data-driven approach to co-create long-term job creation and talent development strategies with senior leaders and business executives. With a strong emphasis on equity and inclusion, this work reshaped regional conversations around growth by prioritizing job access, quality, and connectivity.

Earlier in his career, Chad directed business intelligence for the Hampton Roads Economic Development Alliance, where he served as a key member of the regional strategy team and supported the development and implementation of long-range growth initiatives.

Chad holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from Old Dominion University and joined the Greater Albuquerque community in February 2021. He lives in Albuquerque with his wife, Meghan, and their two daughters, Phoebe and Cheyenne.

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